Life As Art

For the Love of Fine Art

Photography: Elephants

Several criteria define what makes a photograph compelling. Photographer David Yarrow believes it hinges on how long people can gaze at an image. Three photographers who excel in wildlife photography—particularly in capturing elephants—are David Yarrow, Nick Brandt, and Chris Fallows. Their photographic styles differ, notably in their choice of angles.

David Yarrow primarily uses low angles, focusing on individual elephants or small groups. Nick Brandt, on the other hand, opts for higher or direct, eye-level shots. Chris Fallows favors an extremely low angle and wide shots, using remote cameras in protective housings to immerse himself among the herds. Despite their differences, all three photographers produce stunning black and white photography. They share a commitment to giving back to remote communities and conservation efforts, raising awareness, enhancing the beauty of the world, and protecting elephants.

Amboseli, Kenya, known for its large elephants, is a prime location for capturing wildlife and, particularly, breathtaking elephant photography. David Yarrow is notable for his openness about his techniques. He suggests that the best photographs of elephants (and other wildlife) are taken from approximately two yards away, using close, low, and wide angles. Often, photographers can only approach within 50 yards of an animal without causing distress. Thus, the use of remotely operated cameras in shielded boxes positioned at a lower elevation than the animals is crucial. Elephants, interestingly, tend to walk in straight lines, making predictable paths a key to powerful photography. Yarrow emphasizes that access (being in the right place at the right time), along with passion and intellect, is vital. “If a photograph isn’t good enough, it’s because you’re not close enough,” he asserts.

A little-discussed aspect of photography is that for every 200 shots taken, perhaps only three—if you’re lucky—will be exceptional and stand the test of time. This revelation highlights that success in photography is largely about embracing failure.

Highlighted Works:

• David Yarrow: “Photograph Africa 2018,” In Focus, exhibit

• Chris Fallows: “15 Majestic Elephant Photography Works”

• Nick Brandt: “Big Pictures, Shrinking World”

An iconic photograph worth mentioning, which is staged and fashion-based rather than captured in the wild, is Richard Avedon’s 1955 work, Dovima With Elephants, Evening Dress by Dior, Cirque d’Hiver, Paris. Featuring a statuesque model in an evening gown posed dramatically before a group of elephants, it was published in the September 1955 issue of Harper’s Bazaar. The image swiftly became a hallmark of both fashion and photography history.

Fine art photography, especially when centered around the majestic elephant, reveals an insightful intersection of art, nature, and conservation. The dedication of photographers like David Yarrow, Nick Brandt, and Chris Fallows illuminates not only the raw beauty of these magnificent creatures but also the critical importance of preserving their habitats. Meanwhile, iconic works such as Richard Avedon’s fashion-oriented Dovima With Elephants reveals to us of photography’s power and its unique capability to capture and convey the essence of life in all its forms that truly defines photography as an art form.