Today, I wanted to talk to you about something else that weighs on my heart.
I discovered the animal sanctuary La Tanière by chance, during a stop near Chartres, in France. This extraordinary place gives shelter to animals rescued from customs seizures, circuses, illegal breeding operations, or tourist attractions. Many arrive broken — physically or emotionally — and the team there does everything to heal them, rehabilitate them, or at the very least, offer them a dignified life… or a dignified end. 
Among the stories that left a mark on me is Isabella, a tigress whose claws and teeth were brutally removed so that tourists could pose next to her without risk. This act of cruelty was reportedly committed in India. Or these lions abandoned by a Spanish circus, left starving and untreated in their cages.
This sanctuary touched me deeply. It opened my eyes to something devastating: the wildlife trafficking trade, which is not just a distant problem. Even in France, over 3,000 wild animals are seized every year by customs. Globally, wildlife trafficking is the fourth largest criminal activity, after drugs, weapons, and human trafficking — worth over $23 billion annually and affecting millions of animals each year. Decline of Iconic Wildlife Species (1970–2020)
The What We Lost series was born out of that shock. It pays tribute to endangered species — tigers, elephants, rhinos, lions, giraffes — but also to our lost connection with the wild. Each image is a silent prayer, a fragile memory, a way to say: Look at what we are losing.
And let’s be honest: our actions as tourists often fuel this suffering. Behind an exotic photo or a selfie with a wild animal, there may be hidden chains, forced obedience, or lifelong captivity. Just for a few seconds of content. We should never let a simple Instagram post justify that kind of cruelty. 
30% of all sales from this series will be donated to the La Tanière sanctuary.
This is not about money. It’s about responsibility. Zampa Limited Edition 30
€75.00 - €400.00
Bientôt en rupture de stock! Origin: France Mutilated for the vanity of men, Zampa was rescued from illegal wildlife trade. Now safe, his gaze still carries the weight of violence, and the quiet dignity of survival. This portrait is part of the What We Lost series — a tribute to those we failed, and those we can still protect. Premium format (120×80 cm) Museum-grade printing on Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308g/m², framed with anti-reflective glass and white border. Signed, numbered, and limited to 30 editions. Price on request – Please contact us directly to inquire about this collector’s format. Brothers of Land – What We Lost
€75.00 - €400.00
Bientôt en rupture de stock! Location: Kenya, East Africa Two rhinoceroses stand side by side, quiet and watchful. In their massive stillness lies a fragile truth — one step from extinction, one breath from disappearance. This portrait from the What We Lost series honors their presence, and warns of what we may never see again. Premium format (120×80 cm) Museum-grade printing on Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308g/m², framed with anti-reflective glass and white border. Signed, numbered, and limited to 30 editions. Price on request – Please contact us directly to inquire about this collector’s format. Follow Me – What We Lost
€75.00 - €400.00
Bientôt en rupture de stock! Location: Kenya, East Africa A baby elephant walks in the shadow of its mother, step by step across the dry earth. It’s a quiet lesson in protection, legacy, and hope. Part of the What We Lost series, this image speaks of the bond we still have time to preserve — if we choose to. Premium format (120×80 cm) Museum-grade printing on Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308g/m², framed with anti-reflective glass and white border. Signed, numbered, and limited to 30 editions. Price on request – Please contact us directly to inquire about this collector’s format. Zampa – The Gaze – Limited Edition of 30
€75.00 - €400.00
Bientôt en rupture de stock! Location: France His eyes hold the weight of what he’s endured — and what he remembers. In this close portrait of Zampa, rescued from illegal captivity, we are faced with more than an animal: we are met by a soul. Part of the What We Lost series, this image is a mirror held up to ourselves. Premium format (120×80 cm) Museum-grade printing on Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308g/m², framed with anti-reflective glass and white border. Signed, numbered, and limited to 30 editions. Price on request – Please contact us directly to inquire about this collector’s format. Little Lemur – What We Lost – Limited Edition of 30
€75.00 - €400.00
