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40 Safari Photography Tips For Stunning Wildlife Photos

Written by BELLA FALK

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So you’ve booked your dream African safari , and you’re ready to go! 

I imagine you’re excited for the adventures, the landscapes, the amazing food and the friendly people, but mostly for all that incredible wildlife you’re going to see – and photograph.

But you don’t want to spend all that money and go all that way, only to come back with rubbish photos! You want to make the most of the opportunities that are about to unfold in front of you, and come home with stellar safari images to post on Instagram and put up on your wall. 

If that’s why you’re here – you’ve come to the right place!

Welcome to my top 40 African safari photography tips , to help you bring home wildlife photos you’ll treasure for years to come. 

About my safari photography experience

Hello! In case we haven’t met, I’m Bella, and I’m an award-winning travel and wildlife photographer . 

I’ve photographed wildlife on all seven continents , from penguins in Antarctica to puffins in the UK and from whales in Sri Lanka to sloths in Costa Rica . 

In 2020 I won Travel Photographer of the Year at the UK Travel Media Awards (and was a finalist in 2019 and 2023 too).

My wildlife images have been shortlisted five times in the world-famous Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. I’ve written and photographed for National Geographic Traveller, BBC Wildlife Magazine and Travel Africa among others, and I’ve led workshops and written guides to travel photography and wildlife photography .

Read more: 60+ Awesome Antarctica Photography Tips

But most importantly, I love safari photography!

I’ve worked with safari companies in Botswana and Kenya to shoot images for national publications , and I’ve also photographed safaris in South Africa, Ghana, Tanzania and Uganda (where I lived for three months). 

Throughout all of that I’ve learned a few things about how to make the most of your safari photography tour, and I’d like to share some of that knowledge with you now. 

I’ve tried to write this for beginners and intermediate shooters so I’ve kept it fairly simple, but hopefully there are tips and inspiration in here for more advanced photographers as well. 

Let’s get started! 

Wildlife photography for beginners: some troubleshooting

If you’ve come here looking for Africa safari photography advice, that probably means you’re currently a bit dissatisfied with your wildlife photography.

So first up, I want to discuss some of the reasons why you might be finding your photos disappointing, and what you can do to deal with some of those issues. 

The animals are too far away

If you’re annoyed because the wildlife in your photos appears too small, you need to get closer! You can do that in one of three ways: 

• Ask your driver to move closer (if it’s possible without breaking any rules or disturbing the animal).
• Wait and hope the animal comes closer to you.
• Zoom in. If you’re already fully zoomed in, then you’re gonna need to buy a bigger lens or a better camera. You could also crop the image later, but how much you can get away with depends on the resolution of your camera.

The photos are blurry

Blurred images happen for one of three reasons:

• Camera shake. Use a faster shutter speed to counteract things like bumpy roads or shaky hands.
• The animal is moving too quickly. Again, you need a faster shutter speed to freeze the animal’s motion (unless you’re going for an artistic slow shutter speed effect).
• Your image is not in focus. Modern cameras have extremely advanced autofocussing systems but if you don’t know how to use yours properly, it can and will make bad decisions. Get properly acquainted with your camera’s focussing system, and practise using it!

The images are poor quality

If you’re not happy with the resolution or quality of the images your camera produces, I’m afraid the only answer is to buy a better camera!

But this doesn’t mean you need to splurge thousands on a top-of the range new camera. You can get great deals on older camera models second hand , and many of them are excellent.

I shot this image using a Canon 5D Mark II which you can buy today second hand from Wex , MPB.com or eBay for less than £200.

The lighting is bad: the image looks too harsh, too dark, or too flat

Most safari game drives take place in the early mornings and late afternoons which is when the animals are usually most active. Happily, this tends to also be the prettiest light for photography, but sometimes it can be quite dark. So in an ideal world you should also have a camera that can cope well in low light. 

If the light is dull, flat or too harsh, there are still ways round it. Try changing the position of the car so the subject is backlit, or using a high- or low-key technique to exploit strong contrast.

Learning to edit your images will also make a huge difference: shoot in RAW and then try adjusting the exposure, highlights and shadows, or convert to black and white.

Safari photography tips: before you go

1/ choosing your camera.

Your trusty camera is your window into the wild, so pick the right tool for the job! While it is possible to take great safari images with a smartphone, unfortunately you will be very limited by what your phone camera can do.

If you really want to get those beautiful closeups and soft backgrounds, you’ll need a DSLR or a mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses – or at the very least a compact camera with a good zoom lens.

You also need to consider factors like how much weight you’re prepared to carry, weather sealing (dust and rain resistance), image stabilisation, and how well it performs in low light.

In Tanzania and Uganda’s national parks I used my much-loved Canon 5D Mark IV ; for my recent trips to Botswana and Kenya I upgraded to a Canon R5 mirrorless which has a much faster focussing system with animal eye detection which is a total game changer for safari photography.

2/ Learn your camera

That said, there’s no point in splashing out thousands on a fancy camera if you don’t know how to use it. The best camera for safari photography is always the one you know well and are comfortable using. 

So if you do splurge on a new camera, don’t be caught fumbling with settings when that perfect wildlife moment arises! Make sure you learn its functions beforehand, explore the menu, and practise using it so that it feels like second nature by the time you’re out in the bush.

I took my new R5 to London Zoo and London Wetland Centre before heading to Kenya , so that I could get it set up how I like it and get any teething troubles out of the way in a controlled environment.

3/ Master your camera’s focus

Modern cameras have extremely intelligent focussing systems that take much of the trial and error out of focussing – but you do need to know how to control them or they’ll take over and get things wrong!

It’s vital you learn how your camera’s focusing system works, get it set up in a way that works for you, and practise focusing on moving subjects. 

Experiment with single-point autofocus for static subjects and continuous autofocus (or servo mode) for tracking moving animals. Don’t be afraid to manually focus for a critical shot, but I normally reserve that for when the subject is still and the autofocus can’t cope – such as a lion sitting amongst tall grasses.

Many newer cameras have fantastic animal eye detection AI but it doesn’t always work and you need to know how to take over quickly if it doesn’t want to play ball. 

4/ Pick the right lenses

The lens you choose will dramatically impact the types of shots you can capture.

A telephoto lens (200 mm and above) is essential for bringing distant animals closer – and I’d recommend a minimum of 400 mm. 

Consider a zoom lens for versatility, but a prime lens offers superior image quality at a fixed focal length. Don’t forget a wider lens (24-70mm range) for capturing landscapes and dramatic animal encounters at close range.

Prime lenses or lenses with a wide maximum aperture (f/4 and below) give you more of that lovely shallow depth of field and perform better in low light, but big prime lenses like the Canon RF 400mm f2.8 L are very large and eye-wateringly expensive!

Check out my guide to camera gear for wildlife photography in Antarctica – you can obviously ignore the cold weather and water sections but all the camera and lens advice is pretty much the same.

5/ Take a second body

It’s a luxury, but if you do have a second camera or a spare body, I recommend you bring it. 

Animal encounters can change in the blink of an eye, and you don’t want to be rushing to change lenses when the lion suddenly comes right up to you, or when you want to switch between a close up and a wide shot showing the environment.

The African bush is also very dusty, so not having to change lenses while you’re out and about will help protect your gear.

I always take two cameras – one fitted with a long lens for close ups or animals that are far away, and one fitted with a wide lens for landscapes or if an elephant is right next to the car. A backup camera is also there should some misfortune befall your main camera.

If you don’t have a spare, why not buy an older model, cheap and second hand ? You can get great deals on pre-loved gear and having a second camera will definitely add more flexibility to your African safari photography.  

6/ Protect your gear

If you’re going to take all that expensive gear to Africa and expose it to the dust, wind, sand and possibly rain, you’d better protect it! 

Invest in a decent padded backpack , and a rain cover for when an unexpected downpour blows in through the side of your open vehicle. Make sure you bring plenty of lens cloths and a dust blower , and give your gear a wipe at the end of every day to keep it in top condition.

And don’t forget proper insurance! Most cameras are too expensive to be covered by your travel insurance policy, so check and get separate gear insurance or cover it under your home insurance policy instead.

7/ Shoot RAW and learn to edit

While RAW files take up more space and need post-processing, they capture more data than JPEGs and offer the flexibility to edit your images to bring out their best. 

If you really want to take your wildlife photography to the next level, one of my top safari photography tips is to shoot RAW and learn some editing skills, to transform your images from good to great.

8/ Dress for success

Neutral-coloured clothing blends into the environment, making you less likely to spook the animals.

Opt for natural fabrics or sweat-wicking sportswear that breathes well in hot weather, and avoid bright colors and noisy clothing that might startle wildlife.

Read more about what to pack for safari here .

9/ Beanbag, tripod or monopod?

If you’re taking a large telephoto lens, you’ll need stabilisation. It’s hard to hold a heavy camera and lens for long periods at a time! 

Some safari companies provide beanbags for you to rest on the window ledge or roof, while others have adapted their cars with padded arm rests to balance your camera on. So it’s worth asking before you travel. 

I usually pack an empty photography beanbag , which I can then fill with beans or rice at the local market when I arrive. 

A tripod or monopod can offer even greater stability but can be impractical if you want to change your angle in a hurry, or if you don’t have much space. However, if you have a monopod (and trust it!), you can also use it to lower your camera over the side of the car for eye-catching low-angle shots. 

10/ Don’t forget spare cards and batteries

Running out of power or storage on safari is a recipe for disappointment!

Pack plenty of fully-charged batteries and enough memory cards – you’ll probably shoot way more than you usually do. Consider high-capacity, fast cards for capturing bursts of action, like birds in flight or a cheetah on the hunt. 

Cards are expensive, so I bring just two, and then back up my photos daily onto a portable hard drive before reusing the cards the next day. 

Find out more about my travel photography workflow here .

African safari photography tips: practicalities

Getting the best out of your safari photography begins before you leave the lodge – in fact, you could say it begins before you even get on the plane!

Here are some things to think about before you head out on your safari adventure:

11/ Ask about your vehicle

Not all safari vehicles are created equal. Before you book, find out what type of car you’ll be using. Will it be open sided; will it have a pop-up or a roll-back top?

Does everyone get a window seat, or will some people have to sit in the middle? Is there tiered seating and will you be able to get down low?

Ideally, you want a car with open sides and a pop-up or open roof for unobstructed views. At all costs avoid tour buses or normal-style jeeps with windows that don’t open fully.  

I prefer to book with companies that offer smaller vehicles (maximum six people per car) and a guaranteed window seat. In an ideal world, you’ll be able to have an entire row to yourself, so you have a prime spot no matter which side the animal is on. 

