Hadiza & Deanna
I had been photographing Hadiza for some time when I handed my guide the camera. I wanted a photograph of the two of us. Not as documentation — I had plenty of that. As something else. A record of what it felt like to be standing in a field in Kenya, at sunset, beside a Rothschild’s giraffe for the first time in my life. I jumped. The sun was low. Hadiza stood entirely still.
I have said before that giraffes healed parts of me I did not know needed healing. I believe that. There is something in the way they look at you — not past you, not through you. At you. With a steadiness that has nothing to prove and nowhere else to be. Beyond the gawky stare and the lank stride that people reach for first, there is something quieter in them. A quality I do not have a clean word for. Presence, maybe. The sense of being fully seen by something that asks nothing in return.
I do not have words for what this moment was. I only know I was the happiest I have been. My guide documented it. Hadiza allowed it.
I named him Hadiza — one with no desire. Standing in that field, I understood why. I did not need anything more than what was already there.
Fewer than 1,600 Rothschild’s giraffes remain in the wild — one of the most endangered large mammals on the continent. Most people do not know this.
THE EDITION
Limited edition fine art print — 50 each. Prints are signed, numbered, and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity with species information card.
MATERIALS
Hahnemühle sustainable archival paper, selected for permanence and tonal depth. Size includes 1 in (2.5 cm) Natural white border for matting.
RESPONSIBILITY
A portion of every acquisition supports conservation initiatives across Africa.
Price range: $99.00 through $250.00
I have purchased two prints and three of Deanna’s books. Deanna has a remarkable ability to capture a photo of whichever subject she is filming that day at just the right moment. I have found her books to be mesmerizing, not only for the photography within, but for the stories Deanna tells. You can tell she loves Africa. I highly recommend her works if you too are a fan of Africa.
Just prior to the conclusion of 2025, I purchased Deanna’s 2026 wildlife calendar for use in my office. The photographic images in the calendar were masterful, well crafted, and the product of a sensitive and talented photographer. There was a perfect spot for the calendar in my workplace, I am a counselor and the images would have been therapeutically soothing for clients to see. Ultimately however, the calendar found a good home with one of my grandsons who is a strong advocate for wildlife. Tell you what, I’m going to place s note in my calendar to buy two of Deanna’s products for 2027!
Deanna is one of the best (if not the best) wildlife photographers I have ever come across. Her ability to get close to the animals and frame the pictures is uncanny. I purchased her book (ICON) and it is fantastic, sitting on a table in my family room and everyone who leafs through it is amazed.Besides, her compassion for the animals is great, she is doing what she can to protect them. I cannot recommend her enough!
We own Deanna’s “Wild” vook. A gorgeous, technically masterful love letter to the endangered animals of Africa, and the people protecting them. We discovered Deanna’s work through Care for Wild Rhinos (now Care for Wild), and it is heartening to see that she contributes directly to conservation not only through her gorgeous images, but also by directly funding conservation projects.
Hey DD, I received your beautiful book. The images are absolutely incredible! It sits proudly next to my Herb Ritts.
Deanna’s work is absolutely incredible. Her animal and safari photography captures not just images, but real moments—there’s a sense of emotion, movement, and connection in every shot. You can tell she has both patience and a true passion for wildlife, which really comes through in the detail and storytelling of her photos.Beyond her photography, her website design is just as impressive. It’s clean, visually striking, and easy to navigate, allowing her work to truly stand out without distraction. The layout feels intentional and professional, and it creates an immersive experience that pulls you right into her world.
If you’re looking for someone who combines artistic vision with technical skill—both behind the camera and in presentation—Deanna is exceptional.
Wonderful and talented lady who truly loves and cares for earth and all its unique animals…has a pure heart and tells an amazing story through her breath taking photography from lands far away.
I can’t even begin to describe what I feel when I gaze upon your photos. To try and describe what I feel, I would say that I can feel their soul, and yours. Thank you for sharing.
I had the absolute privilege of experiencing the work of Deanna Deshea, and I can honestly say it left a lasting impression on me. Her wildlife photography from Kenya is nothing short of breathtaking—each image tells a story that feels alive, raw, and deeply connected to the soul of Africa.
Deanna is one of the very best Wildlife photographers of our time! She uses her voice, beautiful “one of a kind” photos, and platform to shine a light on the plight that is facing African wildlife today, as well as the indigenous tribes.The book is put together brilliantly and beautifully. You will get lost in the pages and come away more the wiser about what’s happening to wildlife in Africa.
Every time I see DeShea’s artwork, I’m reminded of the passion she has for her subjects. She captures the moment with intensity in the eyes and gestures of each creature. I feel as if I were actually there. Terrific!
Deanna’s photos and services are inspirational and amazing! She’s got a great eye that captures these beautiful creatures souls. I’d highly recommend and will continue to support her.
Deanna’s artwork and commitment to conservation is remarkable. She’s also done graphic design work for me and she produces incredible work, quickly and reasonably. I can’t recommend having her art on your walls enough. It brings Africa in to your home! And you know at the same time you are helping preserve these stunning creatures!
