Adam Lees Photography

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The Best of Zambia : The Best of Zambia - Central, Western and North-Western Provinces

The Best of Zambia

Namibia Desert Landscapes : There is no place on earth like the red and brown sands of the Namib Desert. The contrasts, colours and shifting sands are a photographer's dream especially with a bird's eye view from a helicopter (it certainly is not cheap). You never know what is waiting for you over the next sand dune. Some photos of the rustic and quaint old German town of Swakopmund are also included.

Namibia Desert Landscapes

Namibia - Himba Tribe : The Himba are a nomadic people located around Opuwo in the North of Namibia and in the Southern areas of Angola. I spent the morning photgraphing a Himba tribe near Kamanjab.

Namibia - Himba Tribe

Gabon : Gabon in Central Africa is arguably Africa's best kept secret. Home to a range of rare forest species including gorillas, chimpanzees and pygmy elephants. Gabon is the Africa's fifth least densely populated country – and is 85 per cent covered in tropical forest. This, along with savannahs, mangroves, lagoons and beaches makes it an ideal habitat for varied species of animals and reptiles including 20,000 western lowland gorillas and 60,000 forest elephants – the largest population in Africa – and 700 types of exotic birds (thanks Wikipedia). I managed to take an excursion to Loango National Park and Evengue. The light conditions at the time were horrible and challenging in every way. It was either overcast, grey, overly-bright or raining. Enjoy!

Ethiopia's Orthodox Christian Heritage : The Lonely Planet description for Ethiopia is spot on. Wade through incense into a medieval world hewn from stone in Lalibela, and watch the line between past and present blur while taking part in striking Christian ceremonies that haven’t changed in 1000 years. Ethiopia’s storied and sovereign history has left its wide-ranging and fertile highlands laden with historical treasures, ranging from the ancient tombs and obelisks of Aksum to 17th-century castles and burnt-out Russian tanks. Truly amazing. A place everyone should visit in their lifetime.

Ethiopia's Orthodox Christian Heritage

Ethiopia - Tribes & Markets of the Lower Omo Valley : Ethiopia's Lower Omo Valley is home to some of Africa's most fascinating tribal groups. Many of the cultural traditions and customs from this area are fast disappearing as the modern world takes hold. The weekly markets are a rich source for photography. These markets are not a tourist event - in fact tourists are the minority. Most people do not like having their photo taken. Stealth is required and this is where a good telephoto lens comes in handy. I also prefer to catch people going about their daily business. It makes for a more interesting photo. The only HUGE downside to visiting the Omo Valley is the fact that most people are quite forceful in demanding money for photos. It is terribly over-commercialised. Some people are even ruthless enough to charge 'per click' of the camera. Some tourists give up in exasperation and don't take photos at all because it ruins the experience for them. Taking photos in some areas was just not worth the hassle. I managed to get a nice shot of a naked man with some interesting scarification patterns, however the shot was ruined by the fistful of cash he had received from previous visitors. I didn't notice it until after the fact!!!! If that doesn't get you, the constant requests by children for 'sweets' and "bon-bons" will. Sadly, some people don't believe in responsible tourism and throw lollies at children as their car goes by. It is not uncommon for local children to chase vehicles screaming "lollies" or for people just to stick their hands out as you drive by. It really does detract from what should be an amazing experience. Great photos nonetheless.

Ethiopia - Tribes & Markets of the Lower Omo Valley

Ethiopia - General Shots : Some general shots of Ethiopia including Simien National Park, Shashamene (home of the Rastafarian movement) and others.

Ethiopia - General Shots

São Tomé & Principe : Want a beautiful island destination most people have never heard of or will ever visit? Then São Tomé is the place to be. São Tomé was founded by Portugal in 1485. The Portuguese came to São Tomé in search of land to grow sugar. The island was uninhabited before the arrival of the Portuguese sometime around 1470. São Tomé was right on the equator and wet enough to grow sugar in wild abundance. Rustic and charming aptly descibe the beauty of this island group.

São Tomé & Principe

Zanzibar - A Morning at the Fish Markets : The Zanzibar fish markets attract a large crowd each morning as hundreds of people jostle and cajole to buy the fresh daily catch from the Indian Ocean. Locals line the waters edge often arriving before the crack of dawn. Tensions are high as people compete for limited quantities of fish on sale that day. This is a serious business. Young men jump into the water and swim to the boats with large buckets to be the first to buy the fish wholesale from the boats.

Zanzibar - A Morning at the Fish Markets

Zanzibar, The Spice Islands : The impossibly exotic, balmy Zanzibar off the coast of Tanzania. The capital of Zanzibar, located on the island of Unguja, is Zanzibar City, and its historic center, known as Stone Town, is a World Heritage Site. Zanzibar's main industries are spices, raffia, and tourism. In particular, the islands produce cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and pepper. For this reason, the islands, together with Tanzania's Mafia Island, are sometimes called the Spice Islands. Sit back, sip on a spicy tea or a pina colada and watch the charming old boats with their triangular sails float on by.

