Capturing stunning images of the Big Five requires patience, the right equipment, and knowledge of animal behavior.
Camera Equipment
Lens Choice: A 100-400mm or 200-600mm zoom lens is ideal. Prime lenses like 400mm f/2.8 offer superior quality but less flexibility.
Camera Body: Fast autofocus and high burst rates are essential. Full-frame sensors perform better in low light.
Support: A beanbag is more practical than a tripod in a safari vehicle.
Photographing Lions
Lions are most active at dawn and dusk. Look for them resting in shade during midday. Eye contact and interaction between pride members make compelling shots.
Capturing Elephants
Get low angles to emphasize their size. Dust baths and water crossings offer dramatic opportunities. Watch for trunk expressions and ear positions.
Leopard Photography
Patience is key. Leopards often rest in trees. Use fast shutter speeds as they can move quickly. Early morning light in the Seronera Valley is ideal.
Technical Settings
Use aperture priority mode, keep ISO flexible, and maintain shutter speeds of at least 1/500s for moving animals.
