A Photographic Expedition with Dr. Paul Booyens into the Heart of Lion Conservation

An Invitation to Adventure

When I received a message from Dr. Paul Booyens, a renowned wildlife reserve manager and researcher in South Africa, I knew I had been presented with a rare opportunity. Here was a man at the forefront of lion conservation, inviting me to combine my twin passions: photography and wildlife conservationDr. Booyens and I embarked on a photographic journey with dual goals: to produce fine art prints that capture the majesty of these creatures, and to supplement his upcoming book: Released: From Captive-Bred to Truly Wild, with images that would make both a visual and intellectual impact.

Days and Nights Among the Lions

Our mission was no walk in the park. Days began before the crack of dawn, tracking lions by car and on foot. It was both freezing cold in the night and mornings, and baking in the midday heat, but I will never forget our amazing encounters, bushwhacking, and conversations deep in the wilderness. We sometimes found ourselves heart-pounding five meters away from these magnificent creatures—close enough to see the intensity in their eyes and the texture of their manes.

The Book: “Released: Captive-bred to Truly Wild”

The project has culminated in an insightful book that serves as a comprehensive study of reintroducing captive-bred African lions into a private wildlife reserve in South Africa’s Limpopo Province.

Dr. Booyens’s research offers a pioneering look into the behaviors and adaptive capabilities of reintroduced lions. He documented five critical success factors for lion reintroduction: social group formation, self-sustaining abilities, successful reproduction, effective hunting and social teaching, and the suitability of these lions for future reintroduction efforts.

The book doesn’t just stop at dry facts. It’s enriched with compelling visuals, taken by both Dr. Booyens and myself. These visuals help to transform Released: Captive-Bred to Truly Wild into not only a scientific treasure but also a feast for the eyes—a perfect coffee table book that could grace the spaces of lodges, homes, or offices.

The Fine Art Prints: Framed Stories

As we approach the book’s grand unveiling at the WRSA Gala this October 2023, we have prepared something unique—a collection of photographic prints that encapsulate the lions’ extraordinary stories.

Each print is produced on fine art paper and framed in custom African wood, encased in glass to preserve the raw essence of the African wild. I’m also pleased to offer complimentary interior design consultations to ensure these prints fit seamlessly into your setting.

So whether you’re a lodge owner or a wildlife enthusiast, these prints offer not just aesthetic appeal but also serve as conversation starters about the importance of wildlife conservation.

This project goes beyond the frames and pages; it is a narrative of resilience, adaptability, and survival. Released: Captive-bred to Truly Wild is an essential read for conservationists, animal lovers, and anyone intrigued by the delicate balance between humans, animals, and our shared environment. And if you’re interested in owning a piece of this epic journey, our fine art prints are waiting to adorn your walls and spark conversations about conservation.

Visit https://plbforlions.org to pre-order the book and purchase a print. We are doing custom domestic and international fulfillment. Send me a message at info@mosquitomedia.co for any questions.

Until the next adventure,

Wiki West