Capturing the Wild: 10 Essential Tips for Amateur Wildlife Photographers on Safari in Africa

With few exceptions, every avid wildlife photographer dreams of going on a safari in Africa. Its bold colors, exceptional light, iconic wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery are a photographer’s dream scenario. Even so, it is not just a matter of showing up and pressing the shutter release. Every credible photographer agrees that great images are a combination of elements coming together. However, we’ve all got to start somewhere, so we’ve compiled some essential tips to help guide you and hopefully return with images that are more than just a record of your travels.

Tip 1: Research and Gear Preparation:

Take some time to research your destination and get familiar with the wildlife of the area. When making your booking, specify that you are a photographer and ask if the various service providers cater to photographers.

As much as they’ve evolved, your phone camera probably won’t suffice. Perhaps the most cost-effective option is a bridge camera, which combines compact design and powerful zoom capabilities. If you already have gear, there will be a limit to the amount you can take due to baggage limits. A tripod is not essential. Rather opt for a camera clamp or bean bag for additional stability. Carry your gear in a soft but robust camera bag/backpack. If night drives are permitted at your destination, a good flash will be required.

Tip 2: Understanding Animal Behavior:

The key to extraordinary wildlife photography lies in observing and understanding animal behavior. The patience to wait for that perfect moment is your secret weapon. In this respect, your guide or driver is your best ally. Take time to explain what you’re hoping to achieve with your images. Be mindful of those traveling with you – waiting indefinitely next to sleeping lions soon gets boring. Remember, the only predictable thing about wildlife is its unpredictability.

Tip 3: Choosing the Right Lenses:

If you have them, we suggest a wide-angle zoom (e.g. 24-105mm) and a telephoto zoom with a focal length of at least 300mm. If you have the luxury of a private vehicle and the space it affords, a greater selection of lenses and gear can be handy. If possible, take two cameras – equipped with small and large lenses respectively. This will ensure that you are ready to shoot as circumstances dictate and allow you to tell different stories through your photos, giving viewers a well-rounded experience of the African wilderness.

Tip 4: Mastering Composition:

Composition is the difference between good and great images. Remember the rule of thirds – placing your subject off-center to create balance and interest. Utilize leading lines to guide the viewer’s eye. Experiment with angles and perspectives. Resist the urge to zoom in excessively. Use a mix of focal lengths to capture your subject both in detail and in its environment.

Tip 5: Working with Light:

Typically, wildlife is most active when it is cooler. For this reason, most lodges conduct game-viewing activities in the early morning and late afternoon, occasionally continuing after dark. It so happens that this coincides with the so-called ‘golden hour’. Lighting is the magical ingredient that can make or break your photograph. The soft, warm hues of sunrise and sunset can transform an ordinary scene into a breathtaking one. While midday light can be harsh, keep your camera handy in case there is a dramatic moment worth capturing.

Tip 6: Utilizing Natural Settings:

Don’t just focus on your subject – incorporate the environment into your shots. A lone tree in the savannah or a drinking hole surrounded by animals can add context and depth to your photographs.

Tip 7: Patience and Persistence:

Wildlife photography is a true test of patience. The shot you’re seeking might not happen immediately. So, embrace the wait. Patiently observing and waiting for that moment when the lion cubs playfully pounce on each other or when a herd of zebras gallops across the plain can lead to the most rewarding shots.

Tip 8: Framing and Focusing:

Framing is like adding a window to your photograph – it guides the viewer’s gaze and adds depth. Position your subject within the frame, using nature to create a visual frame within the frame. Many believe that the eye of the subject should be the main focal point, connecting the viewer with the subject, but there are exceptions. Once your frame is set, ensure your focus is razor-sharp. The sparkle in a lion’s eye or the texture of an elephant’s skin can be the defining details that elevate your photo. Use the lowest f-stop possible, to ‘lift’ your subject from the background and create bokeh.

Tip 9: Capturing Action Shots:

African wildlife is full of dynamic moments, from hunting scenes to animal interactions. To capture these action-packed shots, you’ll need to adjust your settings accordingly. A fast shutter speed freezes motion, ensuring that a sprinting cheetah or a soaring eagle is perfectly sharp. Conversely, a slower shutter speed combined with panning your camera gives the impression of movement. Practice panning beforehand, as it is not as straightforward as it sounds. Don’t be afraid to use burst mode, capturing a series of shots in rapid succession. This increases your chances of getting that perfect mid-air leap or the predator’s victorious catch.

Tip 10: Respecting Wildlife and Nature:

While pursuing your passion, remember to do so responsibly. Respect the animals’ space – maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing them. Unless you are with a very experienced naturalist, approaching wildlife on foot is a bad idea. Your subject will either flee or fight, neither of which is ideal. Finally, take only photos and leave only tracks. By looking after the environment, you ensure that it is as pristine for the next person who comes along.

Embarking on an African safari for wildlife photography is a privilege that offers a unique blend of challenges and rewards. Armed with these ten invaluable tips, you’re now prepared to capture the untamed beauty, raw emotions, and sheer majesty of Africa’s wildlife. Your camera will become a storyteller, narrating the mesmerizing chapters of the wilderness. So, embrace the wild, be patient, and let your lens capture the remarkable tales of the African savannah.