Shirli Carswell

She periodically packs her overland vehicle and heads out to some wild destination to capture and build a library of images for her fine art portfolio and other creative projects.

Shirli's images are visual stories of breathtaking wildlife, landscapes and tribal portraits—she is a passionate steward of Africa and conservation. She does travel writing and photo essays for adventure magazines and believes tourism to Africa is crucial. The 'Africa Calling' convention held in Johannesburg exhibited her African tribal fineart, and proudly, some of her images grace the walls of a prominent agency.

A thrilling journey through the continent celebrating the beautiful destinations in Africa — creating illustrative maps to pinpoint various iconic great parks on the continent. She guides informal photographic safaris with guests to some of these magnificent locations. She co-authored the book 'Africa's Ultimate Safaris' with Ian Thompson, which took two years to complete. It was sold out in three months and is ready for a second printing in the near future.

Conservation and animal welfare issues have played a significant role for many years. Shirli believes that a shift of perception is needed, one that comes with a narrative of storytelling, interesting anecdotes through the bush culture of safaris. And an open discussion on conservation issues here in Africa, which in reality touches everyone globally. A 'mindfulness' through senses; listening carefully, smelling, tasting the air, feeling the moment and observing how it looks and moves. She endeavours to convey that in her photography.

Currently, she is working on a series of books with a Dutch artist and author, which is a challenging and rewarding project evolving.