Lars Beusker b. 1973
Shazam, 2021
Handmade black lacquered wooden frames, museum glass, Hahnemühle baryta paper
146 x 126 cm
If I want to photograph an animal for the second time, I naturally have the claim that it will be in no way inferior to my first published image. I...
If I want to photograph an animal for the second time, I naturally have the claim that it will be in no way inferior to my first published image. I have described many times how difficult it is to photograph a leopard - this animal is so uniquely fast, always restless, never resting, and always on the lookout for prey or watching for danger from lions. In January, I had the privilege of working with Kevin Richardson for the 2nd time - the famous animal conservationist is known for his incessant work with wild animals with the sole purpose of bringing the world's attention to the extinction of endangered species. Only with Kevin's help I managed to take an extraordinary picture of a black panther, a young savage running straight towards me. He deserves the name Shazam, because as the old wizard (Djimon Hounsou) who gives Billy his powers explains in "Shazam!", the name stands for the wisdom of Solomon, the strength of Hercules, the endurance of Atlas, the power of Zeus, the courage of Achilles and the speed of Mercury. Thank you, Kevin!