Dear Wildlife Enthusiast,
I hope this Journal Entry finds you well and ready for your next adventure! As many of you know, my passion for wildlife and photography has taken me to some incredible places, leading me, and my little family, on some seriously wonderful adventures.
My recent trip to SUJAN Sher Bagh in the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve in India truly left us all in awe.
On October 1st, I had the privilege of joining my family on the very first day of the central zones' opening- the start of the new Tiger Season. The anticipation in the air was palpable as we set out at dawn, the golden light filtering through the trees. The energy was electric! It was a particularly special moment for us, as my two little adventurers—Leo, just 2 years old, and Kipling, only 5 months—were experiencing the magic of Ranthambhore for the first time. Having lived in South Africa, Kenya, and now India, we’re dedicated to raising our children in the most authentic way possible, exposing them to the beauty and wonder of the world.
When the magnificent tiger emerged from the thick green foliage, it felt like a dream come true. However, amidst the collective gasp from our vehicle, there was Leo, enthusiastically shouting, “Look! A leopard! A leopard!” over and over! His adorable confidence in identifying wildlife made the moment all the more entertaining—and heartwarming, even if it was a little off the mark!
But the adventure didn’t stop there. Just as we were marvelling at the sight of the tiger, Kipling decided it was the perfect moment for a nappy change! Picture this: my wife and I balancing the excitement of a tiger sighting with the urgency of a mid-safari nappy change. Thankfully Diana is an absolute magician with changing nappies (in the most trying of locations), and we managed to pull off a quick change without missing a beat. Kipling may not have been impressed by the tiger, but he sure appreciated the fresh underwear!
Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve is not just a haven for tigers; it is a vibrant tapestry of life and history. Iconic Banyan trees stretch their sprawling limbs across the landscape, providing shade and habitat for countless species. The reserve boasts a rich cultural history, with the majestic Ranthambhore Fort standing as a sentinel over the land, and numerous spiritual shrines and temples dotting the terrain. After the monsoon season, the park has transfored into a breathtaking canvas of electric green, making every safari drive a feast for the eyes. Each visit unveils new surprises, whether it’s the regal way a tiger walks through the grasslands or the playful behavior of cubs, reminding us why these incredible animals are worth protecting.
On another exciting note, I want to share that October 9th marks the launch of Remembering Tigers, a coffee table book that is part of the Remembering Wildlife series. Our collective mission is to create the most beautiful books on a species ever made, raising awareness of the plight facing these incredible animals and generating funds to protect them. I am incredibly proud to have contributed to this year’s book, featuring one of my photographs of a tiger inside the historic Rajbagh Palace. This stunning structure, built during the Mughal era in the late 15th and early 16th centuries under Akbar’s rule, adds a touch of rich history to the breathtaking scenery. I’m honored to have my work showcased alongside stunning images donated by some of the world’s best wildlife photographers, including Steve Winter, Art Wolfe, and Frans Lanting. Each book sold directly supports vital tiger conservation projects, making it a beautiful way to appreciate these majestic creatures while actively contributing to their protection.
For those of you who are eager to explore India and experience the thrill of spotting a tiger firsthand, I am here to help you turn that dream into reality. Whether it’s planning a trip to Ranthambhore or discovering other stunning wildlife locations, I can guide you in crafting an unforgettable journey. The thrill of hearing a tiger’s roar, witnessing its grace in the wild, and capturing it through your lens is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm for wildlife photography.
Together, let’s keep the spirit of adventure alive!
Warm Regards,
Adam, Diana, Leo and Kipling Bannister
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