Health on Safari
Capture your memories on safari with these photography tips.
For most people an African safari is a once in a lifetime experience, so you want to make sure that your photographs capture the special moments.
A little preparation - and the right equipment - will help you take your best photos while on safari.
We don’t claim to be photography experts, but we have spent untold hours behind a camera in Africa. Having taken some “Wow!” shots and had our share of photographic disasters, we feel qualified to provide some photographic tips.
Embarking on an African safari presents a plethora of opportunities for capturing breathtaking moments in the wild. From majestic landscapes to captivating wildlife, the possibilities for stunning photography are endless. However, capturing those perfect shots requires careful planning, technique, and understanding of the environment. Here are some invaluable tips to help you capture unforgettable images during your African safari adventure.
Safari Photography Equipment and Basic Must-Haves
1. Camera and lens choice for safari
Before setting out on your safari, familiarize yourself with your camera equipment. Whether you’re using a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or smartphone, understanding its features and settings will enable you to make quick adjustments in the field.
We think you will regret coming to Africa without a DSLR and a long lens. At least a 300mm lens, preferably a 400mm, is essential for photographing wildlife. If you are tossing up whether to upgrade your camera body or buy a zoom lens – go with the zoom!
Changing lenses in the field is likely to result in a dusty sensor – which can be a problem for the remainder of the trip. When heading out on game drives, a 100-400mm zoom lens will be ideal for most scenarios. And for those times when wildlife is REALLY close to the vehicle, your phone is probably good enough to capture a beautiful shot or video.
2. Pack safari photography accessories wisely
Don’t forget extra batteries, memory cards, lens cleaning supplies, and a sturdy camera bag to protect your gear from dust and impact.
You will be amazed by how many photos you take, so be sure you have enough memory. You could need anywhere from 30GB to 100GB for a 2 week trip. If you’re shooting video, that could go as high as 500GB. Consider bringing a small portable hard drive.
It’s a good idea to spread your risk by using a few small memory cards, rather than one or two huge cards. Organise cards in a dust resistant wallet.
If your batteries are rechargeable, consider bring a car charger and ask your guide to charge your batteries while on a game drive.
If you are traveling with multiple devices, we suggest a travel power strip so you can charge multiple devices with a single adaptor.
3. Back up your safari photos at the end of each day
We are a bit paranoid about back up, having seen too many of our clients lose their precious memories.
If you are bringing you laptop then consider bringing a portable hard drive as well. Every evening download your photos onto your laptop and external hard drive.
If space and weight are a worry then consider Google portable photo storage devices or back up flash memory cards. Even once you’ve backed up, don’t erase or format your memory cards unless you are completely out of space. Keep your memory cards on you at all times and your backup copy in another location.
Safari Photography Tips for the Ultimate Photos
1. When you take your photos is key
The golden hours of sunrise and sunset offer soft, warm light that enhances the beauty of your subjects. Plan your safaris around these times for the best lighting conditions. Additionally, animals are often more active during cooler parts of the day, increasing your chances of capturing dynamic shots.
2. Be patient and pay attention to composition and scale
Wildlife photography on safari requires patience. Spend time observing animal behavior and anticipate moments of action. Be prepared to wait for the perfect shot rather than rushing through sightings.
Pay attention to the composition of your safari photos to create visually compelling images. Use the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing techniques to draw the viewer’s eye to your subject. Experiment with different angles and perspectives for unique compositions.
When photographing vast landscapes or large animals, include elements that provide scale to convey the grandeur of the scene. Incorporate people, vehicles, or familiar objects to help viewers understand the size and magnitude of the subject.
Remember, these photos are of YOUR memories. They don’t have to please or impress anyone but yourself.
3. Capture wildlife in action
Wildlife photography often involves capturing animals in motion. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze action and avoid motion blur. Continuous shooting mode can help you capture multiple frames of a moving subject, increasing your chances of getting the perfect shot.
4. Safari photography etiquette
Always prioritize the well-being of the animals and their natural habitat. Keep a safe distance and avoid disturbing or harassing wildlife for the sake of a photo.
Remember that you are a guest in their home, and your presence should have minimal impact on their behavior.
Be respectful of wildlife. Don’t use a flash at a waterhole at night or when visiting the gorillas or chimps in dense forest.
Some people in Africa still have religious issues with being photographed. Please be courteous and ask before you take a picture.
5. Experiment with settings for unique safari photos
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different camera settings to achieve the desired effect while on safari. Play with aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to control exposure and creative effects such as motion blur or depth of field.
6. Come out from behind the camera!
Come out from behind the camera! There is so much to be photographed in Africa that sometimes we forget to just experience the place.
By following these photography tips, you’ll be well-equipped to capture stunning images that showcase the beauty and diversity of Africa’s wildlife and landscapes during your safari adventure. Remember to immerse yourself in the experience, savoring every moment behind the lens (and without it blocking your view) as you witness nature’s wonders unfold before your eyes.