Knowing the vehicle will also help you choose the right accessories to bring: do you need a monopod or a beanbag? Will you have space to spread your gear out or will you need to bring a more compact setup?

12/ Consider a private car

For the ultimate in control and flexibility, a private safari vehicle might be better for you if you have the budget. 

Not having to worry about what other people want to do, or compete for the best angles, allows you to tailor the itinerary to your photographic goals, spread yourself around the car, and get in the perfect position every time. 

Looking for African safari tours? Search TourRadar for a huge selection from 5* operators

13/ Talk to your guide

Your guide is your key to unlocking the secrets of the bush – he or she is the person who’ll hopefully help you find your dream safari animals or get the shots you’re after.

What’s more, a good guide who understands light and angles is probably the number one most important thing you can have for safari photography. So before the trip or when you first arrive, I always tell the company I’m a photographer and ask to be assigned their best photography guide.

I noticed a huge difference in both Kenya and Botswana between the shots I got with a guide who really ‘got’ photography, and the ones who didn’t. 

Chat to them before you head out on your first game drive. Let them know the wildlife you’re hoping to see and the shots you’d like to get, and they will do their best to help you.

When you’re out and about, don’t be afraid to ask if you want something. The guide won’t know what shot you have in mind, so if you want to stop, move on, nudge the car forward or back a little, get a little closer, or find a different angle, just ask. It might not always be possible or allowed, but they will do their best to help you if they can. 

Remember though, that guides, while brilliant, are not miracle workers. If you’re desperate to see a leopard, they will use all their skills to help find one, but unfortunately the animals don’t perform on demand and sightings are never guaranteed. 

14/ Don’t just talk, listen!

As well as communicating your needs effectively, it’s important to listen. Guides are a goldmine of information when it comes to animals – not only in general, but they will also know the habits of specific animals in their patch. Your guide will be able to tell you where and when you’ll have the best chance of seeing a certain species or where certain individuals like to hang out. 

Once you’ve found the animal, the guides are experts at recognising behaviour cues and will be able to tell you if the lion is about to stretch or the hippo is about to yawn, so you can capture the money shot.

In Kenya, our guide Saruni anticipated that this lion would be thirsty after eating and would walk to this puddle to drink, so he positioned the car in the perfect spot and then all we had to do was wait for the lion to come to us.

15/ Get up early and stay out late

Lighting is crucial in photography. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the soft, golden light that creates stunning wildlife portraits, while midday sun can be harsh, creating strong contrast and deep shadows. 

Typically, most safari itineraries include morning and afternoon game drives, as that is when the animals are most active. Make sure you’re ready to go – if you hit snooze or dawdle over breakfast, you’ll may miss the best moments.

Likewise, at the end of the day many safari companies offer ‘sundowner’ drinks and snacks – which is exactly when you want to be photographing. So I always let my guide know that I’d prefer to skip cocktail hour and keep shooting instead (which is much easier to do if you’re not sharing the car with non-photographers who don’t take kindly to this!).

Safari photography tips: framing and composition

16/ think about your composition.

Now you’ve sorted the practicalities, it’s time to think about the images you’re going to take. Don’t just snap what’s in front of you – instead, think about what you want to include or leave out, and where you want the main focal point to be. 

You’re probably already familiar with the Rule of Thirds, where you imagine dividing the frame into thirds and then place your subject off-centre on one of those ‘third lines’ to create a more pleasing composition. Give it a go!

I explain more about the Rule of Thirds, as well as giving loads more general wildlife photography tips, in my Easy wildlife photography tips for beginners post. 

17/ What’s in shot? Keep it simple.

Be mindful of what fills your frame. Where possible, try to avoid clutter and distracting elements like branches or leaves that obstruct your subject. If necessary, change position in the car or ask the driver to move back or forward a little to get a better angle.

Avoid photos with too many elements competing for attention. Where there are many animals together, try to isolate one to three individuals, or wait for the group to space out a little to create a clean composition.

There were many zebras at this waterhole at Leroo La Tau in Botswana but I focussed on just these three to create a simple composition

18/ What’s in the background?

A messy background can detract from your subject. Whether that’s tangled trees or random other animals, try to aim for clean backdrops that don’t distract.

If necessary, ask your driver to move the car, or wait for the animal to move into a better position.

19/ Focus on the eye

In wildlife photography, it’s generally accepted that you should always focus on the main animal’s eye. We want the viewer to connect with the subject, and we are naturally drawn to eyes, so if the eye isn’t in focus the viewer’s connection to the image may be lost.

There are exceptions of course, such as if the eye isn’t visible in the shot, or you’ve deliberately chosen something else to focus on, but as a general rule of thumb, you should always get at least one eye sharp.

20/ Wait for eye contact

Connected with this, notice how when the animal’s gaze is locked on you, it creates an extra dramatic connection.

Some safari animals are curious and will look right at you, so keep your camera poised and ready to click the shutter at that crucial moment when your subject looks right at your lens.

21/ Get low

Sitting in a car, with the animal on the ground, most of the time you’ll be looking down on your subject and the background will be the grass around it. 

It’s not easy to do because most of the time it’s not safe to get out of the car, but if you can get down to the same level or lower than your subject so it’s framed against the sky instead, it makes for much more dramatic images. 

You obviously can’t do this when there are predators around, but if you ask your guide, it may be possible if the animal is a herbivore, it’s far enough away and you stay close to the car. I shot these rhinos by staying safely behind the car, and lying on the ground so I could shoot underneath it. 

22/ Shoot landscapes

Another top safari photography tip to remember is that going on safari isn’t just about the animals.

Don’t forget to capture the vastness and beauty of the African landscape, from the wide savanna grasslands, to lonely trees silhouetted against the sunset, to dramatic mountains on the horizon or reflections in lakes and wetlands. 

23/ Include the environment for context

Show how your animal subject interacts with its environment. Did you spot a lioness stalking through tall grass or a solitary giraffe eating acacia? Close ups can be dramatic and beautiful but including context can tell a different story. 

In Tsavo West, Kenya , I was amazed by the magnificent elephants which are often stained red or orange thanks to the landscape’s red dust. In this image I wanted to show how the elephants’ vivid colour stands out in the dry landscape and is mirrored by the orange dust bath just behind them.

24/ Shoot silhouettes

Sunrise and sunset are the most magical times for safari photography. And if you get dramatic colours in the sky, you can shoot sensational silhouettes. 

Find a recognisable animal – giraffes and elephants are great for this – and then get down low (positioning your car a little downhill is ideal) so the animal’s shape is against the sky and you can see its legs.

Time the shot so all the legs and the tail are visible, and underexpose by a stop or two to bring out the sky and turn the animal into a dark silhouette.

25/ Use the beauty of backlighting 

It’s tempting to always have the sun fully illuminating your subject from the front, but moving round to the other side so the animal is backlit often gives much more attractive results.

Low backlighting at the beginning and end of the day also illuminates grasses and creates a beautiful rim of light around your animal, highlighting the texture of its fur.

26/ Look up and around

Don’t forget to look skyward! Capture African birds soaring overhead, or giraffes munching on leaves from tall trees.

And don’t forget to look behind you too. While everyone is clicking away at resting lions, there might be some hyenas or a band of mongooses on the other side of the car.

27/ Include soft foreground elements

Frame your shot with interesting foreground elements like wildflowers, tall grasses, or branches, using a wide aperture and shallow depth of field to make them soft focus. This creates depth in your image and draws the viewer’s eye towards your subject.

This spoonbill standing by a lake was a pretty boring shot, until I moved behind the bush to create a natural frame around the bird. 

28/ Include cars and people 

As well as taking shots of the animals you see, don’t forget to include people too. 

Sometimes lions, elephants and other wildlife comes extremely close to the vehicles, and you can’t get a clean shot. Embrace this and make a point of it! Shots of animals and people’s reaction to them being so close can give you dramatic images and great memories of your safari photography trip.

29/ Try high key and low key

Playing with your exposure and going for a minimalistic look can add a new dimension to your safari photos. 

High key photography, emphasising bright whites and light colours, creates a clean feel, and can work well on overcast days when the sky is white. A great way to start practising with this is to find an animal against a white sky, and overexpose by a stop or two to blow out the sky and give an airy feel to the image.

Conversely, low key photography emphasises darker tones and deeper shadows, ideal for dramatic portraits. This works best if you have an animal lit by the sun against a darker background such as trees or rocks. Underexpose by 1-2 stops for that moody look.

I mainly shoot aperture priority, so the exposure compensation wheel is your friend here if you want to start experimenting.

30/ Use black and white to convey drama or texture

I love bright colours, but sometimes, stripping the colour away can be incredibly powerful. 

Black and white photography can allow the textures and shapes of your subject to shine – and works especially well with patterned animals like zebras, leopards or giraffes. 

Converting your image to black and white is also great for giving a boost to flat images shot on cloudy days or in disappointing light.

31/ Don’t ignore the little guys

While everyone wants jaw-dropping shots of lions and cheetahs, don’t ignore the less celebrity animals.

Some antelopes have wonderful character and colours, and if you look at your feet you may spot a colourful lizard or a fascinating dung beetle. So keep your eyes open!

32/ Look for natural framing

Trees, leaves, or even the bodies of other animals can create great natural frames which add interest to your composition.

In the image of silver-backed jackal pups below, I deliberately cropped the shot so the body of the standing puppy makes a natural frame around its siblings

33/ Try an unusual crop

You don’t always need to include the whole of the animal. If your zoom allows, why not crop in to draw the attention to details or a single individual amongst a herd.

I’ve cropped this image so you only see the eye and mouth of the mother crocodile, but it draws attention to the two babies sitting on her head.

34/ Be creative

Try to think outside the box with your images. What can you shoot that tells a story in an creative way but isn’t a basic portrait of an animal? 

Perhaps a lone elephant casts a long shadow as the sun dips below the horizon. Or look for reflections in watering holes – the mirrored image can add an artistic touch.

Buy my safari prints

Did you know that all my images are available to buy as prints to hang on your wall? And if you head to my Print Store and something you like is not there, you can simply message me via the contact form or on social media and I can add it for you.

Safari photography tips: some tricks and techniques

35/ aperture or shutter priority, or manual.

Some photographers like to make you think that if you’re not always shooting full manual, you’re just an amateur. Well I’m here to tell you that’s rubbish, so don’t worry.

Yes, you do need to get away from full auto, because although auto can be helpful and gets some things right, it often gets things wrong too.

But the ‘semi-auto’ modes, where you tell the camera your priorities and it calculates the rest, are ideal for wildlife photography. Things happen quickly and unexpectedly on safari, and there simply isn’t time for you to be fiddling with all the settings.

