P
h o t o g r a p h y
Nature photography is difficult, but we take the guess work out of creating great images.
Our staff is highly qualified in nature photography, wildlife biology, and guiding clients throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Simply put, we know the animals, where to find them, and how to capture them on film!
You can experience Africa with her amazing wildlife and breathtaking scenery on any safari, so why go with us?
Unlike some photo workshops that simply take you to prime shooting locations and then leave you with little or no instruction on how to get the great shots; we aid you every step of the way so that you will end up with better images than you would have otherwise. How do we do this?
Our unique approach first starts with preparation weeks or even months before you even step foot on a plane.
Besides the typical recommendations for equipment, film, and accessories, we prepare you mentally to photograph in Africa.
We get to know you photographically, i.e. your "skill level" and "photographic style", so that we can focus our attention on improving your weak points and accentuating your strong points.
We help you explore various photographic techniques and image styles prior to starting your safari as well as setting specific goals for your journey.
We feel that this pre-trip preparation is the key that will make your safari and your images a success.
Because this is a photographic safari, we will conform to the special needs of photographers.
We will usually be up by dawn and stay out until sundown in order to photograph in “the golden light”. We will spend any amount of time necessary to “get the shot”. Before your safari even begins you will be advised on what equipment to bring, what to expect while photographing in Africa, and how to best prepare for your photographic adventure. During the safari, your photo guide James Stachecki, Ph.D. will discuss advanced photographic techniques and provide personalized help throughout the safari.
Safaris are limited to 6 people in order to maximize the experience for everyone.
We will be riding in 4x4 vehicles that contain 3 rows of seating so that each photographer will have a full row to themselves in which to spread out equipment and gain access to either side of the vehicle, a necessity in order to maximize the photographic opportunities.
Film & Equipment
During our safari a wide variety of photographic opportunities will arise for both wildlife and landscape images. As a general rule you should be familiar with all your equipment and film choices prior to coming on safari. We suggest the following equipment and films to maximize your experience:
Wide-angle (20mm) or 17-35mm zoom (Optional, but nice to have)
Standard 35-70mm zoom
Medium telephoto 80-200mm
Telephoto 300mm
Telephoto 400mm, or 500mm, or 600mm (Optional, but nice to have)
1.4x and 2x teleconverters (for use with "fast" f2.8 lenses)
Tripod with ball head for landscapes, and possible use in the vehicles
Large bean bag (empty-we will fill it later) for use while shooting in the vehicles
Filters: polarizer, warming, graduated neutral density 2-stop
Flash & Better Beamer extension flash
Batteries, batteries, batteries!!! (Lithium last the longest and are suggested)
Generally speaking, for photographing wildlife the longer the lens the better, as you will increase your photographic opportunities. But, having said that a 300mm lens (f2.8) and 2x teleconverter will work nicely. Look into renting or borrowing a 500mm or 600mm lens to maximize the possibilities. I usually shoot with a 300mm and 2x converter. Keep in mind there is no substitute for proper technique and good composition! People with 600mm lenses can take just as many bad photos as someone with a 300mm lens.
Fujichrome Velvia 50 or Velvia 100F: animals and landscapes
Fujichrome Provia F100: great all around film!
Fujichrome Provia F400: animals in low light or to reduce contrast
There is enough light in Africa to shoot Velvia (50 or 100) most of the time, but the option of Kodak 100VS or Provia F100 will give you an extra stop of light. ( I personally do not like the color pallatte of 100VS). Velvia (50 and 100) and 100VS are very saturated, but contrasty in some lighting situations, therefore it is suggested to use Provia F100 (pushed one stop top 200) as your main film of choice. Provia F400 is suggested for shooting in low light situations (very early morning or very late afternoon) and when extreme color saturation is not required or there is a need to reduce contrast or stop action. All of these emulsions can be pushed at least one stop without noticeable degradation in image quality. All are color slide films. For those who shoot B&W or print film bring your personal favorites. 100 speed film will work in most situations, but be prepared. Remember to bring plenty of film because there will be no place to obtain more! We suggest 10 rolls per day or 150 rolls. Use your best judgment, it is better to have more film than to run out. You will need to have your film hand checked on flights. Do not put your film in your checked baggage, as x-rays will damage the film. It is often necessary to run your film through the machines along with your carry-on bag. Although this is not recommended, at times it cannot be avoided. To make hand checking easier it is recommended that all film be taken out of their boxes and put into see-through zip-lock bags.