Black and White Zebra Print: Introducing ‘Parallel Lines’
Zebra are among the most iconic and visually striking animals in the wild. With their bold black-and-white stripes, they offer a natural masterpiece of contrast, symmetry, and form—a dream for any photographer drawn to aesthetically pleasing lines, patterns, and repetition.
Yet, despite their beauty, zebra are surprisingly tricky to photograph. Unlike the rich, earthy tones of lions or elephants, their high-contrast markings demand careful composition and exposure control to truly do them justice.
This balance of challenge and reward is what makes zebra photography so captivating.
The story behind my Zebra art print, Parallel Lines
I captured this particular pair in 2011 in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, where they stood momentarily still—perfectly aligned, perfectly parallel.
As herd animals, zebra tend to cluster together. This makes it difficult to isolate just one or two in a frame. Even when that opportunity arises, zebra are naturally skittish – rarely do they stand still for long, making them challenging to photograph.
The key to success when photographing zebra? As with all wildlife photography…patience.
At this moment, two zebra stood perfectly parallel, heads resting upon each other. This paired resting posture is a common behaviour in zebra herds, offering both comfort and protection from predators. Some researchers even suggest that it serves a practical purpose—allowing each zebra to use its companion’s tail as a built-in fly swatter!
Just as I prepared to capture the symmetry of their pose, something in the distance (a warthog, perhaps?) caught their attention. That moment of alertness added an extra dimension to the scene, transforming it from a simple portrait into something dynamic and full of life.
The resulting image, Parallel Lines, is a timeless black-and-white zebra print that celebrates zebra for their beautiful patterns, monochrome colouring and natural symmetry.
Zebra in the Maasai Mara, Kenya
The Maasai Mara is home to one of the largest zebra populations in Africa. Thankfully, that means that when we visit Kenya on safari, zebra always feature in our daily game drives.
Every year an estimated 400,000 zebra take part in the Great Migration, journeying from the Mara into the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing land.
Conservation challenges facing Zebra
While zebra are not as critically endangered as some of Africa’s big cats or elephants, they still face significant threats.
Expanding human settlements and agriculture are reducing zebra grazing lands and leading to habitat loss. Also, poaching remains a challenge. While not as heavily targeted as elephants or rhinos, zebra are still hunted for skins and bushmeat in some regions.
Climate change is also playing a part. Changing rainfall patterns are affecting grazing availability and disrupting traditional migration routes.
Thankfully though, conservation projects in the Maasai Mara—supported by eco-tourism, responsible safaris, and ethical photography practices —will help ensure that zebra continue to roam these landscapes for generations to come.
Why are Zebra stripes so unique?
The distinctive stripes of a zebra are one of nature’s greatest mysteries, and scientists have long debated their function. No two zebra have the same stripe pattern, much like human fingerprints.
Some say that while a single zebra may stand out, a moving herd creates a dazzling optical illusion, making it harder for predators to pick out an individual target. Others suggest the alternating black and white stripes help regulate body temperature, cooling the zebra in hot climates, and that the stripes may deter biting insects too, as flies appear to have difficulty landing on striped surfaces. In large herds, it’s also been suggested that zebra may use stripe patterns to identify family members and companions.
Whatever the reason, black and white zebra undoubtedly remain one of Africa’s most fascinating and photogenic species.
Tips for capturing stunning zebra photography
Look for Patterns: Instead of trying to photograph an entire herd, focus on symmetry, repetition, and unique interactions. Pairs or small groups often make for the most compelling images.
Mind the Background: Zebra patterns stand out best against clean, uncluttered backgrounds. Position yourself to avoid distracting elements in the frame.
Use Soft Light: Harsh midday sun can lead to overly bright highlights and deep shadows. Golden hour light brings out texture and detail beautifully.
Be Patient: Zebra are skittish, so it’s essential to remain quiet, still, and non-threatening. Given time, they will settle into natural and candid poses.
Capture Behaviour: Moments like grooming, playing, or resting heads on each other tell a story and add emotion to your images.
Invest in a black and white Zebra print
Parallel Lines is a fine art print that captures the elegance of black and white zebra in the wild. Printed to museum-grade quality, this kmited edition artwork is designed to stand the test of time.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, an art collector, or simply looking for a statement piece to enhance your home or workspace, Parallel Lines is a celebration of the monochromatic beauty of Africa.
Find out more about this zebra art print and explore the full print collection. Worldwide shipping is available.
Related: Seven reasons to invest in fine art wildlife prints
Encounter zebra in the wild
If black and white zebra photography fascinates you, there is no better place to witness their beauty than on safari in the Maasai Mara.
I am leading an exclusive 7-day Great Migration Photo Safari this September, offering photographers and wildlife enthusiasts the chance to experience hundreds of zebra walking across the open savannah.
You’ll also get to witness the thrill of a wildebeest river crossing—one of the most dramatic wildlife spectacles on Earth – and the big cats of the Mara including lions, cheetahs, and perhaps even a leopard!
Join me and you’ll experience the unique challenge and reward of photographing zebra. Undoubtedly, they are a fascinating subject for wildlife photography and present an opportunity to hone your skills in black and white animal portraits.
Related: My Oldest Elephant Print, ‘Amboseli Crossing’
Join an African photo safari this September
Discover the Great Migration Photo Safari and other upcoming photo safari opportunities here on my website.
Whether you are interested in September 2025 or September 2026, as always, places are limited so get in touch as soon as possible to secure your place on an unforgettable African safari.
David