Looking for Africa photography safaris? Check out   these photo safaris  to fin d your dream trip

I pretty much always use Aperture Priority (AV) mode with my aperture fully wide open for lovely soft depth of field, while keeping an eye on my shutter speed to make sure it’s not too slow for fast-moving animals.

I keep my ISO on manual as well, to avoid the camera pushing it right up and giving me noisy images.

You could also use Shutter Priority (TV) mode to make sure your shutter is fast enough to freeze the action, but then you don’t have any control over the depth of field you want.

36/ Auto focus or manual focus?

Manual focus can definitely be useful at times, but in general I always use auto focus. Cameras have extremely complex and clever auto focussing systems, so why wouldn’t you use it!

You do need to understand your focussing system and know how to control it, otherwise the camera may choose to focus on the wrong thing. I use a single spot which I either point at the subject and then reframe to take the shot, or I move the spot around the frame. For fast-moving animals, the animal eye detection AI is really very good, but not always perfect.

For more on how I set up my camera for wildlife photography, check out Using The Canon R5 For Wildlife Photography: A Full Review .

37/ Use burst mode to freeze action

The animal kingdom is unpredictable, and perfect photo opportunities can happen in a flash. 

Today’s DSLRs and mirrorless cameras – and even smartphones – can now shoot many frames per second, allowing you to capture a rapid sequence of images and increasing your chances of getting that razor-sharp shot of a lion leaping or a gazelle mid-air. 

Later, you can sort through the burst and select the image with the perfect composition and action frozen in time.

I used a high-speed burst to take a sequence of images of this leopard snapping a flies so that I could pick the facial expression I liked best (on the right).

38/ Or experiment with slower shutter speeds

Safari photography is all about capturing movement and it can be tempting to go for the fastest shutter speeds possible to freeze the action.  

Why not try using a slower shutter speed and either panning or zooming at the same time, to create a sense of motion and a very different look?

I used a slow shutter speed of 0.3 seconds and turned the zoom as I took the photo to create this impressionistic images of a lion in Botswana.

39/ Be patient

Animals move on their own schedule, and if you get bored too quickly, you may miss that dream moment. In fact, some of my best shots have happened after all the other cars have got bored and left, while we waited and were rewarded for our patience. 

So embrace the waiting game! Enjoy the scenery, listen to the sounds of the savannah, but always be ready to shoot quickly when that leopard finally comes down from the tree or the sleeping lion gets up and goes on the hunt.

Click here to start planning your dream photo safari adventure!

40/ Be a team player

Sharing a vehicle means compromising sometimes. If another guest has a dream shot, or there’s only one good angle on the animal, be flexible and allow them some space, and they should do the same for you.

The same goes for your car as a whole. Don’t be that guy who parks in front or hogs the best spot for hours. You may not get every shot, but life is better when people are considerate of others too – and it’s better for the animals if they’re not being harassed by jostling cars.

Communication and courtesy go a long way in ensuring everyone gets a chance to capture unforgettable moments and has a great time in the process.

And that’s it! I hope you enjoyed all these tips for safari photography.

My favourite travel tools and brands

To help you organise your trip, here’s a short list of some of the brands and tools I use over and over again when I’m planning my travels. You can see more on my Travel Resources page.

• Booking.com : A huge range of hotels to choose from, often with free cancellation. If you book hotels regularly you can earn discounts. I’m on Genius Level 3 which gets me 20% off!
• Expedia : Another great place to find hotels and Expedia also sell flights , car hire, and loads more all in one place.
• Skyscanner : The only place I ever go to search for flights and compare prices.
• Flight Centre : Booking a more complicated route? Let Flight Centre organise it for you (and deal with the drama when something goes wrong).
• Priority Pass: I love having access to 1,400+ airport lounges when I fly, allowing me to enjoy my time at the airport. With my link you get 30% off a standard membership or 20% off standard plus.
• Airalo: Say goodbye to ridiculous mobile roaming charges. Did you know you can now buy an e-SIM , install it in your phone before you leave home, and then use data abroad at local prices? Game changer.
• TourRadar: If you prefer group travel and organised tours, TourRadar has a huge range of fantastic tours from respected operators. They’re very helpful and have 4.5 stars on TrustPilot.
• Viator: Part of the TripAdvisor brand, Viator is another great place to search for group adventures and day trips.
• GetYourGuide: A great place to find local tours and day trips in your destination.
• Wex Photo Video: The UK’s best camera gear store. Quote my name – Bella Falk – to get £20 off your first purchase.
• Ellis Brigham: Looking for good quality backpacks, travel clothes and other gear? Ellis Brigham is where I buy almost all of mine.
• Rentalcars.com: Part of the Booking.com family and the world’s largest online car rental service, with 24/7 customer service.
• World Nomads Travel Insurance: I never ever travel without travel insurance and nor should you!

Where to next?

If you liked this safari photography tips post, why not try some of my other safari posts?

• A Kenya Safari Holiday: How To Plan The Perfect Trip For You
• Which Is The Best Botswana Safari Lodge? My Favourites With Photos
• Kenya Vs Tanzania: Travel Experts Decide
• 28 Brilliant Things To Do In Uganda
• 46 Amazing African Safari Animals – A Photo Guide
• What To Wear On Safari: My Detailed Safari Packing List With Photos
• My Camera Equipment List: What’s In My Gear Bag?
• Is Cardamom House In Vipingo The Best Beach Hotel In Kenya?

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Everything You Need to Know About Planning a Photo Safari in Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

We get a lot of great questions from our clients who are interested in making photography a central element of their safari experience. Here are a few common questions we’ll answer for you in this piece:

• What are the best times of year for photographers to visit Africa?
• How much time do you recommend we spend at each camp?
• Can Extraordinary Journeys help me find a specialist photographic guide to accompany my safari?
• Will the camps have specially-equipped photographic vehicles?
• How close will I get to the wildlife?
• Where can I get access to computers and editing software to use while on safari?
• What are the luggage allowances for camera equipment?
• Will the camps have charging areas for my batteries?
• Can I bring a drone?

When to Visit Africa for a Photographic Safari (and What to Expect)

Generally speaking, we advocate for a slow-travel approach whenever possible, especially on safari. The less time you spend in transit, the more time you’ll have to enjoy your destination, get to know the guides, and—best of all—encounter incredible wildlife. We recommend you spend at least three nights at each camp.

The best time of year to safari really depends on where and when you travel in Africa. Usually, you’ll want to travel in the driest season when the safari experience is most dramatic, typically between June and October.

If you can withstand the heat, we think October is the most dramatic time for photography in Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

In East Africa, photographers love timing their safaris with the Great Wildebeest Migration from June through October.

We especially love East Africa from late September through December. There are fewer crowds, and even though it can be a bit damp at times, the rains only add to the drama. Another great time to visit East Africa is in January and February.

That said, some photographers love the green season: dramatic skies, clouds to soften the light, fewer crowds, longer days, and less dust.

Where to Go for Photography on Safari

Learn from the experts: camps with photographers in residence.

Three of our all-time favorite camps with in-house photography experts are:

• Alex Walker’s Serian collection in Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti
• African Bush Camps at Bumi Hills Safari Lodge in Zimbabwe
• The Jackal & Hide from Natural Selections, located in the heart of the Okavango Delta

Get the VIP Treatment: Hire a Private Specialist Guide

For an even more exclusive photography experience, consider hiring a specialist photographic guide. Here are three of our favorite options.

Wild Studio with Great Plains Conservation — Botswana & Kenya

Wild Studio was founded by world-renowned wildlife filmmakers and photographers, and the expertise of their guides matches that pedigree. Still, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, you’re welcome at Wild Studio. Your private guide will educate you on photographic techniques while also providing key insights and time-earned perspective on the area’s wildlife, their habitats, and the importance of preserving the ecosystem. And at the end of your safari, a storyboarding exercise helps you tell the story of your safari and help spread the message about conservation once you return home.

Tafika Camp — Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park

A New Zealander by birth, Bryan Jackson visited Africa for the first time in the 1970s and never left. Now co-owner and Safari Manager of Remote Africa Safaris, Brian is based at Tafika Camp in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park . He has been guiding in the Luangwa Valley for over 20 years and provides exceptional photographic expertise for specialized photographic safaris, thanks to his keen eye and decades spent honing his craft.

Depending on the size of your group, the fee to hire Bryan Jackson is $400 to $700 per day and includes a private photographic vehicle.

The Hide — Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park

The Hide has an in-house photographer/videographer, Neil Fairlie, a native Zimbabwean and experienced wildlife documentary filmmaker. While Neil is based at The Hide , he’s also available to guests at Changa Safari Camp . Neil can guide tours for groups or individuals, beginners and professionals alike. The fee for groups of 1-4 travelers to hire Neil is $420 per day (for a full day), including a private vehicle and guide, in addition to Niel.

Leave Your Gear at Home: Camps that Provide Cameras for You

Special offer: wilderness safaris.

Wilderness Safaris has an incredible partnership with Olympus . If you stay at a Wilderness property in Botswana, Namibia, or Zimbabwe, you’ll have access to a limited number of camera sets to use throughout your safari itinerary. These sets are free of charge and available on a first-come, first-served basis for exclusive use by guests of Wilderness Safari-managed properties.

The benefits are twofold:

• Travelers get access to world-class Olympus equipment and knowledgeable Wilderness guides
• The partnership supports a scholarship program for secondary and tertiary education through Wilderness’s non-profit partner, Children in the Wilderness .

If this program is of interest to you, get in touch, so we can reserve a set of Olympus gear for you!

Below are a few properties we recommend for travelers interested in taking advantage of the photography amenities on offer with Wilderness (note: Bisate is not part of the Wilderness-Olympus partnership).

Okavango Delta, Botswana

• Mombo Camp & Little Mombo – Each room has a camera.
• Vumbura Plains – A few sets (camera with lenses) plus one pair of binoculars will be available in the main area. Bonus: Wilderness offers a slideshow for guests explaining the partnership with photographic tips and images.

Linyanti, Botswana

• Kings Pool – A few sets (camera with lenses) plus one pair of binoculars will be available in the main area. Lessons will be on offer in the sunken hide during midday when the hide is most active. An alternative option is a photographic experience on the Queen Silvia barge. In the summer months, there will be a mobile hide for the carmine bee-eaters.

Skeleton Coast, Namibia

• Serra Cafema , Hoanib , and Little Kulala – Cameras will be available in camp for guests to use in their own time, with a booklet available explaining how to use the camera, including some photographic tips and tricks. Pro-tip: for expert guidance at these camps, we recommend hiring a private guide.

