WHAT IS A PHOTO SAFARI?
28 February 2025
THE BEST PHOTO SAFARI DESTINATIONS
4 March 2025WHAT IS A PHOTO SAFARI?
28 February 2025THE BEST PHOTO SAFARI DESTINATIONS
4 March 2025WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY FOR BEGINNERS
CAPTURE MORE THAN JUST A MOMENT ON SAFARI
Are you captivated by the beauty of the natural world and eager to preserve those incredible moments through your lens? Wildlife photography is an art, one that requires patience, passion, and practice. If you’re just starting out, this guide will set you on the right path to capturing breathtaking images of animals in their natural habitat.
GEAR TO CONSIDER
When it comes to wildlife photography, the gear you choose can make a significant impact on your results. While professional wildlife photographers often use high end, expensive equipment, beginners don’t need to invest a fortune right away. Starting with more budget friendly options gives you time to learn the craft and determine if this hobby truly resonates with you.
In today’s market, there are various gear options. You can start with an older DSLR, a mirrorless camera, or even a high-quality smartphone. Don’t underestimate the power of your phone’s camera. While smartphones may not offer the same versatility as more advanced cameras, they are perfect for learning the basics like composition, subject placement, and visual mass. These fundamental skills are essential for capturing strong wildlife images.
However, if you're a bit more serious and ready to dive deeper into wildlife photography, an older DSLR body can be a fantastic option. Many trusted camera stores offer second hand gear at a fraction of the cost of new models, allowing you to explore your interest without breaking the bank. Renting lenses is also a great way to try different focal lengths (like 70-200mm, 100-400mm or 200-600mm) to see which works best for you. Telephoto lenses are particularly important in wildlife photography, as they allow you to shoot animals from a distance without disturbing them. This way, you can capture the intricate details and behaviour of animals in their natural environment.
LEARN ABOUT YOUR SUBJECTS BEHAVIOUR
One of the keys to successful wildlife photography is understanding animal behaviour. The more you know about your subject, the more you’ll be able to predict their movements and capture powerful moments. Research is essential. Learn about the habits, routines, and behaviours of the animals you plan to photograph. For instance, knowing when a lion is about to yawn or when a bird is getting ready to take flight can make a huge difference in getting that perfect shot.
Spending time observing animals in their natural habitat will help you develop an instinct for when to raise your camera and when to wait for the right moment. This knowledge is also vital for respecting the animals' space and ensuring you’re not disrupting their natural behaviour. Ethical wildlife photography means keeping a respectful distance, avoiding stressing or endangering animals, and never attempting to manipulate or interfere with their behavior for the sake of a photograph.
By understanding animal behaviour, you’ll not only capture dynamic images but also immerse yourself in the wildlife experience. This deeper connection will help you produce more intimate and compelling photographs.
PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE!
When a wildlife moment presents itself, you won’t have time to fiddle with your camera settings. Whether it’s a lion in full stride or a bird mid-flight, time is a wildlife photographer’s worst enemy. That’s why practice is essential. You need to be able to adjust your settings instinctively and without hesitation.
Spend as much time as possible familiarising yourself with your camera before heading out on a safari. Regular practice is key, whether you're photographing birds in your local park, your dog playing fetch, or even sports events. These environments can help you hone your skills in capturing fast moving subjects and refining your ability to respond quickly.
Focus on mastering key camera settings, such as shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. Understand how to adjust these settings quickly and intuitively, so that when you’re in the field, you can focus on the moment rather than the technical aspects. The more you practice, the more muscle memory you’ll build, allowing you to react faster and more accurately when a great wildlife moment occurs.
WHERE TO VISIT AS A NEW WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER
Choosing the right location can make all the difference in your wildlife photography journey. National parks, game reserves, and conservancies are the perfect places for beginners. These areas often offer abundant wildlife sightings and relatively easy access to experienced guides who can help you navigate the terrain and find the best subjects to photograph.
For first timers, iconic destinations like the Masai Mara, Serengeti, or Okavango Delta offer an incredible array of wildlife, including the Big Five, along with relatively easy access to both nature and experienced guides. These areas are ideal for beginner photographers because the animals are often accustomed to human presence, providing you with great opportunities to capture images without startling them.
Joining a guided photographic safari can significantly accelerate your learning. Experienced guides will not only help you spot animals but also provide valuable advice on camera settings, composition and timing. They’ll ensure that you’re always in the right place at the right time, and you’ll have the opportunity to learn from professionals in the field. You’ll also have the chance to interact with other photographers, allowing you to share tips, techniques, inspiration and spend time focusing on post processing and so much more.
JUST HAVE FUN
While mastering your gear, understanding your subject, and practicing your techniques are essential, don’t forget the most important aspect of wildlife photography... enjoying the experience. The process of connecting with nature, observing wildlife, and capturing stunning moments is incredibly rewarding.
Remember to stay patient and remain curious. Wildlife photography is not about rushing to get the perfect shot but about immersing yourself in nature and experiencing the raw beauty of the animal kingdom. Be open to learning, embrace the unpredictability of wildlife, and savor the joy of each click of the shutter.
Wildlife photography is a journey, and with the right mindset, you’ll soon be creating powerful, meaningful images that tell unforgettable stories of the wild.
Remember, wildlife photography is more than just a hobby, it’s an opportunity to connect with nature in ways that few others can experience. Each photograph you capture is a moment of time that may never repeat itself, making your work all the more precious.
As a beginner, the path ahead may seem daunting, but remember that every click of the shutter is a step forward in your journey. The thrill of capturing the perfect shot, the joy of learning, and the deep sense of fulfilment that comes with observing the wild up close, these are the rewards that make it all worth it.
So... Are you ready to start your own adventure? Whether you’re practicing with your phone or gearing up with your first DSLR, the wild world is waiting for you to explore. Let the animals be your teachers, your camera your tool, and your passion your guide. If you’re looking for more tips, guidance, or want to embark on a photographic safari to sharpen your skills, we’d love to help you along the way.
Join the conversation, share your experiences, ask questions, and let’s celebrate the beauty of wildlife photography together. The wild is calling. Will you answer?
READY TO PLAN YOUR OWN PHOTO SAFARI?
Start planning your photographic safari or tour today—contact Wild Eye to find the perfect itinerary or scheduled safari for your next great adventure!