Bientôt en rupture de stock! Location: Madagascar Clinging to the back of its mother, a baby lemur peers out with wide, uncertain eyes. In a forest growing quieter each year, this tiny gaze speaks volumes. Part of the What We Lost series, this image is a tender reminder of the fragility — and beauty — of what remains. Premium format (120×80 cm) Museum-grade printing on Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308g/m², framed with anti-reflective glass and white border. Signed, numbered, and limited to 30 editions. Price on request – Please contact us directly to inquire about this collector’s format. Isabella – What We Lost – Limited Edition of 30
€75.00 - €400.00
Bientôt en rupture de stock! Location: France Behind the wire and beyond the scars, Isabella still walks like royalty. Rescued from abuse, her gaze carries both defiance and grace — the quiet strength of a survivor. Part of the What We Lost series, this portrait honors her story, and all the invisible ones like hers. Premium format (120×80 cm) Museum-grade printing on Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308g/m², framed with anti-reflective glass and white border. Signed, numbered, and limited to 30 editions. Price on request – Please contact us directly to inquire about this collector’s format. Clinging to Silence Koalas
€75.00 - €400.00
Bientôt en rupture de stock! Location: Kangaroo Island, Australia Two koalas embrace the last branches of a shrinking world. High in the eucalyptus, their silence speaks of wildfires past, habitats lost, and a delicate balance at risk. This intimate portrait, part of the What We Lost series, reminds us that even the gentlest lives can vanish quietly. Premium format (120×80 cm) Museum-grade printing on Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308g/m², framed with anti-reflective glass and white border. Signed, numbered, and limited to 30 editions. Price on request – Please contact us directly to inquire about this collector’s format.
Today, I wanted to talk to you about something else that weighs on my heart.
I discovered the animal sanctuary La Tanière by chance, during a stop near Chartres, in France. This extraordinary place gives shelter to animals rescued from customs seizures, circuses, illegal breeding operations, or tourist attractions. Many arrive broken — physically or emotionally — and the team there does everything to heal them, rehabilitate them, or at the very least, offer them a dignified life… or a dignified end. 
Among the stories that left a mark on me is Isabella, a tigress whose claws and teeth were brutally removed so that tourists could pose next to her without risk. This act of cruelty was reportedly committed in India. Or these lions abandoned by a Spanish circus, left starving and untreated in their cages.
This sanctuary touched me deeply. It opened my eyes to something devastating: the wildlife trafficking trade, which is not just a distant problem. Even in France, over 3,000 wild animals are seized every year by customs. Globally, wildlife trafficking is the fourth largest criminal activity, after drugs, weapons, and human trafficking — worth over $23 billion annually and affecting millions of animals each year. Decline of Iconic Wildlife Species (1970–2020)
The What We Lost series was born out of that shock. It pays tribute to endangered species — tigers, elephants, rhinos, lions, giraffes — but also to our lost connection with the wild. Each image is a silent prayer, a fragile memory, a way to say: Look at what we are losing.
And let’s be honest: our actions as tourists often fuel this suffering. Behind an exotic photo or a selfie with a wild animal, there may be hidden chains, forced obedience, or lifelong captivity. Just for a few seconds of content. We should never let a simple Instagram post justify that kind of cruelty.
30% of all sales from this series will be donated to the La Tanière sanctuary.
This is not about money. It’s about responsibility. 
Manta Rays: Graceful Giants
Manta rays, with wingspans reaching up to 7 meters, are fascinating creatures that primarily inhabit the warm waters of tropical oceans. Their name, "manta," comes from the Spanish word meaning "sail," a perfectly fitting description for their majestic shape as they glide gracefully through the water, almost as if they are flying in the ocean. Yet, despite their imposing size, manta rays are peaceful creatures, feeding primarily on plankton and small fish, which they filter through their mouths while swimming with incredible fluidity. 
In Mayotte's lagoon, manta rays are omnipresent between March and June, creating an impressive spectacle for divers and snorkelers lucky enough to observe them. From the surface, with a mask and snorkel, one can see them move with hypnotic grace, spinning above the reefs, performing smooth pirouettes and slow but powerful movements. They move slowly, sometimes accompanied by pilot fish that seem to play by their side. But this ballet is not just a visual spectacle. For researchers and naturalists, each encounter with a manta ray is an opportunity to collect valuable data on their behavior, movements, and health.
