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The bloodless hunt
Photographic safaris
Take one or more of the Big 5 home with you
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
Shooting wildlife with a camera is often refered to as the "bloodless hunt". This term was first used by Polish photographer Wlodzimierz Puchalski.
The unsuspecting impala sips slowly at the water. Nearby a hippo cools herself in the muddy wetness as a hammerhead stork picks small insects off her ample back. Suddenly from out of the long grass a coil spring of black spots explodes. The impala has only a moment to raise its head before the cheetah is upon her.
You fumble for your camera but the lens cap is still on. You struggle to get it off, dropping the camera in your haste. Finally as you manage to lift the lens to get your shot the cheetah is dragging its kill back into the safety of the long grass, the shot gone forever.
Don't let this be the story of your South African safari. There is a choice of photographic safaris in South Africa aimed at both the amateur and the expert. Allow trained photographic guides, skilled at wildlife photography, to share with you all their hints, tips and years of experience. Learn the best places to shoot from and how to get in close for those truly amazing shots.
There is a wide choice of tours, from a 1-day trip up to the Pilanesberg, only an hour and a half from Johannesburg, to a 5-day, north-to-south tour of the Kruger Park where you can capture the Big 5 in all their majesty. If wild cats are your thing then possibly take a trip to the Timbavati big cats reserve or tailor-make your own tour to fit your budget, your tour group or the duration of your visit.
There is nothing quite like the thrill of your friends asking where you got that amazing poster and being able to reply in a nonchalant tone that you took that shot on the banks of the great, green Limpopo.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Photographic safari at Shamwari Big 5 Game Reserve
Web: www.shamwari.com
Tel: + 27 (0)41 407 1000
Email: reservations@mantiscollection.com
Wild Wings Photo Safaris
Web: www.wild-wings.co.za
Tel: + 27 (0)44 871 4070
Email: reservations@wild-wings.co.za
Dave Olsen Wildlife Photography
Mobile: +27 (0)72 150 3375
Email: dave@daveolsen.co.za
How to get here
There are game parks all over South Africa. Consult the photographic safari guides, travel agents or tour operators for more details.
What will it cost
Costs vary depending on the length of the tour and the luxury you require.
Length of stay
Entirely up to you. Book a package tour or plan your own
What to pack
A camera, binoculars, sun cream, mosquito cream, a good hat