They get really close

[Krawuntzel]

Last july on a safari to Katavi National parc in Tanzania we had a close encounter with a lion pride (2 males, 4 females, 4 cubs). They came from drinking in the river towards our car - and stayed for 2,5 hours in the shade of the car. So we had the privilege to observe and photograph from very close. Two of the portraits I like to share.
1) dominant male



2) Lioness



It was a great morning
Erwin

[JohnRostron]

Lucky you! And two great pictures. Is that your reflection in the lioness's eyes?

John

[NorthernFocus]

What an awesome experience that must have been. It is really a priveledge when we get opportunities to share space with wild creatures. Both male and female must be veterans of many conflicts. They have the scars to show for it. Nicely done.

[Shadowman]

Nice captures.

[IzzieK]

Your experience might be sooooooo exciting having them so close, but I sure like to photograph them in the zoo instead...my old legs will not be able to cope with running just in case I needed to get away.......sooooooooooo far away in a jiffy...

[Mike Buckley]

I really like the color, composition and intimacy of the second photo. However, the depth of field leaves the eyes a little out of focus. (Notice how sharp the mouth and nose are; not so for the eyes.) I think increased sharpening will work on at least the near eye and surrounding area without adding artifacts.

[Krawuntzel]

I really like the color, composition and intimacy of the second photo. However, the depth of field leaves the eyes a little out of focus. (Notice how sharp the mouth and nose are; not so for the eyes.) I think increased sharpening will work on at least the near eye and surrounding area without adding artifacts.

Thank you Mike, Izzie, John, Dan and John for the comments.
@ Mike: I am still struggling with the right amount of sharpening after downsizing; in the original the left eye is sharp.
@ Izzie: Running (out of the car) would be the worst option
@ John: in the eye of the lioness there is the reflection of our safari car; can only be seen in the original

[Bobobird]

Lucky you. Nothing like close for the best details as seen here. Cool...