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

• Bisate Lodge – A couple of camera sets will be available for guests to use on their gorilla treks. The camera will be pre-set in order to ensure that guests get the optimal photographic experience. Tips for photographing gorillas will also be provided.

Beyond the Wilderness-Olympus partnership, several Great Plains Conservation camps cater to photographers and can provide a camera for you. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Zarafa Camp – Linyanti, Botswana
• Selinda Camp – Linyanti, Botswana
• Duba Plains Camp – Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Ol Donyo Lodge – Amboseli and Chyulu Hills National Parks, Kenya
• Mara Plains Camp – Maasai Mara, Kenya
• Mara Nyika Camp – Maasai Mara, Kenya

All of Great Plains Conservation’s 5-star camps have a Canon 5d Mark III or IV with two sets of wide-angle lenses (including 100-400mm) per room for guest use. Guides can do a basic tutorial and can always position the vehicle to maximize the chances for great images.

Learn Everything You Need to Know: Specialist Photo Camps

If you want to learn how to use your camera to its fullest capabilities, a specialist photo camp might be perfect for you. Here are three of our favorites:

Pangolin Chobe Hotel – Chobe National Park, Botswana

For professional, passionate, knowledgeable photographic guides, look no further than Pangolin Chobe Hotel. You’re guaranteed a warm welcome and helpful attention to your photography, regardless of your skills or experience. Plus, incredible wildlife at Chobe make for a wonderfully immersive safari experience.

Zimanga Private Game Reserve – KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Zimanga offers state-of-the-art photographic hides , built in partnership with “The Invisible Wildlife Photographer,” Bence Mate . These hides provide visitors extraordinary opportunities to observe African wildlife. Additionally, Zimanga’s game drive vehicles have a limit of two passengers per row, ensuring ample space for your gear and maneuverability.

Photograph in Comfort: Camps with Photographic Vehicles

For the ultimate experience of comfort, amenities, and exceptional access to great photographic opportunities, a specially-designed photographic vehicle may be just what you’re looking for.

Depending on the property, your vehicle may feature:

• Space for 3-4 photographers (and their equipment)
• Drop-down sides for photographers to lie down and get low-angle photographs
• Three 360º swivel seats, one per “row” – seats also lean right back if required
• Only front and back bars to hold up the roofless obstruction of view for photography
• Beanbags and foam camera rest (photographers advised to bring their own tripods)
• Vehicle kit with a fridge, charging points, roll-down sides for bad weather, etc.
• Lowered center console with raised lid for quick and easy access to lens changes
• Lowered snorkel for better forward views
• Radio aerial at the back of the vehicle for better forward views
• Specially-designed pop-off roof (choose whether you want it on or off!)
• Additional leg room

Several camps offer photographic safari vehicles. Here are our favorites.

• Asilia Africa has photography vehicles based in the Maasai Mara which service all their Mara Camps. They have one in the Central Serengeti for use at Dunia Camp and the new Namiri Plains , one in Northern Serengeti for Sayari Camp (and seasonal Asilia migration camps), and also one in Ruaha for use at Jabali Ridge and Kwihala Camp.
• Mombo Camp – Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Mashatu Lodge – Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana
• Ngala Safari Lodge – Timbavati Game Reserve, Kruger National Park, South Africa
• Phinda Vlei Lodge – KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
• Phinda Zuka Lodge – KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
• Phinda Homestead – KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Get Up Close to the Action: Camps with Excellent Photographic Hides

• Ol Donyo Lodge (Amboseli and Chyulu Hills National Parks, Kenya) offers two photographic hides, one at ground level and one sunken container that faces the water hole in front of the lodge.
• An elephant-proof ground-level hide based at a waterhole, perfect for both beginner and professional photographers
• Semi-permanent hides that are regularly relocated to drying waterholes in the riverbeds characteristic of Mashatu.
• An infinity bird hide where you can photograph seed-eating birds at eye level
• A hide based at the white-fronted bee-eater colony
• Singita Pamushana (Gonarezhou National Park, Zimbabwe) offers a hide near a waterhole that can comfortably accommodate six guests and their guides. The hide even includes an en-suite flush toilet !
• Linkwasha Camp (Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe) offers their Photo Hub experience at their sunken hide. This post-brunch event includes an informative slideshow and cameras available for guest use at tea time.
• Little Makalolo (Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe) offers a Photo Hub experience similar to Linkwasha’s, but the location is at their log pile hide.
• Chamilandu Bush Camp (South Luangwa National Park, Zambia) has a hide that looks over an oxbow lagoon behind the camp, the perfect location for spotting bathing elephants.
• Kaingo Camp (South Luangwa National Park, Zambia) offers photographic hides regularly used by National Geographic, the BBC, and the Discovery Channel for wildlife photo shoots and documentaries. Kaingo features both a hippo hide and an elephant hide.

• Chiawa Camp (Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia) offers two hides, one near the edge of the Zambezi and one near the camp’s water tank overflow. We especially love the option of a night safari in the second hide where guests can use an infrared spotlight and night-vision monoculars to view any nocturnal (or diurnal) wildlife stopping to drink nearby.

Polish Your Work: Camps with Editing Tools

If you want to head home with perfectly-edited photos ready for printing, several camps offer computers with a full suite of editing tools for guest use. If this sounds appealing to you, we recommend:

• Singita Ebony Lodge – Sabi Sands South Africa
• Singita Boulders Lodge – Sabi Sands, South Africa
• Singita Faru Faru – Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
• Singita Lebombo Lodge – Kruger National Park, South Africa
• Singita Kwitonda Lodge – Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
• Singita Pamushana – Gonarezhou National Park, Zimbabwe

Keeping It Simple: Photographic Day Tours

You don’t have to build your entire safari around photography to still enjoy some incredible moments behind your camera. For a lighter take on the full-fledged photographic safari, we recommend a day tour! You’ll get to take in amazing views of wildlife and learn to make better use of your camera while you’re at it.

Here are two of our favorite tours:

Chase the Sun Peninsula Tour in Cape Town

This tour gives you a fantastic overview of Cape Town’s highlights, and the route is scheduled to take advantage of optimum lighting conditions in each stop!

Photograph technicolor bathing boxes at Muizenberg Beach, quaint streets and brightly-colored fishing boats at Kalk Bay, jackass penguins at Boulder’s Beach, the iconic Cape Point, and the granite and sandstone cliff face stretching along Chapman’s Peak Drive.

This eight-hour tour includes lunch and is limited to just 12 guests.

3-Hour Photo Safari River Cruise Along the Chobe River

For a half-day photographic excursion, we recommend this cruise along the Chobe. Opt for an early morning cruise (departure is usually around 6 a.m.) or an afternoon one (departure is about 3 p.m.). Either way, the itinerary is planned around optimum lighting conditions, so you’re sure to get some beautiful shots. The boat provides a unique vantage point.

The cameras supplied for this tour are Canon 80D bodies fitted with 150-600mm Sigma telephoto lenses. If you’re a beginner photographer, the photo hosts on board will set you up and help you use the camera to its fullest potential.

Special Mention

Every camp featured in this piece offers something special and well-suited to photography-minded travelers. But if we had to choose a #1 favorite destination, it would be Tswalu in South Africa’s Southern Kalahari.

The colors in this desert game reserve are stunning, and we love that they offer private vehicles. This is also a favorite destination of one of our expert photographer clients, JP Pollak. Check out his rave review here .

What to Pack: Essential Gear

We all love our iPhones, but we promise: Apple will fail you when on safari. For optimum results and an enjoyable experience, we recommend you pack the following:

• DSLR camera
• A long lens (an 18-200mm is the recommended minimum) or an all-in-one camera with 20x zoom
• Tripod, especially for after-dark shots
• Monopod, especially if you’ll be in a more open vehicle with fewer surfaces to support your camera
• A bean bag on which to rest your telephoto lens (pro-tip: you can bring the bag empty and fill it in camp with rice or dried beans)
• Charging gear: adapter, power strip (though most camps have these), and possibly an inverter for the truck (some have outputs)
• A sturdy dust-proof camera bag or case
• Lens cleaning equipment
• Extra batteries (2+) – you’ll be able to charge them in camp, but it’s best to have extras while out in the vehicle
• Extra memory cards
• Portable memory card back-up devices (no laptop required!)
• Wide-angle lens (not essential, but great to have if you want some landscape shots or close-ups of interesting insects)

What NOT to Pack

Too much luggage.

We recommend that you pack simply and sensibly for your photographic safari, keeping extra suitcases to a minimum.

And remember, several camps can provide camera equipment for you (see above).

Pro-tip: While some photographers prefer to bring along a tripod (especially for long-exposure shots at night), it’s not an essential. Most camps have bean bags to help stabilize your camera in the vehicle.

If you plan on bringing camera gear from home, airlines have several different ways to accommodate extra luggage, depending on the carrier. You may be asked to:

• Book a freight seat for an additional 20kg to 75kg, depending on carrier and route (some carriers charge the child rate, others charge 75% of the full fare)
• Book an XL seat which allows an extra 15kg (fees vary by route)
• Pay a weight-based fee for extra luggage
• Check your bags for transport in the luggage hold under the plane for an additional fee (though with fragile camera equipment, you may want to book a freight seat)

While we understand that drones are great for aerial shots and hard-to-reach places, they’re prohibited in most National Parks and strongly discouraged elsewhere.

The general consensus is that while technically, you might be able to use a drone on safari, it’s best not to bother.

Enjoy all you can from a safari vehicle, photographic hide, or hot air balloon (and there’s plenty to shoot from there!). The drone will be there waiting for you when you get home.

A Few More Important Tips

Be sure to practice with your equipment before you arrive, especially if you’re buying a new camera and/or accessories. The last thing you want is to be fumbling with unfamiliar gear when you could be getting that amazing shot!

Try Some New Techniques

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned expert, it never hurts to pick up a few new photographic tricks. We love these guides to photography on safari:

• Sabi Sabi’s Wildlife Photography Tips
• Singita’s Top 5 Wildlife Photography Tips from our Field Guides

And be sure to check out our own ask-the-experts piece, featuring the photo safari advice of four Extraordinary Journeys clients .

Shoot Throughout the Day

Dawn and dusk are obviously the best times to photograph wildlife. The early mornings are worth it! But consider shooting after dark, too. Just remember a tripod for those long-exposure shots (think starry night skies in the deserts of Namibia).

Put That Camera Down

We know you’re here for the photos, but once in a while, it’s important to get out from behind the camera and just enjoy what’s unfolding before you.

Remember Family & Friends

If you’re traveling with loved ones, be sure to snap a few shots of them, too! No need to make everybody shuffle around in awkward group poses, either. Candids of your kids, spouse, or friends observing wildlife and marveling at the beautiful scenery might just be some of the best shots you take home.

