Tanzania, Safari, Planning
Preparing Your Equipment: What to Bring and Why
Camera Bodies: Your Foundation
The right camera body forms the foundation of your safari photography kit. While smartphone cameras have improved dramatically, a dedicated camera system offers the versatility and image quality needed for truly exceptional wildlife photography.
DSLR vs. Mirrorless: Both Have Merits
Both DSLR and mirrorless cameras can produce outstanding safari photographs. Your choice should depend on your familiarity, budget, and specific needs:
DSLRs offer excellent battery life (crucial when charging opportunities are limited), robust build quality, and an optical viewfinder that works without battery power. Canon and Nikon DSLRs remain popular choices with extensive lens selections.
Mirrorless cameras are typically lighter, offer silent shooting (less disruptive to wildlife), and provide electronic viewfinders that show exposure in real-time. Sony, Canon, and Nikon mirrorless systems have matured significantly with excellent autofocus capabilities.
Key Features to Prioritize:
Weather sealing - Protection against dust is essential in Tanzania's dry environments
Fast and accurate autofocus - Wildlife rarely poses patiently
Good high-ISO performance - Early morning and evening game drives often require higher sensitivity
Decent burst rate - 5-10 frames per second helps capture fleeting moments
Battery life - Bring multiple batteries as charging may be inconsistent
Consider a Backup Body
If your budget allows, bringing a second camera body serves two crucial purposes:
Provides redundancy if your primary camera fails far from repair facilities
Allows you to keep different lenses mounted, eliminating the need to change lenses in dusty conditions
Lenses: The Heart of Your Kit
Your lens selection will have the greatest impact on your safari photography. Tanzania's diverse environments and wildlife require different focal lengths for different situations.
Essential: Telephoto Zoom (70-200mm or 100-400mm)
A telephoto zoom in the 70-400mm range is the workhorse of safari photography. This focal length range allows you to:
Capture frame-filling portraits of animals at moderate distances
Adjust composition quickly as animals move
Maintain a respectful distance from wildlife
For crop-sensor cameras, these lenses provide even greater effective reach (a 400mm lens on an APS-C camera offers roughly 600mm equivalent field of view).
Weight consideration: These lenses typically weigh between 3-4 pounds (1.4-1.8 kg). The Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II weighs 3.5 pounds (1.6 kg), while the Nikon 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR weighs 3.5 pounds (1.6 kg).
Highly Recommended: Super-Telephoto (400mm+)
While heavy and expensive, longer focal lengths of 400mm or greater provide:
Frame-filling images of distant subjects
Ability to isolate animals in dense environments
Greater standoff distance for shy species
Consider renting if purchasing is prohibitive. Many photographers find a 150-600mm zoom lens offers an excellent balance of reach and portability.
Weight consideration: Super-telephoto lenses are significantly heavier. The Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Contemporary weighs about 4.3 pounds (1.95 kg), while prime super-telephotos like the 500mm f/4 can weigh 7-8 pounds (3.2-3.6 kg).
Complementary: Wide-Angle (16-35mm)
Tanzania isn't just about wildlife close-ups. A wide-angle lens allows you to:
Capture sweeping landscapes of the Serengeti plains
Show animals in their environment
Photograph starry skies over your camp
Document your safari experience beyond wildlife
Weight consideration: Wide-angle zooms typically weigh 1.5-2 pounds (0.7-0.9 kg).
Versatile Addition: Standard Zoom (24-70mm)
A standard zoom bridges the gap between wide-angle and telephoto, perfect for:
Environmental portraits of wildlife
Scenes around camp and lodges
Cultural photography in local villages (with permission)
Unexpected close encounters with wildlife
Weight consideration: Standard zoom lenses typically weigh 1.5-2 pounds (0.7-0.9 kg).
