Published in association with the Smithonian’s Biodiversity Group, Edge of Africa is a visual feast of astonishing wildlife photography.

Photographer Carlton Ward has spent six months stationed in a complex in Gabon. He spent the whole time capturing, photographing and releasing animals, with astonishing results. Many of the creatures have been photographed up close against a black background, which gives quite astonishing detail and clarity. Many of the creatures he worked with are extremely rare, and some have never been photographed before. Using an extremely complicated technique that involves setting up a camera equipped with a motion detector along a beaten path, Carlton was able to capture some unique results. The shots that worked - one in every twenty rolls Ð are incredible. There is only one other camera set-up like this in the world. There is also a collection of shots that are extremely unusual - a hippo in the sea, is one example, and is a shot that Carlton had to wait for hours to get. What is unique about Gabon is the incredible diversity of life that exists there, it is as dense as any part of the planet, and serves, in ecological terms as a perfect example of how industry can work to the very best practice. The whole Gabon Diversity project is sponsored by Shell, who drill for oil in the area, and yet are doing so in a manner that actually protects the local wildlife, rather than endangers it. Their methods could and should serve as a model for industries in all other parts of the globe.

About the Authors

Carlton Ward is a professional photographer. He lives in Fort Lauderdale.

Alfonso Alonso is joint-head of the Smithsonian Biodiversity Research Program. He lives in Washington, DC.

Francisco Dallmeier is joint-head of the Smithsonian Biodiversity Research Program He lives in Washington, DC.