Practice Cultural Sensitivity

As with any safari, the local people and cultures are as much a part of the experience as the wildlife. Be sensitive to the customs, social mores, and preferences of the people you encounter, especially when it comes to photographing them. Some groups may welcome your camera while others may find your candid shots offensive. When in doubt, ask your guide what is appropriate. They’ll help you avoid any awkward encounters.

Sample Itineraries for Your Photographic Safari

Does a photographic safari sound too good to pass up? Check out these two itineraries for inspiration for your own adventure!

• Kenya: Wildlife Photographers Safari at Ol Donyo Lodge and Mara Plains Camp, including a professional photographer guide and private vehicle
• Zimbabwe: Learn to Use Your Camera in Zimbabwe with Pro Guide Nyengedzayi Kazingizi who also has canoeing and boating licenses (for amazing shots from the water!)
• Kenya & Tanzania: Our Great Migration Photographic Safari provides the ultimate photographic experience, getting you up close to the action for the Great Wildebeest Migration with both a private vehicle and a specialist guide.

And remember, we customize every journey for our clients; no two trips are ever the same. If this piece already has you thinking of other destinations and properties, contact us today to start planning your tailor-made safari!

Plan Your Photographic Safari Today!

Ready to start planning your own incredible African adventure? We make the process stress-free and enjoyable. Call or email us today to explore your best options for a safari holiday you’ll never forget!

Then, start packing that suitcase because we’ve got all the details covered.

Planning a photo safari in Africa: 7 essential tips

Planning a photo safari in Africa ? Based on my knowledge and experience as a photographer, responsible traveler , and wildlife enthusiast, I share 7 essential tips that help you plan and prepare a photo-focused safari trip , where it's all about capturing beautiful and high-quality images of your safari adventure and wildlife sightings. 

If you have been on an African safari before, you will be aware of the conflict that can occur when traveling with people with different interests. For people with a special interest in (learning) wildlife photography in Africa, I would recommend looking into a photography safari trip, rather than a regular safari. I wrote an article about the difference between a photo safari and a regular safari .

What is a photo safari?

On a photo safari all circumstances that can be influenced, are created in a way to get the best out of your photography. It’s all about going to the right place at the right times, in different lights, getting the best position to photograph from the right (and different) angles, and spending more time at one sighting to observe and get that perfect shot. The more time you spend with the animals, who are telling their story, the better your photos. On a photographic journey, you will not be rushing to tick off the ' Big 5 ' game animals. You will also be out during the ‘magic golden hours’ around sunset and sunrise.

Apart from that, you will learn from a professional photographer who helps to improve your photography skills. If you are traveling in a group, you can also learn from other wildlife photography enthusiasts. Another plus of photography safaris is that many game drive vehicles are designed and configured specifically for wildlife photography with more space to maneuver.

Joining a photo safari doesn't mean you have to be an experienced photographer. On most photography trips it doesn't matter if you're a beginner, intermediate or professional photographer. Having an interest in photography is the basis of what you need for most of these photo trips. 

Planning a photo safari group tour or private tour

Whether you love to travel in a group or with a private company, there are always a few important things to consider before you book your trip. If you have never been to Africa, I wouldn't recommend planning your safari trip on your own. Feel free to reach out for advice to help you create a personalized travel plan, or to join me on one of my upcoming photo safari tours . 

Now you know what to expect from a photographic safari in Africa, it’s time to dig into the most important things to know and consider for planning and preparing your photo-focused safari. Here are my 7 valuable tips for planning your African photography safari .

1. Create an overview of your wishes

As a traveler, you are the only one that can decide what’s important to you, and how you want to spend your money. 

To make that clear, you need to d o research and create an overview of your wishes . From there, you can start making choices. Consider which aspects are most essential for you. Keep in mind that every aspect can influence the price.

You can make a start by answering the following questions:

• Where do I want to go? (Country, safari destinations, number of places)
• When do I want to go? (high-, low-, rain-, dry-season)
• Do I like to travel in a group or private? 
• What’s my budget? 
• What accommodation can I afford (Budget, comfort, luxury)
• How long will I be traveling?
• Do I want to organize it all by myself or book an organized trip?
• What would I like to see and do?

2. Choose the right time to travel 

As you might know, Africa has a wet and dry season and offers variations of climates and weather in different countries and areas. The dry season in Africa is the most popular as well as the most crowded season. The best advantage of traveling in the dry season is that animals are frequently found around water pools because of the scarcity of water. In the dry season, the temperatures are high and landscapes are usually dry. 

However, some photographers find the wet season in Africa the best time to photograph because of the dramatic skies, green scenery, better light (because of clouds), and less dust. This is also a great period for capturing newborns.

I’ve traveled to Africa in both seasons and in different months. I always try to go in the shoulder seasons , in between dry and wet seasons. Choosing the best time to travel also depends on your personal wishes, budget, and safari destination. Kenya is for example an all-year-round safari destination, while other countries, for example, Uganda , are harder to travel during certain times of the year because of heavy rains. 

3. Choose a reliable and qualified photo safari operator 

After you defined your wishes, it’s time to select the right tour operator or organization to travel with and choose destinations and accommodations to stay in. I always attach great importance to organizations with a focus on conservation efforts, sustainability, and responsible travel choices . I personally do my best to select and collaborate with local organizations and try to look for unique, more private experiences, where they also give back to nature and the surrounding communities.

Do your research to ensure that your trip will meet, or even exceed your expectations.  Always search for valuable reviews, ask specific questions in advance to know what to expect to check the reliability, and follow your gut. If you are planning your first African safari trip, feel free to contact me for help or simply join me on one of my group safari trips to Africa . You can even form your own group of max 6 people to accommodate greater flexibility in addressing your preferences regarding the travel period and dates.

Good photography focussed safari companies will offer a 4x4 vehicle with enough space inside, large windows, and a pop-up roof. The luxury photographic companies usually offer a specially-equipped photographic vehicle with sliding gimbals, removable doors, and photography equipment to borrow. Some companies also have the permission to enter National Parks and Game Reserves after opening hours, which is great for an evening game drive or night photography.

4. Find a guide with an eye for photography 

Normally you cannot choose your guide for your safari, but by doing detailed research, like searching for reviews and references, you can increase your chances of finding a guide with an eye for photography. 

Guides with an interest and eye for photography will understand how to get you in the right position for a perfect shot. They will anticipate the lights and movements of the animals, and they will always find the best positioning for the vehicle. To get the best out of your photography, your guide has to be committed to leaving in the early morning and staying out for a longer amount of time than on a regular game drive. 

Use your guide’s knowledge to capture the best photos. Local guides perfectly know the animal’s habits, territories, and behavior. Tell your guide what’s important for you and what kind of photos you would like to capture. Take advantage of their knowledge and advice! 

If you come on a photo safari with me , I can assure you that I work with highly knowledgeable and qualified driver/guides . And as a qualified guide myself with an expertise in photography, we form a great team to give you the best possible safari experience.

5. The right photography gear for a photo safari

If you are an advanced photographer, I would definitely recommend bringing one, or preferably two, DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) cameras with exchangeable lenses . 

With two cameras (bodies) and different lenses, you can easily switch cameras. For example, when wildlife comes closer, or you want to capture an animal in different contexts, like a wide shot to capture wildlife in its environment and close-ups. In the worst case, when anything happens to one camera, you have a second to continue photographing. 

Zoom lens and wide-angle lens

The best zoom lenses for wildlife photography are in the range of 200-600 mm. Zoom lenses with a focal length of 300+ mm are great for capturing wild animals or birds, while more wide-angled lenses are great to capture the beautiful environment or stunning African sunsets. For a crop camera, a zoom lens of 300mm should be ideal. If you’re using a full-frame camera, I would suggest a lens that can reach 400mm zoom. If you are a keen birder, then the more zoom your lens has, the better. For example, 600mm is perfect for bird photography .

Keep in mind that Africa’s wildlife is most active in the early morning and late evening, which means the lights can be challenging. For that reason, it will be better to bring lenses with larger apertures (f/2.8) and to use a camera that can increase the ISO without getting too much noise in your photo. 

Other photography accessories

Apart from the camera and lenses, it's advisable to bring photography accessories like an external hard drive to secure your photos, plenty of memory cards, extra batteries, cleaning wipes, a charger, a camera bag, and a rain cover. To provide stability for your camera, you can also bring a beanbag, monopod, and/or tripod on safari. 

In the above image captured in Uganda, I carry a 16-35mm wide-angle lens for landscape photography as part of my photography gear

6. Know your camera 

Having the most expensive camera doesn’t mean you’ll shoot the best images because whatever camera you bring, it’s extremely important to know how to use it. You will be disappointed if you invested a lot of money in camera gear and your pictures are too dark or blurry. 

To practice and learn how to use your camera, you can read the instruction manual, watch some tutorials on YouTube, and most importantly  practice with different settings and conditions  before you're going on a photo safari to Africa. Practice on your dog, take photos in a park or forest, and do whatever you can to get more familiar with your camera and its features. It’s essential to understand the different settings to adjust to different conditions. 

If you don’t have the time, motivation, skills, or if there’s any other reason why it’s not possible to learn how to make good photos, please save your money and enjoy the experience. You can try to take photos with your smartphone or a compact (zoom) camera because nowadays, the cameras on smartphones and compact cameras are pretty good. The most important thing is that you have an interest in (learning) photography.

7. Make a suitable itinerary

Photographic safaris often manage a slow and sustainable travel approach to spend enough time at the right places at the right times. The less time you spend in transit, the more time you’ll have for spending on your destination, being in the moment, and encountering and capturing incredible wildlife. On regular safaris, you usually visit more destinations, which means more time in transit. Another big advantage of slow travel is minimizing your impact on the environment and maximizing your appreciation and connection with the local community and their environment . I would always recommend spending at least three nights at each safari accommodation.

For photography, it’s extremely important to have time and patience. Wildlife is unpredictable and not always active. 

When planning your trip, find a good balance between the number of destinations and the time you want to spend photographing wildlife on game drives .

Customized Photo Safari Experience

Do you want to improve your photography skills and travel with like-minded people? You might want to consider joining my upcoming photo safari in Africa ! Contact me if you are interested.

Like what I do? Follow me on my social media channels and  help me grow by sharing or pinning this article and leaving a comment. 

African Photo Safaris for the Adventurous Traveler

An African photo safari is a large investment. Piper Mackay thoroughly understands this because she has been roaming Africa’s wilds, photographing remote tribes and wildlife for nearly two decades. From all her years of logistical experience with boots on the ground and a large network of partners, each itinerary is handcrafted with unparalleled photographic opportunities and immeasurable experiences.

