Irish photographer Peter Delaney has been entranced by African elephants since 2001, capturing their majestic presence through his lens.

Delaney, 49, finds a unique allure in observing these creatures in their natural habitats, describing the experience as magical.

His images not only portray the grandeur of elephants but also offer glimpses into the intricacies of their lives, showcasing the beauty of the animal kingdom.

Delaney’s photographic journey has taken him to various locations across Africa, including the lush landscapes of Etosha National Park in Namibia.

Here, he captured a line of majestic elephants traversing through the verdant vegetation, illustrating the harmony between these creatures and their environment.

In South Africa’s Addo Elephant National Park, Delaney witnessed the strong bonds and emotional range displayed by elephants.

His images depict moments of tenderness, such as a protective mother shielding her calf and instances of playful curiosity embodied by a young elephant exploring its surroundings.

Reflecting on his encounters, Delaney emphasizes the similarities between elephants and humans, noting their capacity for forming lasting relationships and experiencing a spectrum of emotions.

His deep connection with these animals led him to pursue wildlife photography professionally, earning him accolades such as the Wildlife Photographer of the Year title three times.

Delaney’s preferred medium, black and white photography, adds a timeless quality to his work, allowing him to highlight contrasts and textures that evoke a sense of depth and emotion.

Through his images, he captures the physical beauty of elephants and the essence of their existence.

As Delaney prepares for his next photography expedition to Tanzania, he eagerly anticipates capturing the grace and power of Africa’s big tusker elephants.

His goal remains to create images that resonate deeply with viewers, transcending mere documentation to become works of art that stir the soul.