TITLE: Tsuru

Having spent 10 years photographing winter landscapes around Hokkaido, I must admit that observing the amazing life of the Japanese cranes (Tsuru or Tanchozuru) remains one of my best moments and not only for the great photography time they offer.

These elegant birds of about 150 cm height have a yearly dance ritual which aims to find a partner for the rest of their life. Like their flight, this dancing ballet is absolutely graceful.
It was a privilege spending many days gazing across the tranquil snow fields and rivers of Hokkaido for these peaceful moments.

AUTHOR: Olivier Robert (France)