TESTIMONIALS

If you travel with Piper on one of her photo tours, there will never be a dull moment.  Piper is truly passionate about Africa, about her work, and about ensuring that her clients have a memorable experience.  I am not long back from a trip with Piper to the spectacular Gerewol festival in Chad. As always, Piper had arranged a truly unforgettable trip.  From witnessing the arrival of the nomadic Wodaabe tribe members, to watching the men dance and listening to their hypnotic chant, I will treasure my photographic memories for many years to come – GEREWOL FESTIVAL

The Signature African Safari was my first wildlife photo tour. Piper did not disappoint. As the tour proceeded, she kept exceeding my expectations. Her drivers are excellent. Most importantly, they are also accomplished photographers and they know where to position the vehicles for the best light and the best photographs. Also, early in the tour, I requested a review of my images with Piper and she happily obliged. Her inputs were very helpful and my photos showed a marked improvement as the tour progressed. – SIGNATURE SAFARI AFRICA

Piper Mackay truly deserves recognition as an outstanding photo safari leader. She is dedicated to doing an outstanding job and I have never seen anyone work as hard as she does to ensure you have a memorable photo safari experience. Would I travel with her again? Absolutely. Would I recommend you go on one of her trips. Yes – without reservation. It is quite obvious she loves what she does and she cares very deeply that you have a memorable experience on her trips. – GREAT MIGRATION SAFARI

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Svalbard & Jan Mayen

Svalbard expedition.

From Polar Bears and Walruses to Arctic Foxes and innumerable flocks of birds, this photo expedition promises not only unbelievable photo opportunities but memories that will last you a lifetime.

South Africa

Predators of sabi sabi & malamala.

For this particular safari, we’ve chosen two properties steeped in history, and well known for being the epitome of the photographic safari experience, in their consistent delivery of high quality predator viewing; Sabi Sabi and MalaMala.

The Great Migration Safari

The Great Migration season sees over 2 million animals gather on the open plains of the Masai Mara setting the scene for one of nature’s most incredible spectacles and undoubtedly one of the best wildlife experiences on offer.

Sabi Sabi and Malamala Photography Seminar

Enjoy a uniquely crafted wildlife photographic experience at two of South Africa’s premier game viewing destinations. Designed to help you become a better wildlife photographer, this tour is ideally suited for nature lovers and aspiring photographers.

Exclusive Amboseli and Mara Kicheche Safari

With only 3 guests, and private conservancies throughout your stay, this tour offers true exclusivity in two of East Africa's most iconic wildlife reserves.

Treasures of The Lower Zambezi

Enjoy a great variety of activities including game drives, walking through the breathtaking forests, to canoeing down the mighty Zambezi River. All this with incredible game viewing and predator sightings.

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01 Jul 2026 - 10 Jul 2026

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The Great Migration with Hides & Helicopters in Kenya’s South Rift Valley

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13 Sep 2026 - 23 Sep 2026

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8 Nights / 9 Days

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03 Nov 2025 - 11 Nov 2025

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Wild Eye offers photographic safaris, private guided expeditions and custom tours around the world. Established in 2012 Wild Eye set out to refresh the photographic travel and private guiding industries by focusing on providing a professional service that is fun and relaxed while providing guests with amazing travel experiences and world class service.

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Predators of the Okavango Delta

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From R66,795.00 pp

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Masai Mara Kicheche Conservancies Safari

Latest posts, 10 activities for the adventure traveller.

If you are dreaming of a once in a lifetime adventure, it is hard to look past Africa and what it has to offer. There are many people from all over the world looking for exciting adventure experiences and something that they will treasure for a lifetime. Here are 10 must see adventure experiences in [...]

Tuesday June 4, 2024

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An FAQ on the Wild Eye Mara Camp

With "Mara Season" almost upon us, what better time to publish an FAQ on the Wild Eye Mara Camp, than now? And who better to write that blog post than our very own Mara Camp Co-ordinator, Candice Roberts? This is the second year that Candice will be head up the co-ordination of our camp on [...]

Monday June 3, 2024

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How to Photograph Elephants

As photographers, we are naturally drawn to the enormous size and striking silhouettes of elephants against the background of African or even Asian landscape. However, some of the most rewarding opportunities of elephant photography are when we take a closer look at the smaller details, focusing our lenses on the remarkable details and textures that [...]

Thursday May 30, 2024

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Behind The Frame: Arctic Landscape

Are you looking to improve your photography editing skills, specifically your wildlife photography editing skills? if you answered yes, then our Behind the Frame series is just for you! Join our expert photographic guides on the last Friday of every month, as they talk you through various editing styles of many different species from many [...]

Friday May 24, 2024

Trip Report: Namibian Private Safari 2024

What an adventure this Namibian Private Safari was! In my 2022 Namibia Trip Report I wrote the following: " The country is so much more than you would ever expect it to be!" If unimaginable diversity, incredible experiences, raw natural beauty, soul fueling moments, great people, were a country - Namibia!" Having recently revisited, I [...]

Friday May 17, 2024

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Trip Report: Madikwe May 2024

One of my all time favourite places to visit here in South Africa is the one and only Madikwe Game Reserve. In May, 2024 I had the privilege of hosting one of our Madikwe Safari for a week with a group of 5 guests and in this trip report I am going to share some [...]

Wednesday May 15, 2024

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Asilia's mobile Olakira Migration Camp follows the wildebeest migration around the Serengeti, from the epic river crossings in the north to the southern plains where they give birth to thousands of calves each year. As a mobile camp, the location of Olakira Migration Camp changes with the seasons with the camp moving twice per year [...]

Tuesday May 14, 2024

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Sabi Sabi and Mala Mala are two of the most well known names in the safari and wildlife photography industry.  A part of the Greater Kruger National Park, both these destinations offer fantastic wildlife viewing, especially of big cats. Over the past few years I have been fortunate enough to visit both Sabi Sabi and [...]

Monday May 13, 2024

Just a GOOD Story | Chaotic Guests

In this edition of Just a GOOD Story, I look back to 2006 when I was a lodge manager in the Madikwe Game Reserve. This particular group of guests made for an 'interesting' safari experience and when I one-day write my book about safari stories they will be sure to feature. The Safari and hospitality [...]

Wednesday May 8, 2024

Gerry van der Walt

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How To Take The Perfect Safari Photo

The safari photography guide.

Photographing wildlife is always challenging, so we’ve put together our top tips on how to take a steady stream of great wildlife photos whilst  on safari to help capture the amazing sights that await on your African adventure.

Photo Prep Before You Go:

– Take the time to familiarise yourself with how your camera works. Practice using the different modes and studying the result. You don’t want to waste a moment of your trip getting frustrated over how to use your camera!

– Think about the environment you’re going to be in – will you want the hassle of carrying around a tripod,  extra lenses, and filters? For a safari situation, your extra gear may be a touch too limiting and distracting.

– Study the animals you are hoping to photograph. Being familiar with their movements and features can help you plan how best to capture them when the moment arrives… and end up with a safari animal photo portfolio like this .

– Check your equipment to ensure it is not too noisy or distracting for the animals. See if you can turn off the shutter sound, for example, or choose a camera with a quiet one if you’re buying something new.

Tips Whilst On The Trip:

– Be sure to charge your battery and bring spares if you have them, or invest in a few if you don’t. You could be out all day and are likely to be doing a lot of shooting, so start each day with a fully charged battery to limit the chances of running out and missing a perfect shot.

– Make sure you have extra memory cards for the same reason as above. The general consensus is – however much memory you think you will need, bring more! For many, a safari is a once in a lifetime experience, so don’t limit yourself to the number of memories you can capture.

– When trying to shoot a moving animal, switch your camera mode. Sports or action mode are both good options if you have them, as they increase the shutter speed, meaning you can catch the movement without the result being a blurry mess. Do remember to switch it back to normal afterward, however, as this won’t produce a good result for stationery shots.

– Avoid shooting into the light and try to position yourself on the opposite side of the vehicle to the sun.  Ideally, you would like the sun to be behind you, illuminating the subject.

– Turn the flash off! You won’t need it during the day and it can annoy the animals, so be mindful and respect the local environment.

– Don’t put your subject in the middle of the picture. Think about the shot you want and how best to compose it, then spend some time setting it up (even if the animals aren’t yet there). It is all too easy to get caught up in the moment and just start pointing and shooting, but this will not result in the best images.

-Following on from the above point, use the rule of thirds. In a nutshell,  this means imagining your screen as a grid cut into 3 x 3 squares, placing the focal point(s) of the scene where the lines intersect.

Technical Talk:

– For capturing animals in motion, you ideally want a camera that shoots at 5x a second, with a shutter speed of 1/125.

– If you are bringing a Digital SLR along, a long lens is crucial. A 300mm lens will work fine, but a 400mm lens is better for shooting from a distance. For landscape shots, use a wide-angle lens.

– If you don’t think a tripod is practical, take a bean bag or a window-mounted tripod instead.

– Blurred backgrounds can look great, particularly on close-up shots.

– For zoom shots, keep the eyes of the creature in focus, which will result in a more engaging photo that embraces the personality and spirit of the animal. Find out more about some great zoom lenses .

And finally, don’t get so caught up in taking the perfect photo to show everyone back home that you forget to take the time to experience the moment! Put your camera down for a while and make some memories that are just for you.

Interested in putting your new-learned photography skills to use on a safari? Read our guide to photography safaris across Africa.

Interested in sharing your photos with the world? Learn more about how to start a photography blog on 9 Mousai .

Top countries for safaris

• Botswana safaris
• Kenya safaris
• Namibia safaris
• South Africa safaris
• Tanzania safaris
• Uganda safaris

Safari basics

• Safari animals
• How to find the right safari company
• When to go on safari
• What to take on safari
• Safari clothing – what to wear
• Safari rules & etiquette
• Wildlife spotting tips

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• Why are flamingos pink?

Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
• Etosha National Park, Namibia
• Kruger National Park, South Africa
• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
• Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
• Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

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The Okavango Delta is the largest intact inland delta in the world, and is exceptionally rich in wildlife. Often nicknamed the Jewel Of Botswana, this destination is one that simply cannot be missed.

Wildlife Of Brazil

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From 300+ Bird Species, Jaguars, Capybara, Caiman, Giant Ant-Eaters to Howler Monkeys... Join us for 11 days in one of the worlds most incredible wildlife destinations.

Mana Pools and Hwange

Experience nature like never before as we photograph one of Africa's most amazing locations from vehicle and on foot, which promises to produce unique and beautiful images.

big cats - SABI SANDS

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Looking for leopards? Join us in one of Africa’s most productive areas for big cats. This trip is geared towards leopards, but also provides fantastic opportunities to photograph the other 4 of the big 5.