The Weight Consideration
Remember that weight adds up quickly. Consider:
How much you're willing to carry during long game drives
Airline baggage restrictions for safari flights (typically 15-20kg/33-44lbs total)
Your physical comfort when shooting for extended periods
Typical DSLR setup weights:
Camera body: 1.5-2 pounds (0.7-0.9 kg)
70-200mm lens: 3 pounds (1.4 kg)
24-70mm lens: 2 pounds (0.9 kg)
16-35mm lens: 1.5 pounds (0.7 kg)
Accessories (batteries, cards, etc.): 1 pound (0.45 kg)
Total: 9-10 pounds (4.1-4.5 kg) of equipment
Essential Accessories
Memory Cards: Bring More Than You Think You'll Need
Pack multiple high-capacity cards (64GB or larger)
Choose cards with fast write speeds (UHS-II or better) for burst shooting
Keep cards in a waterproof case
Develop a system for managing full vs. empty cards
Batteries and Charging Solutions
Bring at least 3-4 camera batteries per body
Consider a vehicle charger or power bank for emergency charging
Pack all necessary charging cables and adapters
Check if your accommodations have 24-hour electricity (many don't)
Support Systems
Bean bags are ideal for stabilizing cameras on vehicle windows or roof hatches
Monopods offer a good balance of stability and portability
Tripods are useful around camp but often impractical during game drives
Clamps can attach to vehicle structures for added stability
Protection for Your Gear
Dust-resistant camera bag with rain cover
Silica gel packets to combat humidity
Lens cleaning kit (microfiber cloths, blower, cleaning solution)
Rain covers for unexpected showers
Plastic bags for emergency weather protection
Filters Worth Packing
Polarizing filter - Reduces glare and enhances colors, especially useful for water scenes and skies
UV filter - Primarily for lens protection
Variable ND filter - For creative long exposures of landscapes or water
Mastering Camera Settings for Wildlife
Exposure Modes: Finding the Right Balance
Shutter Priority: Your Go-To Mode
For most wildlife photography in Tanzania, Shutter Priority (Tv or S) mode is ideal because:
It lets you control motion blur while the camera handles aperture
You can quickly adjust for different animal behaviors
It simplifies shooting in changing light conditions
Recommended Shutter Speeds:
Stationary animals: 1/250 to 1/500 second
Walking animals: 1/500 to 1/1000 second
Running animals: 1/1000 to 1/2000 second
Birds in flight: 1/2000 second or faster
Aperture Priority: For Controlled Depth of Field
Aperture Priority (Av or A) works well when:
Shooting landscapes where depth of field is critical
Creating portraits with pleasing background blur
Light levels are consistent
Manual Mode: For Challenging Situations
Consider Manual mode when:
Shooting silhouettes against sunrise/sunset
Light conditions are tricky (like spotlit animals at night)
Creating panoramas that require consistent exposure
Focus Settings for Sharp Wildlife Images
Autofocus Area Modes
Single-point AF - For precise focus on an animal's eye
Dynamic/Zone AF - For moving subjects within a specific area
Tracking AF - For actively moving wildlife
Focus Modes
Single-servo (AF-S/One-Shot) - For stationary subjects
Continuous-servo (AF-C/AI Servo) - Essential for moving wildlife
Back-button focusing - Separates focus from shutter release for greater control
The Golden Rule: Focus on the Eyes
No matter what settings you use, prioritize sharp focus on the animal's eyes. A wildlife photograph with sharp eyes creates an immediate connection with viewers, even if other parts of the image are slightly soft.
Exposure Compensation and Metering
Understanding Metering Challenges
Tanzania's high contrast environments can confuse your camera's meter:
Dark animals against bright skies
Backlit subjects at sunrise/sunset
Spotlit animals against dark backgrounds
Metering Modes to Consider:
Evaluative/Matrix - Good general-purpose setting
Center-weighted - Useful when your subject fills the center of the frame
Spot metering - For precise exposure of a specific area
Using Exposure Compensation Effectively
Learn to quickly adjust exposure compensation:
+1 to +2 stops for dark subjects against bright backgrounds
-1 to -2 stops for light subjects against dark backgrounds
+1 to +1.5 stops for backlit subjects
ISO Strategy for Changing Light
Base ISO (100-200) - Use whenever possible for maximum image quality
Moderate ISO (400-1600) - For early morning and late afternoon
High ISO (3200+) - For dawn/dusk and shaded areas
Auto ISO with Minimum Shutter Speed
Many photographers find success with:
Setting a minimum shutter speed appropriate for your subject
Setting maximum ISO based on your camera's capabilities
Letting the camera balance these parameters automatically
Field Techniques for Exceptional Safari Photography
Working with Your Safari Vehicle
Vehicle Positioning is Critical
Communicate with your guide about:
Optimal positioning relative to the sun and subject
Maintaining appropriate distance from wildlife
Stabilizing the vehicle when possible
Making the Most of Limited Mobility
In Tanzania, you'll typically remain in your vehicle except in designated areas. Maximize your options by:
Choosing the best seat for photography (usually front or back)
Using bean bags on different window heights
Shooting from the roof hatch when permitted
Removing lens hoods when shooting through windows
Stabilization Techniques
Brace yourself against the vehicle structure
Use the vehicle roof or window frame as support
Control your breathing when shooting
Maintain a stable but relaxed posture
Read more about safari vehicles in Tanzania.
