An Algerian wildlife photographer’s unforgettable moment with a lion cub has taken social media by storm, leaving people all over the world swooning. Djamel Hadj Aissa, known for his stunning wildlife photography, recently shared a touching photo of himself alongside an unlikely companion—a playful lion cub born in his family’s zoo. The image quickly went viral, offering a glimpse into Djamel’s unique approach to capturing the beauty of the natural world.
Djamel, an independent photojournalist from Ghardaïa, Algeria, has long been recognized for his breathtaking shots of animals, from reptiles to birds to primates. But this time, the spotlight wasn’t on his usual subjects—this moment of magic was all about the adorable lion cub he brought along for a photo shoot.
A Lion Cub’s First Photoshoot
The cub, born in Djamel’s family-owned zoo, had never been part of a photo shoot before. Yet, her curiosity led her to jump onto Djamel’s chair, watching him intently as he worked. “She was so intrigued,” Djamel recalled. “She sat beside me and carefully observed everything I was doing.” That’s when Djamel’s nephew, Fayçal, snapped the picture that would steal the hearts of thousands. In the photo, Djamel and the cub are sitting side by side, both gazing in the same direction as if they were partners on a grand adventure.
The response was overwhelming. The image quickly gained traction on social media, with people showering it with love and admiration. While most reactions were filled with awe, some skeptics questioned its authenticity. Djamel, ever the storyteller, posted a follow-up video showing him and the cub working together, proving the heartwarming moment was real.
A Passion for Photography
Djamel’s journey into photography began at just 15 years old when a family friend gifted him his first camera. Over the years, he honed his skills, first as a press photographer before discovering his true calling in wildlife photography in the mid-2010s. Since then, he’s built a reputation for capturing powerful and emotional moments in nature, with a focus on conservation and storytelling.
His dream is to expand his horizons by becoming a foreign correspondent for an international outlet, which would help fund his passion for documenting the wonders of the natural world.
