Why it works

There’s no denying that Frans has created a stunning shot here, and the contrast created by the sharpness and blur is what immediately hits you when you first see this incredible image – however, it’s another contrast, which is created by the clash of warm light and sliver of cool blue water, that gives this shot an additional edge. Frans shares a similar view: “One of the things that makes the image special is that you’re getting a little bit of pink from the sunset and you’re also getting a little bit of blue that is a result of the shifting colour temperature, which happens early in the morning and late in the day. In a way, it’s a parallel to the image of the African elephants at twilight.”