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

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Survival run

On August 4th, 2024, in the heart of the Maasai Mara, a high-stakes drama unfolded as a cheetah and a Thompson's gazelle dashed across the plains at full speed, locked in a life-and-death chase. Just five seconds after this intense moment, the outcome of nature's survival game was decided. Capturing this rare and fleeting scene was an incredible stroke of luck, as opportunities to witness such raw, untamed beauty from a prime vantage point are few and far between. The powerful movement and tension in the air were palpable, a testament to the relentless rhythm of the wild.

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