If you’re a photographer with patience and determination (and a good camera), then wildlife photography might be right up your alley. An African safari offers incredible sights and memories and capturing these moments on film truly makes these experiences unforgettable!

Be ready

Animals and birds are movers. They don’t often stay in one place for a long time, and when they are aware of another body, they are faster to move. Safari scenes can last only a few minutes and before you know it, your subject can be gone. Be prepared for this by being quick to set up, frame and get your winning shot.

Being able to do this takes practice so practice on birds and animals at home and learn how to anticipate their behaviour so you can react quickly.

Another way to prepare yourself is by learning about the wildlife you will be encountering, knowing how to look out for them and what behaviour to expect. Be aware of the sounds, colours and smells that can alert you of your subjects.

When

Early mornings and late afternoons, just before dark, are the best times to shoot wildlife as the light is dramatic and wildlife is most active.

Techniques

Shoot with the sun behind you, ensuring the light falls on your subject.

Focus sharpest on their eyes.

Shoot small animals from a lower angle to accentuate their size. Get as low as lying on your stomach and move slowly to get close enough to your subject. Take a three-quarter portrait with an attractive, out-of-focus background.

Equipment

A 500 or 600mm lens is most commonly used but these are rather bulky, heavy and expensive so a shorter and wider lens is often more suitable. If possible, have options. A moderate zoom, for example, helps you to frame the scene quickly and handholding lenses allow you to follow birds and animals in action.

A digital SLR body with a sensor smaller than a single frame of 35mm film multiplies the effective focal length of your intermediate telephoto lens with no loss in speed. Add a 1.4X teleconverter for 40% more focal length.

Telephoto lenses brings you closer to the animals without scaring them. A tripod is not necessary if have enough light to shoot at a fast shutter speed to eliminate shake. Some telephoto lenses have vibration reduction technology but they can cause a major dent in your wallet.

Of course, remember at all times to have fully charged camera batteries and plenty of film or memory.

Lastly…

Be patient. Nature will do what it wants when it wants.

Be prepared. Have your camera ready for every opportunity.

Be safe. Have common sense and don’t get too close to dangerous or protective animals. Remember, bigger animals can be photographed from further away.

Take a look at some of the amazing wildlife scenes Hannes Lochner has caught on camera for inspiration.