Some wildlife moments take your breath away before you even realise you have stopped breathing. That is exactly what happened when a wildlife photographer captured an extraordinary predator encounter in the heart of Zambia, sharing a glimpse into a world most people will never experience up close.
A Close Encounter Caught On Camera
Wildlife photographer and filmmaker Hannah Stitfall recently stunned social media users with footage from a photoshoot in Zambia, where a pride of lions surrounded her vehicle during an early morning outing. Calm and composed, she filmed the big cats as they walked past, watched her closely, and interacted with one another in the golden light.
Stitfall, who has more than 480,000 followers on Instagram, is known for documenting wildlife such as leopards, elephants, and other iconic African species. This encounter, she said, was as “exhilarating and breathtaking” as any she has experienced in the field.
Guided By Experts
Speaking to Newsweek, Stitfall explained that she works with highly experienced wildlife guides who play a vital role in her shoots. They support “ninety-nine percent” of her encounters, ensuring both her safety and that of the animals.
“One word I would use to describe it is intoxicating,” she said. “Once you’ve had a wildlife experience like this, it leaves you wanting more.”
Her fascination with animals started young. Though she once hoped to become a wildlife veterinarian, she quickly discovered she could not handle the surgical side of the work. Instead, she studied zoology, completed a Master’s degree in wildlife filmmaking with the BBC’s Natural History Unit, and found her way into storytelling through the lens.
Sharing Wildlife With A Global Audience
Stitfall describes herself as a wildlife TV presenter who also films and edits many of her own projects. Posting her work across Instagram and TikTok, she says, allows her to reach younger audiences who are increasingly drawn to digital storytelling rather than traditional television.
Despite the close calls that come with filming predators, she insists she is never frightened.
“Animals will only attack if they feel threatened,” she explained. “If you respect their space and follow ethical wildlife filmmaking practices, you will be very safe.”
For her, the key is simple: humans must remember they are guests in the animal’s world.
Inspiring The Next Generation
Stitfall is proud to be part of a field that has long been dominated by men, and she often hears from young women who are inspired by her work. She hopes her presence online shows that wildlife photography and filmmaking are both achievable and deeply rewarding careers.
Her advice for beginners is refreshingly simple: start where you are.
Using a phone is perfectly fine.
Learn the wildlife in your own neighbourhood.
Understand their habits, habitats, and feeding routines.
And, as she puts it, “Find the food and you can be sure you’ll find them.”
Capturing A Feeling That Lasts
Stitfall believes that digital platforms offer a unique opportunity to spark curiosity and conservation-minded thinking in young people. If even a handful of viewers feel inspired to protect wildlife after seeing her work, she considers that a success.
“It is a feeling that is hard to beat,” she said.
Her breathtaking lion encounter in Zambia is just one example of how powerful wildlife moments can be when shared authentically, respectfully, and with a deep love for the natural world.
