A good photograph is the product of many things. Light, background, and our choices about it. One subject or many. Our selection of optics, perspective, motion, and use of space. How we use them leaves an impression and an emotional response.
Rather than words, the photographs below show a more powerful story of a simple animal that most don’t find exotic. The choices made by a photographer, including location and timing, evoke an exciting image.
“It’s not what you look at that matters; it’s what you see.” Henry David Thoreau
Out in the wild, you have little control over most – light-background- positioning- animal behavior -you have seconds to react and click. Many photographers may only go to a location once, which adds another challenging element. They are so excited by what they see that they panic and start firing away at what is in front of them, fearing they will miss the “Shot.” Except by doing this and not using skills to think through the creative process, you probably already missed the shot.
Over a decade back, I created a series of workshops on a ranch in the US to help photographers develop creative solid photographic skills. It was so successful that many clients repeated the workshop many times. However, I can set up shots at the ranch to teach the techniques, but out in the “real world,” applying these creative skills face real challenges.
This is why I am so excited to offer the Maasai Mara Extreme Safari in March 2024! Known as the wildlife mecca of the world and immortalized by countless wildlife films, I can’t think of a better place to put your creative skills to the challenge. It is time to get out of your safe zone, push the boundaries, and play with light, motion, perspective, and the gear you invested in. We will focus on creative techniques that elevate your vision and photography!
Since I am not a photographer and my only equipment would be my cell phone, would this trip be open to me? Thanks.
My trips are open to anyone and many are good for iPhone photographers and non-photographers, BUT sorry is not one of them.
Another great article. It is true what you said about first timers like me visiting Kenya. I was so excited, and I shot whatever I could. If I ever get back, I will slow down my shooting, and hopefully, get even better shots. Thank you for this.