Unique Identification: The Patterns on Their Bodies
One of the most intriguing aspects of manta rays is the ability to identify them individually through distinctive patterns on their bellies. Each manta ray has a unique design, much like a human fingerprint, which can be used to recognize and track them over the years. These patterns, often compared to geometric shapes, vary from one ray to another and are usually located on the ventral area, although they can sometimes be found on the back. This natural identification system allows researchers and naturalists to monitor the movements, behaviors, and habits of these marine creatures over time. The patterns consist of small spots and lines that, when observed from different angles, form unique shapes. Thanks to these characteristics, scientists have created databases of these patterns and use identification software to recognize rays in different regions of the world. This not only helps to understand their migrations and interactions but also plays a crucial role in conservation by specifically targeting individuals at risk due to harmful practices like illegal fishing. Over the years, research programs have built identification databases for manta rays, enabling the cataloging of thousands of individuals across the oceans. These studies also provide essential information about their life cycle, behavior, and reproduction. Identification by pattern is a true breakthrough for marine science and plays a key role in species conservation management. 
A Fascinating Social Behavior
Manta rays are not only solitary creatures; they are also known for their complex social behaviors. They often form small groups that gather around cleaning stations, where they go to rid themselves of parasites and skin debris. These cleaning behaviors, often seen around cleaning stations, show how manta rays, despite their size, are sensitive to social interactions. Researchers have also observed behaviors suggesting long-term relationships between rays, though these theories are still being developed. What is certain is that manta rays possess remarkable intelligence and adaptability, making them particularly fascinating to study. 
Threats to Manta Rays
Unfortunately, manta rays are now threatened by several factors, primarily overfishing, pollution, and the loss of their natural habitat. Although commercial fishing of manta rays is banned in many countries, they are sometimes accidentally caught in fishing nets or targeted for their gills, which are used in certain traditional remedies. Climate change, which affects coral reefs and marine ecosystems, also has detrimental effects on manta rays by reducing their natural habitats. In this context, it is essential to adopt a proactive conservation approach and continue efforts to protect these exceptional marine animals. Tracking manta rays, using techniques like pattern identification, is an excellent way to assess their health and better understand their behavior to protect them. 
Manta Ray Conservation: A Critical Issue
The preservation of manta rays requires a global approach. Effective protection measures must be implemented to ensure their future in a healthy marine environment. Efforts should focus on reducing pollution, establishing marine protected areas, and regulating fishing to limit accidental captures. Scientists and enthusiasts like those at Seablue Safari play a crucial role in raising awareness and collecting vital data about these fascinating creatures. A key player in manta ray conservation is Manta Trust, a global charity dedicated to the research and protection of manta rays and their habitats. Manta Trust works alongside scientists, local communities, and conservation organizations to monitor manta populations, establish marine protected areas, and advocate for better conservation policies. They are at the forefront of educating the public about the importance of manta rays and supporting sustainable practices that help protect these magnificent creatures. You can help contribute to manta ray conservation by supporting organizations like Manta Trust through donations, participating in their research programs, and promoting sustainable practices in your local community. Every effort counts in the fight to protect these majestic creatures and the ecosystems they inhabit. In the lagoon of Mayotte, manta rays continue to fascinate and captivate, reminding us all of the importance of protecting our oceans for future generations.  Fineart Ocean Photography – “We Are Orcas”Dive deeper into the world of cetaceans with this fine art black & white piece, 
The mangrove forests of Mayotte are among the most essential and diverse ecosystems in the world. With their distinctive roots emerging from the water like natural sculptures, mangroves provide a unique environment that supports a wide variety of wildlife. These coastal forests, which grow in saltwater, are often overlooked, yet they are some of the most productive ecosystems on Earth.
The Hidden Importance of Mangroves
Mangrove forests serve as the nursery for countless species of fish, crabs, and other marine life. The young fish find shelter among the mangrove roots, where they can grow and develop away from predators in the open ocean. For many species, including commercially important ones, mangroves are essential for their survival, offering shelter and protection during their early stages of life. But the benefits of mangroves go beyond their role as a safe haven for marine creatures. Mangrove forests are also a vital defense against coastal erosion and storms. Their dense root systems trap sediment, stabilize shorelines, and reduce the impact of large waves. In the face of climate change, mangroves are increasingly recognized for their role in mitigating the effects of rising sea levels. 
A Rich Biodiversity
The mangrove ecosystems of Mayotte are teeming with life. You can spot a variety of species, including the elusive mudskippers that leap across the mudflats, brightly colored crabs, and even rare bird species. The diversity of life in these ecosystems is nothing short of extraordinary, as they offer a perfect blend of terrestrial and marine habitats. Among the most iconic inhabitants of the mangroves are the mangrove monitor lizards, which use the area as a hunting ground. Meanwhile, the forest is also home to several species of mangrove-dwelling insects and amphibians, making it a fascinating place for biodiversity enthusiasts.
