Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Land of Dragons

This was taken in Komodo National Park, using a wireless remote. We trekked up into the hills on Komodo Island until we spotted a big dragon moving around in the distance. Most of the dragons we saw were pretty inactive, so seeing one up and about was quite exciting. Once we got close enough, I used a modified pole with the camera attached, my ranger right by my side with his trusty stick. The dragon seemed curious, but not in an aggressive, frenzied way. He continued to go up to the camera, flicking his tongue to smell the lens. It was quite exciting!

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 05.2024
Date Uploaded: 11.2024
Photo Location: Labuan Bajo, Indonesia
Camera: Canon EOS R5
Copyright: © LEIGHTON LUM
Awards
Finalist