Unable to resist the call of Flickr any longer I am perhaps somewhat of a late comer - but here nether the less.

Currently based just ouside Leeds, working full time in Marketing and Design Communication, whilst pursuing an increasing number of photography projects.

Studied 3D Design, Graphic Products and Photography for 4 years at Leeds and currently deferring a place to study a Masters in Curating 20th Century Design.

In 2008 I was fortunate to have the opportunity to travel to South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe to work on Big 5 Animal Conservation Projects. Such projects included working with the Red Cross to develop a humane, chilli pepper deterrent for Elephants, to prevent them causing damage to crops and thus reducing conflict with humans.

Other projects involved working with the Zimbabwean National Parks Authority monitoring White Rhino and Lion populations, aswell as undertaking a bush survival course, learning tracking and spotting skills.

I was also in Zimbabwe at the time of the Presidential elections where I experienced first hand, not only the suffering and decline of the country, but also the tremendously warm and welcoming, fighting spirit of a Nation determined not to be beaten.

It was during this time that I cemented my love of photography and in particular of photographing Africa’s wildlife in their natural environment.

Since then I have returned to Southern Africa and more recently in 2009 to East Africa including Kenya and the Masaai Mara, Uganda to the Mountain Gorillas, Tanzania to the Serengeti and Zanzibar Island - a truly magical place.

To view more of my work or to discuss the use of any images seen please visit:

www.eleanorparkes.com