Composition Strategies for Impact
The Rule of Thirds and Beyond
Place key elements at intersection points of an imagined 3×3 grid
Position eyes along the top third line for portraits
Leave space in the direction an animal is facing or moving
Environmental Context
Tanzania offers spectacular settings for wildlife. Consider:
Including habitat elements that tell a story
Showing interaction between animals and environment
Using distinctive landscapes as framing devices
Perspective Matters
Shoot at eye level with your subject when possible
Try unusual angles for fresh perspectives
Consider how foreground and background elements relate
Patience and Observation
Wait for meaningful moments and behaviors
Observe patterns before shooting extensively
Anticipate action based on animal body language
Understanding and Working with Light
Golden Hour Magic
The first and last hours of daylight offer:
Warm, directional light that adds dimension
Softer shadows and reduced contrast
Enhanced colors and mood
Midday Challenges and Solutions
When harsh midday light is unavoidable:
Focus on subjects in shade
Shoot near water bodies where light is diffused
Consider black and white conversion for high-contrast scenes
Use fill flash (if animals aren't disturbed) to reduce harsh shadows
Creative Use of Backlighting
Silhouettes against sunrise/sunset
Rim lighting that highlights animal contours
Atmospheric effects like dust illuminated by low sun
Anticipating and Capturing Behavior
Research Before Your Trip
Understanding Tanzania's wildlife behavior patterns helps you anticipate photographic opportunities:
Mating seasons and behaviors
Hunting techniques of predators
Herd movements and social interactions
Territorial displays
Reading Animal Body Language
Learn to recognize signs that precede interesting behavior:
Alert postures before movement
Subtle communication between animals
Feeding patterns and preferences
Burst Mode for Action Sequences
Use burst shooting for fast action
Start shooting slightly before anticipated peak action
Continue until the sequence completes
Tanzania-Specific Photography Opportunities
Iconic Locations and Their Photographic Potential
The Great Migration river crossings (typically July-October)
Predator-prey interactions on the open plains
Kopjes (rock formations) as natural frames for wildlife
Endless plains landscapes, especially at sunrise/sunset
Park hours: Open 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
Game drives: Typically 3-4 hours in morning (6:00-10:00 AM) and afternoon (3:00-6:00 PM)
Contained ecosystem with reliable wildlife sightings
Dramatic crater rim as background element
Misty mornings with atmospheric light
High density of predators in relatively small area
Park hours: Open 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
Game drives: Limited to 6 hours per permit
Elephants among ancient baobab trees
Dry season concentrations of wildlife along the river
Distinctive termite mounds as compositional elements
Excellent bird photography opportunities
Park hours: Open 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
Game drives: Typically 2-3 hours in morning and afternoon
Tree-climbing lions (when you're lucky)
Flamingos and water birds along the lake edge
Forest environments with different light characteristics
Dramatic escarpment backdrops
Park hours: Open 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
Game drives: Typically 2-3 hours in morning and afternoon
Seasonal Considerations for Photography
Dry Season (June-October)
Photographic advantages:
Concentrated wildlife around water sources
Better visibility with less vegetation
More predictable animal movements
Dramatic dust and light interactions
Challenges:
Harsh light and contrast
Dust protection for equipment
Crowded sightings at popular locations
Green Season (November-May)
Photographic advantages:
Lush, vibrant landscapes
Dramatic storm clouds and light
Newborn animals and breeding behaviors
Fewer tourists and vehicles
Challenges:
Dispersed wildlife
Difficult road conditions
Rain protection for equipment
Limited visibility in tall grass
Special Subjects and Techniques
The Great Migration
Position for river crossings well in advance
Capture both wide contextual shots and tight action
Look for emotional moments and interactions
Consider time-lapse or video for dynamic movement
Predator-Prey Interactions
Maintain respectful distance during hunts
Capture the anticipation and tension before action
Document the full sequence from stalking to outcome
Be prepared for fast and unpredictable movements
Birds in Flight
Use faster shutter speeds (1/2000s minimum)
Continuous autofocus with tracking
Practice panning techniques
Learn behavioral cues that precede takeoff
Night Sky Photography
Tanzania's dark skies offer spectacular astrophotography opportunities:
Milky Way over acacia trees
Star trails above distinctive landscapes
Camp scenes under starlight
Light painting with minimal artificial light
