Orphan Elephants

Joachim Schmeisser's sensitive images capture the lives of orphaned elephants in the sanctuary of Kenya's David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

The unique and deeply evocative series turned into a labour of love for the photographer, given that these gentle giants have never been under more acute threat than now. Ivory trade has reached new proportions, and if we do not act quickly, the extinction of elephants from the wild is imminent.

With these images, the photographer seeks to jolt us into awareness, touch our hearts and encourage us to rediscover a true appreciation for the natural diversity and beauty of our world. "Every one of these little elephants has their own personality. To capture this, and to try and make their soul visible and palpable, was my aim and my biggest challenge."

In 2012, the project was honoured with the prestigious Hasselblad Master Award.

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