Wildlife photography is an art.  If you’ve already tried using your camera from the back of a bumpy game viewer, you’ll know it takes many years (and even more safaris!) to hone your skills.

Capturing great photos goes beyond just setting up your camera.  If you’re serious about your shots, you’ll want to head into the bush with a guide who has an understanding of positioning and light, as well as an ability to read and predict animal behaviour – no easy feat!

Luckily for most, safaris in Botswana are great for photographers.  Game drives are led by professional guides (not just drivers) with a small number of guests in open vehicles to give you as little obstruction as possible for capturing the perfect shot.

If you’re really serious about your shots, we’ve got a few basic tips to help you make the most of your safari.

• Hire a private guide and vehicle. This will give you the freedom to stay longer at sightings or move along depending on the shot you’re after.
• Visit private concessions. You’ll have the flexibility to go off-road and get closer at sightings, as well as fewer vehicles competing for photos.
• Book photographic activities. Pangolin Safaris in Chobe is the most affordable option for photography from custom-made boats and vehicles with specialised mounts, ‘window seats’ on both sides and a photographer on board for some additional tips.
• Research requirements for your camera equipment. Multiple camera bodies and lenses add to your luggage weight.  You may need to book an extra seat on light aircraft to guarantee hassle-free travel for your equipment.

If you’d like to go a step further, we recommend booking a safari led by a professional photographer who can teach even the most seasoned of safari veterans a trick or two.  In return for a little extra cash, you’ll get assistance in capturing great shots from someone who’s made it their career, as well as extra elbow room – departures are kept small to guarantee enough room to swing a lens.

Here are a few of our favourite photographic safaris in 2015.

Letaka Safaris Photographic Safaris

Miracle Rivers Photographic Workshop

6 nights exploring Moremi and Khwai

Led by James Gifford

18-24 April 2015

$3850 USD per person

Northern Highlights

9 nights exploring Moremi, Khwai and Savuti – ends in Chobe

Led by James Gifford

13-21 November 2015

$4795 USD per person

Wildlight Photographic Safaris

Botswana Photographic Safari

9 nights exploring Khwai, Savuti and ending in Chobe

Led by Steve Stockall and Dean Fitzpatrick

30 Aug – 08 September

$7960 USD per person

OR Led by Chris McLennan

11-20 September 2015

$9960 USD per person

Contact us for more information on these departures and current availability.