Zanzibar, The Spice Islands

Somaliland - Somalia : According to the Lonely Planet, Somaliland represents the "holy grail" for independent travellers who prefer an adventure off the beaten track. It is about as close to "Somalia" as most travellers will come. Somaliland is a self-proclaimed independent state of Somalia but is not recognised by the international community. Technically, it is still Somalia but lies in a state of limbo as Somalilanders push ahead for international recognition. Somaliland has its own currency and Government and is a model of stability in the war-torn Somali region. The capital, Hargeisa, is a short flight from the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa. It is not possible to travel alone outside the capital. Visitors must be escorted by mahcine-gun garrying police. Somaliland offers many hidden gems including the chance to be one of a handful of people to see some of the most magnificently preserved (and recently discovered) rock art paintings in the world. I enjoyed my time here enormously. I also tried a big fat camel steak with fries and salad at dinner one night. Very tasty. Somali hospitality is outstanding and the people generally warm and welcoming.

Somaliland - Somalia

Djibouti-licious : Djibouti is sanwiched between Somalia, Ethiopia and Eritrea. This is where the Planet of the Apes was filmed. Regrettably there was not much happening when I went there. It was Ramadan and the humidity was stifling. Was a nice place to chill before moving on to Somaliland.

Djibouti-licious

A Life Behind Bars - Captive Animals of Cameroon : There is nothing more depressing than the sight of some of Africa's most majestic animals either stuck or pacing behind bars and electric fences. The Wildlife Santuary at Limbe, Cameroon is home to one of the world's largest captive primate populations. The Sanctuary has rescued many animals from the hands of poachers and some local homes. Sadly, once habituated the primates cannot be released back into the wild. Other animals including lions, spotted hyaena and African birds face a similar fate at the Yaounde Zoo. I hope this album captures the sombre mood.

A Life Behind Bars - Captive Animals of Cameroon

By the Side of the Road : A good photo opportunity can happen anywhere, anytime. In this case by the side of the road outside Port Elizabeth, South Africa.

By the Side of the Road

Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe : The Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders) is a waterfall located in southern Africa on the Zambezi River between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The falls are some of the largest in the world. They are also touted as one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Photos taken on the Zimbabwe side.

Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe

Chobe National Park - Botswana : Elephants, elephants and more elephants. Chobe National Park, in northwest Botswana, has one of the largest game concentration in Africa continent. By size, this is the third largest park of the country, after the Central Kalahari Game Reserve and the Gemsbok National Park, and is the most diverse. This is also the country's first national park. The park is probably best known for its spectacular elephant population: 50,000 elephants today, it is actually the highest elephant concentration of Africa. Moreover, most of them are probably part of the largest continuous surviving elephant population on Earth!!!!

Chobe National Park - Botswana

Cameroon - Douala's Funeral Quarter : Douala's bustling funeral quartier is testament to the alarmingly high death rate in many African countries. Scores of makeshift funeral parlours are located around the city morgue with rows of hearses lining the streets much like taxis in a busy rank waiting fares. Death can be a taboo subject for many people and taking photos of coffins being made might be a bit maudlin for some. I was struck by the kitsch factor in the funeral quarter and could not resist the chance to take photos. The owner of one particular business did think I was a bit weird and it took a lot of courage to ask "Do you mind if i take some photos of your coffins?". Most parlours are a one stop shop. They provide coffins and the full range of funeral services. Some have hair salons, sell mobile phone credit and even have little restaurants where you can eat while you wait for a coffin to be made. Personally, I love the elaborately decorated old hearses. This would be a fabulous way to 'go' depending on your tastes. I am not sure how I feel about a glass-encased coffin.

Cameroon - Douala's Funeral Quarter

Tunisia : A selection of photos from the North African nation of Tunisia. Sidi Bou Said, the blue quarter of Tunis, is listed in the book "1000 Places To See Before You Die". Hammamet Beach is also a great place to relax after venturing into the Sahara where you can spend some time with the nomadic Touareg people and admire their horsemanship skills.

Yemen : Old Sana'a is one of the most breathtaking ancient cities in the world - believed to be the oldest city in the Middle East. The architecture is magnificently preserved. I was made to feel very welcome during a visit to the local markets and was offered so many free items by the local vendors. I remain captivated by its charm and the warmth of the Yemeni people.

Zambia - 2010 Kuomboka Ceremony : Kuomboka is a word in the Lozi language; it literally means ‘to get out of water’. In today's Zambia it is applied to a traditional ceremony that takes place at the end of the rain season, when the upper Zambezi River floods the plains of the Western Province. The festival celebrates the move of the Litunga, king of the Lozi people, from his compound at Lealui in the Barotse Floodplain of the Zambezi River to Limulunga on higher ground. The ceremony is preceded by heavy drumming of the royal Maoma drums, which echoes around the royal capital the day before Kuomboka, announcing the event. The King's state barge is called Nalikwanda and is painted black and white, like Zambia's coat of arms. On the barge is a replica of a huge black elephant, the ears of which can be moved from inside the barge. There is also a fire on board, the smoke from which tells the people that the king is alive and well.