Mangroves and Climate Change: The Crucial Role
In recent years, the survival of mangrove forests has become more critical as they play an essential role in combating climate change. Not only do they store carbon in their soils and biomass, but they also act as buffers for coastal communities. In areas where mangroves thrive, they absorb much more carbon than terrestrial forests, making them vital for climate change mitigation. These forests are true carbon sinks, and protecting them can help in the fight against global warming. □ Discover the artwork inspired by this story: → Two Queens for a Kingdom – Limited Edition Fine Art Print
Protecting the Mangrove: A Call for Action
Despite their importance, mangrove forests face numerous threats. Deforestation, coastal development, pollution, and the effects of climate change are all contributing to the degradation of these vital ecosystems. Across the world, including in Mayotte, efforts are being made to preserve and restore these forests. Local conservation initiatives, including replanting programs, are helping to revive mangrove areas that have been damaged by human activity. One of the ways we can all help is by supporting these restoration efforts and advocating for policies that protect mangrove habitats. We must work together to ensure that these silent guardians of our coasts continue to thrive and protect our oceans and communities for generations to come. 
Mangrove Conservation: How You Can Make a Difference
You can support mangrove conservation by:
As we continue to witness the effects of climate change, it’s vital that we recognize and protect the ecosystems that play such a crucial role in maintaining the balance of life on Earth. Mangroves are not only beautiful; they are essential for a thriving planet. 
Every year on June 8th, World Oceans Day reminds us of the crucial importance of this vast blue territory that covers more than 70% of our planet’s surface. More than just a majestic landscape, the ocean is a climate regulator, a source of life, and a sanctuary for exceptional biodiversity. Yet today, it is more threatened than ever. Let’s dive into this fascinating ecosystem that shapes our future.
The Vital Role of the Oceans
The ocean plays a central role in stabilizing the global climate. It absorbs nearly a quarter of the carbon dioxide emissions produced by human activity and generates more than 50% of the oxygen we breathe. Its currents regulate temperatures, influence climate patterns, and maintain the fragile balance of terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Beneath its shimmering surface, the ocean harbors unparalleled biological richness. From microscopic plankton to majestic whales, every species plays a role in the great symphony of marine life—and in our own lives as well. 
Oceans in Peril
Despite their vastness, the oceans are fragile. Plastic pollution contaminates their waters even in the most remote areas, from the Galápagos Islands to Antarctica. Overfishing threatens essential species like bluefin tuna, disrupting the balance of food chains. Ocean acidification, a direct consequence of excess CO2 in the atmosphere, weakens coral reefs and endangers the survival of many marine organisms. 
The Dangers of the Future
If we continue to neglect the health of the oceans, the consequences will be dramatic—not only for marine life but for humanity as a whole. Rising sea levels, caused by melting ice and the thermal expansion of seawater, threaten millions of people living along coastlines. Increasing acidification will further disrupt marine ecosystems, impacting fisheries and endangering food security for many communities. Additionally, the loss of marine biodiversity could have cascading effects across the entire planet, leading to major ecological and economic imbalances. 
Toward Greater Protection
Faced with these threats, protecting the oceans has become a global emergency. Marine protected areas are expanding, aiming to preserve essential habitats and limit human impact. In 2023, the United Nations adopted a historic treaty for the protection of the high seas—an important step in conserving international waters. Local and community-led initiatives are also growing: mangrove restoration, coral regeneration, and sustainable fishing programs offer hope for future generations. 
How Can We Take Action?
Preserving the oceans depends on simple but essential actions: reducing our plastic consumption, choosing sustainably sourced seafood, supporting organizations dedicated to marine conservation, and raising awareness about the importance of this vital ecosystem. World Oceans Day is not just a celebration—it is a call to action. Every photograph, every dive, every initiative matters in protecting this shared heritage. Ultimately, by protecting the ocean, we are protecting ourselves.  Built for the DepthsUnderwater photography setup with Lumix S1 — captured in Indian Ocean light. I chose Lumix for a reason: trust underwater. But if Panasonic wants to lead, it needs to listen to the field. Read the articleGet ocean updates once a week. |
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