An African safari can be a once in a lifetime experience, and something you want to remember after returning home.
Photos are one of the best ways to preserve your memories: but only if you can take a few good shots.
There's nothing worse than opening the files of your camera on your computer back at home, only to discover that many of your photos are just incredibly brown spots. It’s like losing your chances in real money slots for South Africa.
Instead, you need bright, simple images that show your experiences as you remember them.
If you are concerned that your photographic skills may not be good, read some basic tips on how to take the best photos for your African adventure.
Harsh conditions
Even the most experienced photographers can be clumsy, when it comes to various challenges African nature offers. The optimal time to shoot is morning, when the light is often limited. To compensate for this, your camera will need a slow layer speed, which can lead to unstable images (especially if your device is moving).
Set, Ready, Go!
Other potential difficulties include the fact that you can't place wild animals where you want, and the fact that shooting from a car or a bike, may make it hard to take proper photos too.
Choose the right camera
Many of these issues described above can at least be handled if you choose the right camera.
The best camera for you depends entirely on your budget and how much heavy machinery you are willing to carry.
Traditionally, DSLR cameras offer a range of interchangeable lenses to achieve the best results, producing complex images, lower light resistance and greater flexibility, which is supplied manually.
However, compact cameras have reached a stage where higher tiers compete in terms of DSL quality, offering convenience at both light and prices.
Before making a specific decision, make sure your requirements best fit your needs, do some research online or contact a specialist.
Planning your shoot
Sometimes, more than having the right equipment, it’s important to have a good eye.
The digital era allows you to take hundreds of photos at the same time, but instead of blind clicking, pay attention to the composition that will represent the most interesting image.
As a rule, avoid shooting from above, try to take photos of the same level or from below.
Accessories
Accessories are a photographer's best friend and can help your images in addition.
If you're going to shoot with a telephoto lens, consider buying (or making) a bean bag for the lens while shooting from the car window.
This will help reduce lens shake, preventing excessive damage.
Whatever type of camera you choose, you'll need certain accessories.
Traveling in Africa is dusty, and even the tiniest particle of sand might damage your camera's internal mechanisms. Therefore, strong dust proof is required for enhanced photographers.
Also, you never know how long it will take you to get out of the field (especially if you're tempted once in a lifetime). So make sure you have spare batteries and memory cards on hand.
Start the journey
For best results, consider a place in a special photo park with experts who can guide you in the area. Otherwise, go with a guide who only takes a small group of people who meet certain criteria.
While some countries (like South Africa) offer the freedom of independent travel, a guided trip is a good idea if you want to find inside knowledge in the best wildlife (and photography) sites.