The Lozi outfits are interesting in both their history and design. The traditional costumes are simply a functional adaption of the famous Scottish kilt and beret. These were first worn in Zambia by Scottish missionaries who arrived in the Western Province in the 1700s. The Scotsman's kilt, berets and even Highland women's outfits have been stylised by the Lozi people over time often with local flair and colourful effect. The red beret and the ivory bangles remain modern day symobols for the Lozi people.

Terminology:

Lipatelo - animal skins worn by Lozi men

Siziba - traditional kilts worn by Lozi men

Mashushu - red berets worn by Lozi men

Kushowelela - Silozi Royal salute (clapping of hands)

Zambia - 2010 Kuomboka Ceremony

Cameroon : A selection of images from the small West African country of Cameroon who are most famous for their world-class soccer team. Cameroon's tourist slogan is "Africa in One Country" - everything has to offer is showcased in one country including the best and the worst. The colourful markets and bustling city streets can keep you entertained for hours. You can retire to the beach for a few days or climb West Africa's highest peak, Mount Cameroon, for a bit more of an adventure. Personal pic: The Royal Palace at Foumban. I just happened to be there when the Sultan made an appearance. Fantastic photos of the Sultan and his notables in their traditional robes.

South Africa - Festival of Chariots : One of the biggest and most colourful events in Durban's calendar is the annual Festival of Chariots hosted by the Hare Krishna community. Thousands for Hare Krishna devotees donned in traditional Indian saris pull large tent like chariots through the streets of Durban and a carnival atmosphere takes hold.

South Africa - Festival of Chariots

Ancient Egypt : Take a step back in time to an ancient land once ruled by powerful Pharoahs and legendary Queens. Egypt is a place where history comes alive. Marvel at the pyramids and wonder how they were built, explore the Museum of Antiquities, soak in the view as you cruise down the River Nile, be spellbound as you stroll through temples and musty burial chambers, lose yourself in the souks of Cairo city. Nothing can quite prepare you for this journey. The hardest part was sorting through thousands of images and selecting some of the best photos to represent in this collection. Personal favourite: Abu Simbel.

Egypt Panoramas : Panoramas are arguably the best way to capture the true size and dimensions of Egypt's iconic landmarks and tourist attractions. Click on the images to enlarge each photo.

Egypt Panoramas

Panoramas are arguably the best way to capture the true size and dimen ...

Updated: Dec 05, 2010 7:37pm PST

Niger - General Images :

Niger - General Images

Niger - People of the Sahel :

Niger - People of the Sahel

Updated: Jan 01, 2011 8:04am PST

Baaka Tribe in Black & White - Central African Republic : What could be more adventurous than spending a morning net hunting in the forests of Central Africa with the Baaka "Pygmy" tribes? Their skill and ability to weave so easily through heavily forested areas is mystifying. The forest filled with animal calls that morning as the Baaka tried to track a prize catch. But alas, we came home empty handed that morning. The hunting activity culminated in an evening of traditional Baaka dancing by a campfire.

Baaka Tribe in Black & White - Central African Republic

Forest Elephants of Central Africa : There are only a handful of countries on the African continent to encounter the forest elephants. I took a trip to Gabon and the Central African Republic to see the forest elephants in their natural habitate. A BBC documentary about forest elephants was released in early 2010. I stood on the same platform that features in most of the BBC footage. http://news.bbc.co.uk/earth/hi/earth_news/newsid_8546000/8546127.stm

Forest Elephants of Central Africa

Central Africa - Western Lowland Gorillas :

Central Africa - Western Lowland Gorillas

Central African Republic :

Central African Republic

The Last Giraffes in West Africa : Koure Giraffe Reserve in Niger is home to the last giraffe population in the whole of West Africa. Here you can track giraffes in their natural habitat for a very up close and personal experience. I was lucky to stand just several metres from one mature female giraffe. She observed me as much as I observed her. Then she became bored with the camera and walked off after 10 minutes.

The Last Giraffes in West Africa

Guinea : A small but distinguished collection of images taken near the World Heriatge listed Mt Nimba area in Guinea, close to the Liberia border. More photos to come.

South Africa - Lesedi Cultural Village : The Lesedi Cultural Village, a 45 min drive from Johannesburg offers visitors the chance to experience the colour and diversity of South Africa's cultures in one place. In the words of National Geographic adventurer Kingsley Holgate, a man without culture is like a zebra without stripes. Come to Lesedi and experience it for yourself. www.lesedi.com

South Africa - Lesedi Cultural Village

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