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LivingNotes
PROFESSIONAL CAMERA TIPS Whether you are an experienced professional photographer or just a hobbyist, here are a few essential tips to ensure your safari expedition is a success: • Having a Telephoto lens is a must. This is the key to having one-of-a-kind shots in the wild, where the animal won’t let you get close. • Have at least 2 cameras geared up and ready to go if you are using zoom lenses. At least 3 ( better 4) if you shoot with primes. Time is everything. In 99% of cases you simply don’t have the luxury of changing the lens. • Learn to adjust settings without looking at the display. Make it instinctual. The light can change rapidly, and the ability to quickly adjust is the key to saving the shot. • Figure out if there is a “kick” in your camera + lens combination and what the margin is ( a “kick” is when your frame is slightly different between what you see and the final image capture. A common occurrence when using a heavy lens) Fine tune your focus to adjust for a kick. It will ensure that your frames are always perfect and in focus. • Bring a tripod and monopod. Monopod will save you when trying to get the right shot from the car. • Make use of the lens hood, polarized filters and a graduated ND filter. A graduated ND filter will help to reduce the amount of light that reaches your camera, which can be helpful for taking photos in bright conditions. Find some of our favorites here. • Make friends with the rangers. This is the most important tip that will allow you to get the images you dream about. Many places where you capture a unique shot are away from regular tourist routes but often rangers have some options for professional photographers. • Above all, be patient and HAVE FUN! It can take time to get the perfect shot. Be patient and do not be afraid to experiment. Have fun with it. After all, if you are not having fun then you are not doing it right!
