Fine art photographer Marilyn Maxwell:

Spanning seven years, “At Risk” is an ongoing project focused on raising awareness of the pressing issues of vanishing species in Africa.  The animals are threatened by habitat loss from expanding human populations and by the illegal wildlife trade in animal body parts and meat. These images not only remind people of the animals’ plight, but also are intended to live on as works of art.

“Painting was my first love. I chose to photograph in black and white using infrared technology in order to create dynamic images that have the look and feel of drawings. I usually keep the depth of field shallow so that the blurred background keeps the focus on the animal.  These tight portraits create an intimacy with the viewer and communicate the animals’ personality.”