You've dreamed of a wildlife Africa safari for years " and now its finally going to happen. You see yourself taking National Geographic camera shots. You wonder how to get a close-up of a lion, the way the professionals do. But did you know that if you visit a game reserve such as Amboseli or Kenya Mara, you most likely wont even get the chance? Its strictly the rule in such places nowadays that no vehicle shall stray from the beaten track.
There's no alternative but long-distance shots " but don't even think of using your zoom. Its mostly likely not nearly powerful enough. However, if you really want to get that extra-special close-up, there is a solution " a telephoto lens. 300 mm. is the place to start: 600 mm. would set you alongside the big guns.
Things You Can Do At Home
Start stalking your prey now. With the help of that new telephoto lens, you can even do it from the comfort of your breakfast nook.
# Get in the habit of looking for photography opportunities everywhere. Shoot from the car, your kitchen window, your office " anywhere a pigeon perches or a seagull swoops. You'll be surprised at how quickly you notice shots you wouldn't have seen before.
* Practice so much that you could find your controls in the dark. It would be heartbreaking to miss a once-in-a-lifetime shot, all because you cant find your power button.
* Listen to the sounds your camera makes. Its astonishing how loudly a zoom lens can whir. If that doesn't convince you to buy a telephoto lens, nothing will. Be aware of what may startle wildlife and correct it before your trip.
* Visit your local zoo or game park to observe your desired subjects beforehand, if possible. Read about them. Practice photographing them in a controlled setting.
The Big Day: Tricks Of The Trade
# Buy a bean bag. They do a wonderful job of cushioning your camera when you're trying to shoot from a bouncing jeep.
# Include panoramic long shots with landmarks and scenery, as well as zooming in for those spectacular close-ups. A single twisted tree or the sweeping plain dwarfing a herd will create atmosphere. This is what will distinguish your photographs with the unmistakable hallmark of wildlife Africa.
* Whats the one animal you want to avoid? You guessed it " the malaria-carrying mosquito. Be sure to wear protective clothing and wield that bug spray. At the very least, don't let a bite from the pesky critters wreck your shot.
You may feel silly chasing squirrels through your local park, but persevere. The results of a little foresight and practice and the application of a few simple tricks and techniques will make sure your camera captures your wildlife Africa dream, as well as your subjects.
And remember to pack that camera! - 16955
There's no alternative but long-distance shots " but don't even think of using your zoom. Its mostly likely not nearly powerful enough. However, if you really want to get that extra-special close-up, there is a solution " a telephoto lens. 300 mm. is the place to start: 600 mm. would set you alongside the big guns.
Things You Can Do At Home
Start stalking your prey now. With the help of that new telephoto lens, you can even do it from the comfort of your breakfast nook.
# Get in the habit of looking for photography opportunities everywhere. Shoot from the car, your kitchen window, your office " anywhere a pigeon perches or a seagull swoops. You'll be surprised at how quickly you notice shots you wouldn't have seen before.
* Practice so much that you could find your controls in the dark. It would be heartbreaking to miss a once-in-a-lifetime shot, all because you cant find your power button.
* Listen to the sounds your camera makes. Its astonishing how loudly a zoom lens can whir. If that doesn't convince you to buy a telephoto lens, nothing will. Be aware of what may startle wildlife and correct it before your trip.
* Visit your local zoo or game park to observe your desired subjects beforehand, if possible. Read about them. Practice photographing them in a controlled setting.
The Big Day: Tricks Of The Trade
# Buy a bean bag. They do a wonderful job of cushioning your camera when you're trying to shoot from a bouncing jeep.
# Include panoramic long shots with landmarks and scenery, as well as zooming in for those spectacular close-ups. A single twisted tree or the sweeping plain dwarfing a herd will create atmosphere. This is what will distinguish your photographs with the unmistakable hallmark of wildlife Africa.
* Whats the one animal you want to avoid? You guessed it " the malaria-carrying mosquito. Be sure to wear protective clothing and wield that bug spray. At the very least, don't let a bite from the pesky critters wreck your shot.
You may feel silly chasing squirrels through your local park, but persevere. The results of a little foresight and practice and the application of a few simple tricks and techniques will make sure your camera captures your wildlife Africa dream, as well as your subjects.
And remember to pack that camera! - 16955
About the Author:
For a smooth enjoyable wildlife Africa safari and how to take wonderful wildlife pictures visit http://www.travelkenya.org/.
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