‘Stormy’
Tonga is one of the few places in the world where people have the privilege to respectfully swim alongside these incredible creatures. Humpback whale migration from the Antarctic waters, past Tassie to the warmer waters around Tonga every year.
One of my first Mother and Calf encounters, forever etched in my memory, was to witness the early nurturing behaviour and their exceptionally close bond reinforced by gentle nudges, fin touching, mimicking and vocal communication. This early nurturing is crucial for the calf’s survival, growth and eventually, independence.
‘Stormy’, was encounter during my second trip to Vava’u. One day, the weather was not in our favour. The ocean had a stormy vibe, grey tones with a decent swell, white caps and plenty of sea spray. I was convinced it would be no different under the water and even more convinced it would not be our day for whales.
We were already wet from the rain and sea spray and cold from the wind.
But then that call…IN THE WATER!
Beneath the surface, the noise from the surface stopped and there she was. Slowly gliding through the water with her new baby swimming alongside. This newborn was barely 2 weeks old, was almost completely white with not a mark or scratch on its pure white skin. This was the smallest calf I’d ever seen. Absolute perfection.
As Mother's Day approaches each year, its hard to go past this image. Its always a wonderful reminder of being gifted with the ability to bring new life into the world and a blessing to present as they grow. To nurture them to become the best versions of themselves is a privilege.
Limited Edition /50 Fine Art Print - A2 Size
Limited Edition /50 Fine Art Print - A3 Size
Limited Edition/50 Fine Art Print - A4 Size
Prints are produced using a sophisticated digital reproduction system and the highest quality archival processes currently available. The images are printed with pigment ink on a 100% cotton rag archival paper and will last over 100 years.