Neck-To-Neck

I have always enjoyed photographing giraffes, they have such an awkward charm about them and that awkwardness makes photographing them great fun, and at times, a great challenge.

I’ve spent many hours researching their unique evolution, and that unmistakable neck – it obviously gives them a real advantage being able to graze both high and low, but it also plays an important part in the quest for dominance.

Male giraffes will intensely swing their necks at each other to fight for dominance and territory, in bouts that can often last for several minutes and sometimes result in serious injury. It is a behaviour that I have always wanted to witness for myself after watching it on television as a youngster.

I finally witnessed the remarkable behaviour for myself recently, and it sent shivers down my spine. I hope the photograph manages to exude some of the drama that was in the air that day.