The African bush has yielded some of my most unforgettable photographs. Its unparalleled landscapes and captivating wildlife is truly a haven for photographers, like me. Join me as I share insights and updated tips in this guide to photographing your first African safari!
Choosing the Right Camera
Photography on an African safari requires the right tools, and selecting the perfect (for you) camera is paramount. Among my trusted companions – Nikon z7ii, Nikon D750, and Nikon D850 – the lightweight and versatile Nikon z7ii stands out as a great option depending on your budget. Its swift performance, vibrant color reproduction, and adaptability to various lighting conditions make it an ideal choice for capturing the diverse landscapes and wildlife encounters in Africa.
There are other Nikon cameras that will offer you similar great quality for less money. Determining your budget will also help narrow down your camera choices. Additionally, there are options to rent.
Helpful Tip: Regardless of your camera choice, invest time in understanding its features through reading manuals, watching tutorials, and experimenting with settings to build a solid foundation for your photographic journey.
Choosing the Right Lenses for Versatility
Capturing the diverse wildlife in their natural habitat demands the right lenses.
Invest in Versatility
Instead of splurging on a mega-zoom lens, opt for a versatile zoom lens that covers a broad focal range. This ensures you’re equipped for various scenarios without unnecessary bulk.
Rent for Special Occasions
For specific scenarios requiring more powerful zoom capabilities, consider renting specialized lenses. This provides access to the necessary equipment without a long-term investment.
Helpful Tip: Make sure you know how to get the best out of your lens before bringing it out on safari. The shooting conditions can be challenging enough without you fighting your equipment, as well.
Be Prepared
In order to get the most out of your time out in the bush, understanding the distinct timeframes during a safari is crucial.
Morning Game Drive: Embark on the early morning game drive, typically around 5 or 6 am. This venture offers a breathtaking sunrise, casting wildlife in soft, golden hues. Adjust your camera settings, such as a lower ISO to maintain image quality, a wider aperture for a shallow depth of field, and a faster shutter speed to freeze any potential early-morning movements. Ensure your white balance captures the warm tones of the sunrise, and be ready to adapt swiftly as the light changes.
Early Afternoon Walks: Some safaris feature early afternoon walks, presenting unique lighting conditions with a blend of sunlight and shadows. Equip yourself with gear that enables swift adjustments. Consider carrying a versatile lens with a wide aperture for flexibility in low-light situations. This setting calls for a balance in exposure, adjusting shutter speed to freeze motion while maintaining an optimal aperture for depth of field. Be attuned to the interplay of light and shadows, enhancing your ability to capture dynamic and visually striking images.
Late Afternoon Game Drive: As the sun begins its descent around 4 pm, embark on the late afternoon game drive. This is a prime time to capture the warm glow of the African sunset. Adjust your camera settings to accommodate diminishing light, possibly increasing ISO while maintaining a wide aperture. Consider utilizing bracketing techniques to capture the full dynamic range of the scene. Use spot metering to focus on specific elements, ensuring your camera settings harmonize with the changing light conditions.
These distinct timeframes offer a spectrum of lighting conditions, each providing an opportunity to showcase both the magical atmosphere and your prowess in navigating the technical intricacies of wildlife photography.
Camera Gear and Logistics
Ensuring a smooth transition while traveling with your camera gear is pivotal in preparing for your safari adventure. Take heed of specific airline requirements, especially when dealing with more regional airlines, like Airlink.
Verify Airline Requirements
Smaller planes often impose stringent luggage restrictions, making it crucial to triple-check your airline’s stipulations. For instance, airlines like Airlink may have particular size and weight limits for both carry-on and checked luggage. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines to avoid any hiccups in your travel plans.
Pack with Precision
Prioritize packing essentials, focusing on versatile clothing and the necessary camera equipment. Opt for a soft duffel bag, ensuring not only flexibility but also added protection for your gear during transportation. This strategic packing approach will allow you to navigate through your safari journey seamlessly, ready to capture every moment without the encumbrance of excess baggage.
Shooting Video on Safari
While still photography is a primary focus on safari, incorporating video elements enhances the overall storytelling. Capturing video on safari requires a thoughtful approach.
Bring along a small, portable, and durable tripod like the Joby Gorilla for stable video shots, ensuring versatility in your shooting angles.
Develop a steady hand for handheld shooting, particularly during dynamic wildlife encounters. While GoPros are convenient, consider using more advanced video equipment for superior quality. Strike a balance between capturing the mesmerizing landscapes through both photography and video, enhancing your ability to share the incredible journey with others.
Helpful Tip: Your camera might have beautiful 4K video capabilities, meaning you can use it for video and photos.
Responsible Drone Usage
Drones present an enticing opportunity for aerial perspectives, but their use demands careful consideration during an African safari. Before launching your drone, thoroughly research and comply with local regulations, keeping in mind that, in many cases, drones are not allowed in national parks.
South Africa, as a pioneer, has implemented a comprehensive ban on unmanned aerial vehicles in all its national parks.
It’s essential to familiarize yourself with these regulations to ensure compliance and avoid legal complications. Additionally, exercise caution to prevent disturbing wildlife with drone noise, maintaining a safe distance, and using your drone responsibly to minimize any impact on the natural behavior of animals. While drones can offer unique viewpoints, their use in wildlife-rich environments requires a delicate balance between capturing stunning visuals and respecting the sanctity of the natural habitat.
Always prioritize the well-being of the wildlife and adhere to the specific regulations of the region you are exploring.
Helpful Tip: Make sure to discuss all drone base regulations with your travel agent and the management at your camps before bringing your drone with you. Research the drone regulations of your destination before ever bringing your drone with you on the plane. This will help avoid unnecessary stress and the potential loss of your equipment.
Research, Research, Research
To ensure a fulfilling safari experience, comprehensive research becomes your invaluable ally.
Four key areas demand your attention:
- Photography Goals
Define your photography goals with precision. Develop a clear vision of the shots you wish to capture. Conduct thorough research on the wildlife species you’re likely to encounter, strategically planning shots that showcase their behavior and natural habitat. - Wildlife Knowledge
Dive into a wealth of information about the diverse wildlife inhabiting the safari destination. Familiarize yourself with the habits, habitats, and characteristics of the animals you’re hoping to photograph. This knowledge will empower you to anticipate movements and capture more compelling images. - Cultural Awareness
Cultivate cultural awareness as an integral part of your research. Respect local customs, seek permission before photographing people, and avoid capturing sensitive subjects. Ensure that your photography not only preserves the natural beauty but also contributes positively to the local experience. - Weather and Terrain
Research the climate and terrain of the safari location. Understand seasonal variations, potential weather challenges, and how the landscape changes throughout the year. This knowledge will equip you to adapt your photography techniques to the specific conditions you’ll encounter, enhancing the overall quality of your safari shots.
Don’t Forget to Live in the Moment
In the midst of capturing the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, don’t forget to soak it all in. Put your camera down every once in a while and truly immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and vibe of the African wilderness. Take a moment to appreciate the raw beauty and the diverse life around you. Balancing the art of photography with simply being present ensures that you not only snap incredible pictures but also create memories that go beyond what any lens can capture.
As you roam the wild terrains of Africa, let each shot be a reminder of the unique and awe-inspiring experiences that shape an African safari.
