14th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
"Ithemba". The Xhosa word for "hope".

While volunteering at African Elephant Research Unit I was able to focus on and capture the features of the elephants. Eyes, skin, tusks, ears are unique to each elephant. The rate at which they are hunted for ivory and human gain is a harsh reality. Therefore "Ithemba" seems a fitting thought and therefore, title for this image.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 10.2014
Date Uploaded: 06.2016
Photo Location: Knysna, South Africa
Camera: Canon PowerShot SX40 HS
Copyright: © gayle mastromonico