The “Big Five,” a term originally used in Africa by trophy hunters, traditionally described the most challenging animals to shoot and kill: the lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo. Nowadays, it more broadly refers to some of Africa’s largest and most iconic animals.
British photographer Graeme Green has redefined this concept by introducing a global “New Big Five” for wildlife photography. In 2021, 50,000 individuals worldwide participated in a vote to select the five animals they would like to photograph or see photographed in their natural habitat. The winning animals were the elephant, polar bear, lion, gorilla, and tiger.
This week marks the release of “The New Big 5” photography book, showcasing these animals and other endangered wildlife. The book features images from renowned photographers like Ami Vitale, Steve McCurry, and Paul Nicklen, alongside essays from prominent conservationists like Jane Goodall and Paula Kahumbu.
Green, the visionary behind this project, aims to raise awareness about wildlife conservation issues such as habitat loss, poaching, pollution, and climate change. With a focus on encouraging people to appreciate and protect wildlife, Green’s book serves as a global call to action.
A decade ago in Botswana, Green conceived the project as a way to urge individuals to “shoot with a camera, not a gun,” emphasizing the importance of wildlife conservation efforts.
“The New Big 5” book showcases the work of 144 top wildlife photographers worldwide. Curating these captivating images took nearly two years of effort, reflecting Green’s dedication to the cause.
In a world where nature is rapidly declining, with millions of species facing extinction, the “New Big 5” animals represent ambassadors for the planet’s biodiversity. By shedding light on the imminent dangers, the book not only serves as a poignant reminder of what is at stake but also directs readers towards possible solutions.
Essays in the book explore the benefits of rewilding and the crucial role of indigenous communities in conservation efforts. Additionally, a chapter on endangered species highlights the grave threat posed by climate change, showcasing the urgency of the situation.
Renowned conservationist Jane Goodall, who also contributed an afterword to the book, stresses the importance of taking action promptly to heal the damage inflicted on the natural world. She hopes that the captivating photos will inspire people to engage with these iconic species and participate in safeguarding wildlife for future generations.
“The New Big 5: A Global Photography Project For Endangered Wildlife,” authored by Graeme Green and published by Earth Aware Editions, will be available for purchase from April 4, 2023.
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