Gorilla Families : Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
I traveled to Rwanda to witness a country that had endured unimaginable tragedy during the genocide. I visited memorials and walked through sites that marked some of the darkest chapters in the nation’s history. Standing in those places was sobering—a powerful reminder of how deep the wounds of conflict can run, and how important remembrance and reconciliation are to healing.
After spending time reflecting on that painful history, I decided to take a break and journey into the mountains to see the mountain gorillas. It was a remarkable shift—from the weight of human tragedy to the quiet resilience of nature.
With local guides and rangers from the national park, I hiked deep into the forested hills. These dedicated men and women not only track the gorillas but work tirelessly to protect them from poachers, particularly those who cross in from nearby Congo. Their passion and commitment were inspiring.
Photographing the gorillas was incredibly special—but also incredibly challenging. The environment is difficult to work in. You have limited space to move, and the backgrounds and lighting are completely out of your control. Trying to make compelling portraits or capture natural scenes requires not only patience and hard work, but also a fair amount of luck. You're crouching in dense jungle, trying to find clean frames through the tangle of vines and leaves, while being constantly aware of the gorillas’ movements and moods.
Sometimes, a baby gorilla might roll toward you and lean against your leg—an innocent act of curiosity, but one that could instantly trigger the mother’s protective instincts. You had to stay calm and still, knowing you were suddenly part of a delicate moment that could turn dangerous. The young silverbacks, already close to 300 pounds, had their own ideas of fun. They’d occasionally run past and give you a shove—just enough to send you into the mud, not out of aggression, but with an unmistakable display of power and control.
Despite the unpredictability, the mud, and the physical challenges, those hours spent among the gorillas were some of the most meaningful I’ve experienced. The connection to these magnificent creatures, and the chance to witness their lives up close, reminded me of the quiet strength that exists in both nature and people.
