Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Chaos in Motion

On August 1st, 2024, in the Maasai Mara, a herd of wildebeests charged through the river with chaotic and energetic motion, showcasing the raw power and instinct of the Great Migration. Their determined strides created dramatic splashes, filling the air with a sense of urgency and survival. Capturing this moment was an extraordinary privilege, as such scenes are rare to witness and even harder to photograph from an ideal vantage point. This image highlights the unrelenting drive of these animals and the mesmerizing beauty of their synchronized chaos, offering a glimpse into one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 08.2024
Date Uploaded: 11.2024
Photo Location: Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Camera: NIKON Z 9
Copyright: © Yoshiki Nakamura