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Everything You Need To Know About Africa Photo Safaris

All you need to know about planning a photo safari in africa..

Africa Photo Safaris: A captivating blend of adventure, wildlife encounters , and photography education, these specialized tours are designed for photographers of all levels who wish to explore and capture the beauty of Africa’s wildlife and wilderness through their lenses. As an East Africa-based tour operator with over 10 years of experience, Africa Safaris introduces you to the magic of Africa photo safaris. For photography enthusiasts, embarking on an African photo safari is a dream come true.

For photography enthusiasts, embarking on an African photo safari is a dream come true. From the vast savannas of the Serengeti to the dense jungles of the Congo, Africa provides a wealth of opportunities to capture stunning images of its wildlife and landscapes. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about Africa photo safaris, from choosing the right destination to essential gear and photography tips.

Why Choose Africa for Wildlife Photography?

Africa, known as the cradle of life, offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife photography. Here’s why: A few questions: where would you go for a first trip to Africa? Are there particular locations/parks/reserves and guides that you’d recommend?

Diverse Wildlife: 

From the vast savannahs of the Serengeti to the lush wetlands of the Okavango Delta, Africa boasts a wide range of ecosystems that support an abundance of wildlife species. Whether it’s the majestic African elephants, the elusive big cats, or the vibrant birdlife, Africa provides photographers with endless opportunities to capture awe-inspiring images.

Stunning Landscapes: 

Picture-perfect sunsets, rolling hills, dramatic mountains, and expansive plains—Africa’s landscapes are a canvas waiting to be photographed. The Masai Mara, the Etosha National Park, and the Queen Elizabeth National Park are just a few examples of the breathtaking scenery you’ll encounter.

Unique Cultural Heritage:

 Beyond wildlife, Africa’s rich cultural heritage adds depth to your photography. Interact with local communities, learn about their traditions, and capture candid moments that tell powerful stories. Conservation Efforts: Africa’s commitment to conservation ensures that wildlife and their habitats are protected. Many national parks and reserves implement sustainable tourism practices, safeguarding the natural heritage for future generations.

Benefits of Joining a Photo Safari Tour

Expert Guidance: Learn from experienced guides who understand both photography and the African wilderness. They’ll help you find the best angles, lighting, and compositions. Access to Prime Locations: Photo safaris take you to the heart of wildlife action. Imagine photographing a lioness and her cubs against the backdrop of the Serengeti.

How to Prepare for an Africa Photo Safari

Choose the Right Time: Research the best time to visit based on wildlife migrations, weather, and specific events. Select a Reliable Operator: Opt for a reputable tour operator like us for Africa Safaris. Gear Up: Bring the right camera and lenses. Telephoto lenses are essential for capturing distant wildlife. Know Your Camera: Familiarize yourself with your camera settings to capture those split-second moments. Create an Itinerary: Plan your days to maximize photography opportunities.

Top Destinations for African Photo Safaris

• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Witness the Great Migration and capture iconic scenes Photographic Destinations for Capturing the Magic of an African Safari. 
• Ngorongoro crater: Best destinations for photographic Safaris in Tanzania East Africa Unveil Africa’s diverse landscapes and wildlife through photography. Explore various top spots, from Ngorongoro conservation are and spot all BIG5.
• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya: Home to the Big Five and stunning landscapes.
• Tarangire National Park, Tanzania : Explore diverse ecosystems and photograph tree-climbing lions.
• Lake Manyara National Park, East Africa: Abundant wildlife and varied terrain.
• Arusha National Park : A water wonderland teeming with wildlife.

Ethics and Conservation

Responsible Photography: Respect wildlife and their habitats. Keep a safe distance and avoid disturbing animals. Support Local Conservation: By participating in photo safaris, you contribute to conservation efforts.

Capture the Essence of Africa

Embrace the adventure, immerse yourself in the natural wonders, and let Africa’s magic unfold through your lens

Equipment and Techniques for Africa Photo Safaris

Equipment: Pack a DSLR or mirrorless camera with telephoto lenses (200mm to 600mm), extra batteries, memory cards, and a sturdy tripod. Don’t forget essentials like lens cleaning kits and protective gear for dusty environments.

Techniques for Successful Safari Photography: Master composition by framing shots carefully and using leading lines. Utilize golden hour lighting for warm, soft tones. Experiment with selective focus to isolate subjects and varying depths of field for landscapes. Exercise patience and observation to capture authentic wildlife moments while respecting their natural behavior and habitat.

Essential Accessories for Wildlife Photography:

Telephoto Lens: Capture distant subjects with clarity and detail. Tripod: Ensure stability for sharp images, especially in low light conditions. Bean Bag: Provide support for your camera when shooting from a vehicle or uneven terrain. Remote Shutter Release: Minimize camera shake for long exposures or remote wildlife photography. Lens Cleaning Kit: Keep your lenses free from dust, smudges, and water droplets. Weather Protection: Protect your gear from rain, dust, and harsh weather conditions with rain covers and protective sleeves.

Techniques for Capturing Stunning African Wildlife Photos

Patience and Observation: Spend time observing animal behavior to anticipate movements and capture authentic moments.

Composition: Frame your shots carefully, utilizing leading lines and the rule of thirds for visually appealing images.

Lighting:  Make use of the golden hours—early morning and late afternoon—for soft, warm light that adds depth to your photos.

Focus and Depth of Field: Use selective focus to draw attention to your subject and experiment with depth of field for creative effects.

Respect Wildlife: Prioritize the well-being of animals, maintaining a safe distance and avoiding disturbance for ethical photography.

Wildlife Photography Ethics and Conservation

Wildlife photography ethics prioritize the well-being of animals and their habitats. Respect their space, avoid disturbing natural behaviors, and prioritize conservation efforts. Photographers should never endanger wildlife for a shot and should strive to educate viewers about the importance of conservation through their images. 

Conservation efforts aim to protect species and their environments, preserving biodiversity for future generations. By adhering to ethical guidelines and supporting conservation initiatives, wildlife photographers play a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices in nature photography.

Responsible Wildlife Photography Practices

Responsible wildlife photography practices prioritize the well-being of animals and their habitats. This entails maintaining a respectful distance, avoiding disruption to natural behaviors, and refraining from baiting or provoking wildlife. 

Photographers should prioritize conservation efforts, supporting ethical tour operators and minimizing their environmental impact. By practicing restraint and respecting wildlife, photographers can capture stunning images while preserving the integrity of the natural world.

Tips for a Memorable African Photo Safari Experience

Timing is Key: Plan your safari during the dry season for optimal wildlife sightings and vibrant landscapes tips and tricks For photographing your first African Safari.

Pack Light, Shoot Big: Bring versatile camera gear and essentials like extra batteries and memory cards the ultimate guide to your African Photographic Safari.

Embrace Golden Hours: Capture the magic of sunrise and sunset for soft, golden light and dramatic silhouettes tips for the best photographic safari in Africa.

Patience Pays Off: Spend time observing wildlife behavior for authentic shots and memorable moments.

Respect and Preserve: Respect wildlife and their habitats; leave only footprints and take only photographs. 

African Photography Safari Tips for Beginners 

Capturing stunning wildlife images requires patience, skill, and a good understanding of photographic techniques. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your African photo safari:

Composition: Pay attention to composition by framing your shots carefully and considering elements such as leading lines, symmetry, and the rule of thirds to create visually appealing images.

Lighting:  Make the most of the golden hours—early morning and late afternoon—when the light is soft and warm, casting long shadows and adding depth to your photographs. Avoid harsh midday sun, which can result in overexposed or washed-out images.

Focus and Depth of Field: 

Use selective focus to draw attention to your subject and create a sense of depth in your photos. Experiment with shallow depth of field to blur the background and isolate your subject, or increase depth of field for landscapes to ensure everything is in sharp focus.

Patience and Observation:

 Wildlife photography requires patience and a keen eye for observation one of essential Safari Photography Tips for Your African Holiday. Spend time observing animal behavior and anticipating their movements to capture authentic moments and unique expressions.

Respect Wildlife: 

Remember to always prioritize the well-being of the animals and respect their natural habitat. Maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing or provoking wildlife for the sake of a photograph.

Conclusion: Africa Photo Safaris

Embarking on an African photo safari is an unforgettable experience that offers the opportunity to capture breathtaking images of the continent’s incredible wildlife and landscapes Everything You Need to Know About Planning a Photo Safari in Africa. 

By choosing the right destination, planning your safari carefully, and mastering essential photography techniques, you can create a stunning portfolio of images that will transport viewers to the heart of Africa’s wilderness. So pack your camera gear, embrace the adventure, and get ready to embark on the safari of a lifetime. Happy shooting.

What is an Africa photo safari?

An Africa photo safari is a guided or self-driven photographic expedition in various African countries to capture wildlife, landscapes, and cultural experiences through photography.

What destinations are popular for Africa photo safaris?

Popular destinations include Kenya (Maasai Mara), Tanzania (Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater), Botswana (Okavango Delta), South Africa (Kruger National Park), and Namibia (Sossusvlei, Etosha National Park).

When is the best time to go on an Africa photo safari?

The best time depends on your preferred destinations and interests. Generally, dry seasons offer optimal wildlife viewing, while wet seasons can be ideal for dramatic landscapes and bird photography.

What camera equipment do I need for an Africa photo safari?

You’ll need a DSLR or mirrorless camera with telephoto lenses (200mm to 600mm), wide-angle lenses for landscapes, extra batteries, memory cards, and a sturdy tripod.

Do I need photography experience to go on an Africa photo safari?

No, both beginners and experienced photographers can enjoy Africa photo safaris. Guides often provide assistance, and there are opportunities to learn and improve your photography skills during the trip.

How long do Africa photo safaris typically last?

Safaris can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on your itinerary and preferences. Many tours offer customizable options to suit different schedules.

Are Africa photo safaris safe?

When conducted with reputable operators and following safety guidelines, Africa photo safaris are generally safe. It’s essential to listen to guides, respect wildlife, and adhere to park rules.

What types of wildlife can I expect to see on an Africa photo safari?

You can encounter a wide range of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros), giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, wildebeests, hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.

How do I book an Africa photo safari?

You can book through specialized tour operators, travel agencies, or directly with lodges and camps in your chosen destination. Research and compare options to find the best fit for your budget and interests.

What should I pack for an Africa photo safari?

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors, sturdy walking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small backpack. Don’t forget your camera gear, binoculars, and any personal items you may need.

