My shuttle wound its way through the rural countryside and into a valley at the foot of the mountains one hour from Chiang Mai. Nestled along the river I watched the sanctuary come into view. As a photographer, the sanctuary provided a perfect opportunity to capture the elephants in a native yet controlled environment unencumbered by chains and fences and party hats. Yes, it wasn't truly wild but to the elephants it is as wild and free as they would need.