Practical Considerations for Tanzania Safari Photography
Baggage Allowances for Small Aircraft
If your safari includes flights on small aircraft between parks (common for fly-in safaris ), be aware of strict baggage limitations:
Weight limit: Typically 15kg (33lbs) per person including all camera equipment and hand luggage
Bag type: Soft-sided duffel bags only (no hard suitcases)
Size restrictions: Maximum dimensions approximately 25cm (10 inches) wide by 30cm (12 inches) high
Excess weight: May require purchasing an additional seat
Photography equipment strategy:
Prioritize essential gear (one body, 1-2 key lenses)
Wear your heaviest items (camera around neck, lenses in vest pockets)
Consider renting equipment in Tanzania for longer trips
Pack minimal clothing to maximize equipment allowance
Game Drive Timing and Duration
Understanding park hours and typical game drive schedules helps maximize photography opportunities:
Park hours: Most Tanzania national parks operate from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Morning drives: Typically start at 6:00 AM and last 3-4 hours
Afternoon drives: Usually begin around 3:00 PM and continue until park closing
Full-day drives: Available in some parks with packed lunch
Night drives: Limited availability in certain private concessions
Photography timing strategy:
Prioritize early morning and late afternoon for best light
Use midday for rest or photographing in shaded areas
Plan longer drives during migration or for specific sightings
Discuss photography priorities with your guide before each drive
Protecting Your Gear in Challenging Conditions
Dust Management
Change lenses infrequently and in protected environments
Use a rocket blower to remove dust before using cloths
Consider a second camera body to avoid lens changes
Keep equipment in sealed bags when not in use
Heat Protection
Store equipment out of direct sunlight
Allow gear to acclimate to temperature changes
Use camera covers or towels to shield from extreme heat
Never leave equipment in closed vehicles
Moisture Concerns
Protect against sudden rain showers
Be cautious about condensation when moving between temperature extremes
Use silica gel packets in your camera bag
Allow wet equipment to dry thoroughly before storage
Managing Data in the Field
Develop a system for backing up images
Consider a portable hard drive or laptop
Keep memory cards in waterproof cases
Label cards and batteries for easy identification
Packing and Travel Considerations
Carry essential equipment in your hand luggage
Research airline restrictions for safari flights
Consider insurance for expensive equipment
Pack critical items redundantly across bags
Post-Processing Your Safari Images
Essential Adjustments for Wildlife Photography
Basic Workflow
Culling - Be ruthless in selecting your best images
RAW processing - Adjust exposure, contrast, white balance
Selective adjustments - Dodge and burn to direct attention
Sharpening - Focus on eyes and key features
Noise reduction - Especially for high-ISO images
Wildlife-Specific Considerations
Maintain natural colors and avoid oversaturation
Ensure eyes are properly exposed and sharp
Use selective clarity to enhance texture in fur and feathers
Consider subtle vignetting to direct attention to your subject
Ethical Considerations in Editing
Represent wildlife and environments truthfully
Disclose significant manipulations
Avoid compositing elements that misrepresent natural behavior
Consider the story your images tell about conservation
Ethical Safari Photography Practices
Respecting Wildlife and Habitats
Maintain appropriate distance from animals
Never pressure guides to get closer than is safe or ethical
Avoid disturbing natural behaviors for a photograph
Follow park rules and regulations without exception
Supporting Conservation Through Photography
Share images that promote conservation awareness
Consider donating images to conservation organizations
Educate viewers about conservation challenges
Support local conservation initiatives
Cultural Sensitivity
Always ask permission before photographing local people
Learn about and respect cultural norms
Consider compensating people for modeling
Share images with communities when possible
Conclusion: Beyond the Photographs
The best safari photographs tell stories, evoke emotions, and inspire conservation. By mastering the technical aspects of wildlife photography while maintaining an ethical approach and open heart, you'll return with images that truly capture the magic of Tanzania's wild places.
For more information about planning your perfect Tanzania safari, explore our guides on Group vs. Private Safaris , Safari Cost Breakdown , and Types of Safari Accommodation .
Remember that wildlife photography requires patience, respect, and sometimes luck. Even professional photographers don't get the perfect shot every time. Enjoy the process, be present in the moment, and the photographs will follow.
