You have certainly seen some astounding photos of wildlife however, there are photographers who spend hours watching an animal to take that one poignant photo. Doing research, patient and practice, along with these handy hints can assist you in taking home memorable photos too.
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- Before your trip, ensure that you know your equipment and if necessary, practice with it at home to understand it better.
- Insure your camera and equipment before you leave home. During your trip, your camera may be exposed to water, rain, vehicle vibrations and often visitors drop their camera while on game drive.
- Read up about the animals, their behavior and their environment so that you know what to expect. You can also chat to your guide and use their knowledge to assist you.
- If you can afford a good lens for your camera then a 300mm is a good starting point and for bird photography a 500mm lens is recommended.
- A UV filter is recommended to reduce the glare.
- A small bean bag is very handy for resting your camera and lens.
- For those who have a basic “point and shoot” digital camera and cannot zoom too far, aim to take photos with the animals in their natural environment incorporating the landscape.
- Be prepared for a photo as animals appear and disappear very quickly and the seconds it takes you to get your camera ready could cost you a photo.
- For close up photos of animals, set your focus on their eyes, then the rest of the face should be in focus.
- There are plenty of photos to take in the bush so ensure you have plenty of memory available and your batteries are charged or you have spares with you.
- Take photos from different levels and angles to create more interesting pictures. Photos taken at the same level as an animal appear more dramatic.
- Be patient with animals and try to take photos of them being active. If you see an animal sleeping, have your camera ready in case they yawn or move around as this will make for a more interesting shot.
- Consider the background of the photo you are taking and try to exclude fences, other vehicles and buildings if at all possible.
- When taking a photo of an animal, create a space for the animal to move into and do not place the animal in the centre of the photo.
- Never interfere with animal behavior to capture a photo and rather allow the animals to move naturally.
- Remember to enjoy the experience and not to hide behind your camera. Sit back and take in the scenery, the birds and the wildlife.
- Be a considerate photographer and allow the rest of the guests to also take their photos. Alternatively, book a vehicle for private and benefit from having a guide cater to your photographic requirements.
- If you’re using a video camera, be prepared for 3-4hours of filming and have enough batteries for back up.
- Before you take a photo of a local person or a tribal community, it is polite to ask that person.
- Take care not to zoom in and out too quickly and swinging around too fast.
- Video’s pick up the slightest noise so be aware of what you say when it is switched on. If you want to film people not in your party, ask them before hand as not everyone is comfortable on camera. If you would like to comment on the animal you are watching, ask your guide if it is permitted.
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