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Kenya Wildlife Photography Destinations

Kenya is the best all-round photo safari destination in east africa with several world-class game reserves most notably the masai mara. kenya wildlife photography is not just about the annual wildebeest migration and there are plenty of other amazing destinations and times of the year to visit magical kenya ..

Possibly the most famous game reserve in Africa alongside The Kruger and Okavango Delta it plays host to one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth – the Great Migration.

The Masai Mara , however, is just as photographically productive at other times of the year.

Samburu is Kenya’s lesser known photo safari gem.

So many different and unusual species to be seen and photographed as well as the proud and supremely photogenic Samburu Tribe. As an addition to The Masai Mara there are few places in east Africa that can compete.

Amboseli is one of East Africa’s most iconic national reserves and famous for its big bull elephants , diverse ecosystem and of course glorious backdrops of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Maasai Mara Photo Safari

Join Me For An Experience Of A Lifetime

Just one spot left in October 2024

for the special price of $4,400 for 8 days

Hi! My name is Ivan Glaser. I am a passionate wildlife lover and award winning wildlife photographer.

I would love you to join me on a Maasai Mara Photo Safari, an experience of a lifetime!

Photography in the Mara

The quality of animal sightings and the photographic opportunities in the Maasai Mara are second to none. This is because of both the abundance of animals in the Mara and, with the appropriate guides and permits, the ability to go “off-road”. As such, you are always up close and personal with the animals, no matter where they are. This makes a Maasai Mara Photo Safari a high quality experience you will never forget.

Where is the Maasai Mara ?

The Maasai Mara is in Kenya and forms the northern tip of Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. It lies in the Great Rift Valley, a fault line which stretches some 5,600km from Ethiopia’s Red Sea through Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi and into Mozambique. It is characterized by a wide valley and a towering escarpment in the hazy distance.

The Maasai Mara ecosystem covers around 1,500km² of the total combined Mara-Serengeti ecosystem of around 25,000km².

Habitats of the Mara

Habitats in the Maasai Mara are varied, including beautiful open rolling grassland, riverine forest, Acacia woodland, swamps, non-deciduous thickets, boulder-strewn escarpments, and scrub. The permanent Mara and Talek Rivers, and their tributaries, flow through the Reserve and approximately trisect it.

Animals of the Mara

The Maasai Mara is remarkable for its great concentration of large herbivores and their attendant predators. The extraordinary annual migration of some two million Wildebeest and 200,000 Plains Zebra is world famous and usually happens between the months of July and October. The impressive annual migration is one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Almost 2.5 million large herbivores together with the smaller species inhabit the Mara ecosystem and, according to UNESCO, Mara has the largest number of savannah species in the world. It has over, 650,000 gazelle, 62,000 buffalo, 64,000 impala, 60,000 topi, 7,500 hartebeest, 7,000 giraffe, 3,000 eland and 4,000 elephant . There are particularly large numbers of Lion, Spotted Hyena, Cheetah, Leopard as well as populations of the threatened black rhinoceros and African hunting dog. There are also an abundance of uncounted antelope, hippo and warthog.

More than 500 bird species can be found in the Mara, including 53 birds of prey species.

How did the Mara get it’s name ?

The Maasai Mara game reserve is named in honour of the Masai people, the ancestral inhabitants of the land. “Mara” is a local Maasai word meaning “spotted” and is called this due to the many short bushy trees which dot the landscape.

Interested in visiting the Mara ?

Take your first step to going on a Maasai Mara Photo Safari by visiting my Safari page for more information.

The Maasai Mara & The Great Migration

I was born in South Africa and at an early age developed a deep passion for African wildlife and wildlife photography, a passion that I love sharing with others through both my photography and by hosting guided Safaris to African game parks.

Professionally, I spent most of my career as the Asia Pacific Chief Information Officer of a global Advertising Agency.

Now retired and living in Australia, I am pursuing my passion for wildlife and wildlife photography with vigour by making trips back to Africa as regularly as I can and invite you to join me on one (or more) of them for an experience of a lifetime.

Thank you for taking the time to visit and browse through my website.

Although there are many amazing game parks in Africa, I have a particular love of Kenya’s Maasai Mara. I would describe the Maasai Mara experience as like being in your own National Geographic show. The quality of sightings and the photographic opportunities are second to none. It’s an experience of a lifetime.

I regularly arrange trips for small groups of people to the Maasai Mara. If you are interested in joining me on one of them, please see my Safari page.

Safari Suit & Dresses

Navy blue male men safari suit.

Pattern : Plain

Sleeve Type : Half Sleeves

Fit : Regular Fit

Wash Care : Machine wash

K N R Uniform

Men safari suit.

Fabric : Cotton

Color : Black

Saksham Enterprises

Plain black tuxedo suit.

Size : S, M, L, XL, XXL

Wash Care : Dry clean

Sleeves Type : Full Sleeves

Dark Blue Security Safari Suit, Cotton

Size : S, M, L, XL

Color : Dark Blue

Society Centre

3-piece suit festive safari suits, size: large.

Color : Blue

Style : 3-Piece Suit

Occasion : Festive

With Jacket : YES

Mahalaxmi Textile Mills

Grey matty safari suit.

Color : Grey

S. R. Royals

Brown plain safari suit.

Sleeves Type : Half Sleeve

Brand : Ankit Enterprises

Ankit Enterprises

Grey security guard safari suit.

Packaging Type : Poly Pack

Wash Care : Hand Wash

Closure Type : Buttons

Regal Uniforms

Fabric : Cotton Blend

Pattern : Solid

Fit : Tailored Fit

Wash care : Hand wash

Saasha Garments

Grey linen safari suit.

Deep Fashion

Grey gaurd safari suit.

Khushi Apparels

Brown plain raymond safari suit.

Color : Brown

Design : Plain

Occasion : Formal Wear

Guru Nanak Traders

Navy blue safari suit.

Color : Navy Blue

Shri Balaji Uniforms

Security guard safari jacket.

Fabric : Polyester

Product Type : Safari suit

Color : All color

Size : All Sizses

Uniform Cart

Seller Type

Grey Safari suit, Cotton

Set Contains : SHIRT

Country of Origin : Made in India

D K Uniforms

Navy blue men safari suit.

S.S. Uniform Makers

Grey safari suit.

Pattern : Self design

Sri Basava Enterprises

Grey men safari suit.

Fabric : Viscose Blend

Sleeve Type : Full sleeves

Chamunda Inc

Uniform safari suit.

Style : 2-Piece Suit

Size : All Sizes

Occasion : Party and uniform purpose

Nice Uniforms

Grey security safari suits.

Shark Uniforms

Siyaram safari suit fabric gift pack set 2.80 cut.

Fabric : Polyester Viscose

GSM : 200-250

Usage/Application : Formal Wear, Causal Wear, Uniform Wear

Gender : Male

Vaibhavs Creations

Male safari suit.

Color : Any Regular

Product Type : Safari Suit

Style : Any Style

Safari Suit For Security

Set Contains : Full pair

Suitable For : Men

Ideal For : Security Guard

Age Group : 18-45

Yug Enterprise

Men poly cotton security safari uniform.

Gender : Men

Fabric : Poly Cotton

Packaging Type : Packet

Creapil Apparels

Gray mens safari suit.

Size : Medium

Color : Gray

Amardeep Udyog

Nirmal Fabrics

Security guard safari suit.

Accurate Uniform

Grey men safari shirts for drivers.

Dipi Global

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50 cent says lauren boebert is ‘making the white house look good’ as they pose for photo at capitol.

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Multi-platinum rapper 50 Cent made a surprise visit Wednesday to Capitol Hill, where he posed for a photo with controversial Rep. Lauren Boebert — raising eyebrows online.

The “In da Club” singer shared a pic of him with his arm around the legislator’s waist in the White House on X alongside the caption: “Lauren Boebert, Colorado Republican making the white house [sic] look good,” and a winky face emoji.

X users quickly went off in the comments, asking the rapper, “What movie did you guys see?” in reference to Boebert’s notorious Denver theater date with a Democrat in which the pair were filmed groping each other in their seats.

“Beetlejuice beetlejuice beetlejuice,” another person commented, also in reference to the pol’s date.

Boebert was watching a performance of the “Beetlejuice” musical when she and her date were kicked out of the theater over their behavior — including the groping and Boebert’s vaping.

50 Cent, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, addressed the comments on X hours later.

“Wait, wait, guys I took pictures with everyone and all you seem to care about is Lauren,” he tweeted. “What did she do in a dark theater that hasn’t been done, my God ! Hey I don’t have chlamydia by the way. LOL.”

The “Just a lil bit” and “Candy shop” hit master did share several more photos with politicians from both parties on X as he visited DC to advocate for more black entrepreneurs in the liquor industry.

50 Cent, who was joined by famous civil rights attorney Ben Crump, owns the wine and liquor company Sire Spirits.

He also shared photos of himself with several members of Congress including Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), Rep. Troy Carter (D-La.) and Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.).

Boebert shared a photo of herself and 50 Cent on her own X page as well.

“I’d still love you if you flipped burgers at Burger King,” she tweeted. “ @50Cent , I used to do that myself! Thanks for the photo, great to meet you!”

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James corden defended by passengers after exchange with british airways staff, james corden exchange with airline staff ... passengers take his side.

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James Corden wanted to get to the bottom of an international air travel snafu, seeking out airline employees ... and this time he's got the public on his side.

The comedian was photographed at an airport in Portugal appearing agitated with several British Airways staffers ... chatting them up after some travel issues, a welcome sight for others on board.

Sources with direct knowledge tell TMZ ... while he might've looked peeved, he was actually just talking to airline employees and seeking info. There were reports James confronted the crew but we're told he didn't confront anyone ... and wasn't "venting frustration" either.

James was on a plane from Portugal to the UK, but the passenger jet had to make an emergency landing in Lisbon after a mechanical issue with the wings ... with passengers saying they were told to brace for impact and possibly head for the emergency exits.

Once on the ground, James and his fellow fliers reportedly were kept on the plane for 3 hours as it sat on the tarmac ... a sure recipe for sowing discontent among travelers.

The process didn't get much smoother once they were let off the plane, JC and others were herded to an immigration area but there were no BA staffers directing them and it turned into another big mess.

James was photographed speaking with the airline crew, and people who were on the flight defended his actions to media outlets ... a contrast to some of James' prior public spats, like his old beef with a NYC restaurant owner .

This time, the travelers say James was totally in the right for his exchange with British Airways staffers ... and they say he also provided the entertainment during the 3-hour ordeal on the tarmac, telling jokes and taking pics as he walked up and down the aisle.

We reached out to British Airways ... so far no word back.

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