Making the Magic Happen
Being surrounded by great subjects and holding a great camera and lens combo in your hands is just the beginning. Thinking, learning, mastering technique and experimenting take your photos to the next level. These are some of the concepts I like to keep in mind before heading out into the field.
Act fast to catch fleeting action
These rhinos were spooked by another vehicle behind them down the road. Rhinos do not have good eyesight and thus did not see our vehicle stopped in the path. I had only seconds to raise my camera before they either saw us and veered off or our driver took evasive action. A great moment for image stabilization and autofocus.
Search for character in each subject
Find a way to use every moment and pose because each could reveal what is unique to this animal. I snapped many photos of this lion cub, but showing the anatomy of her paw tells a story of power and adaptation to her environment.
Being prepared
I was glad I had my 17 – 35mm lens in my pack when we made this unexpected discovery. The guides have keen eyes for the camouflaged and the small. They love to share all creatures no matter the size. This guy was crossing the road and would not have made it if not for a sharp-eyed driver.
Communicate through patterns and textures
So many patterns are emblematic of Africa. Make and effort to capture the colors and textures , and patterns that make Africa and its wildlife special. A cheetah’s spots, the tracks of a dung beetle, and the color of the grass are all part of the canvas.
Know your subject and be patient
The elephants were very protective of this little one , but I knew that after a while they would grow comfortable with our presence. Sure enough after several minutes of quiet and still waiting, the elephants decided we were ok and rewarded us with play in the mud. Patience let me get a shot of the calf finally getting the water in his mouth - just like mom.
Examine details
Study your subject and marvel in the details . They are all part of this animal’s story. This elephant had rubbed enough trees in his long lifetime to wear scratches and grooves into his large tusks
Capture the humor
We often see ourselves or relatives in the faces and actions of animals. Capturing the humor is a great way to break down barriers with your audience.
Persistence pays off
It took many sunsets until I had the right combination of arriving at the right time, and the right settings. Experimentation and improving composition finally yielded my vision for this sunset photo
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