On This Earth: Photographs from East Africa

On This Earth: Photographs from East Africa by Nick Brandt is a stunning photographic book. When you think of Africa and the animals that inhabit Africa you think of the bold deep colors but Mr. Brandt has decided to go in another direction, this entire book is done in black and white and tinted black and white. It’s a gutsy move to be sure but one that is Mr. Brandt pulled off along with the help of some selective focus, vignette and stunning images.

Some of the coolest aspects of his photography is the fact that Nick does not shoot with a large telephoto, rather it seems he is patient and works for the shots he wants and gets close to lots of the animals he shoots. It’s a rare bread of photographer that does not just travel the wilderness with a 500mm lens and shoot from the comfort of a jeep or truck. He gets close to the animals to show us how they live and to show us how to actually see these animals.

There is not much printed word in this book but what is there has meaning, I skipped it initially only to go back and read it a few times later. I felt I had to read it a few times to get the full meaning of what was being said, it’s not a difficult read rather you have to read it a few times to really get what they are saying. These animals such as they are deserve to be able to live in peace and have more to teach us then we give them credit for. Take this line from Nick

I panned my camera across this epic sight, looking for something to meaningfully frame. But it was utterly futile. I never even clicked the shutter.

To me as a photographer at least it talks more about his style of shooting and love for the animals then just about anything else he could have said. This is a great book and something I would recommend to anyone.

Pick up your copy at Amazon