For as long as he can remember, the African bush with all its magnificent wildlife, has been his passion stronger than any other. Nelis feels it an incredible privilege to spend time with magnificent animals in their natural environment, watching them do what is natural to them. He has been very fortunate to have both his passion and his work under one umbrella. Starting off as a Game Guide on a private game reserve down in the Eastern Cape of South Africa Nelis developed an incredible passion for wildlife photography. In September 2011 he and his wife took over the management of a Gorilla Trekking lodge in Rwanda.  Spending time with these incredible “Relatives” has fueled his passion even more. Nelis notes, “photography to me has been the one playing field where both professional and amateur photographers can compete on an equal level, living out their passion. The hunt for that one really amazing photograph has been such an incredible driving force. Needless to say, I am still hunting!” Nelis’ photography work supports Centre Marembo, Gihembe Refugee Camp, and Hope Jones Foundation.