African Photographic Safaris……

I have traveled extensively throughout Africa for the past 20 years, a continent that I fell in love with the moment my feet hit its rich red soil.  It has been such an incredible journey that my passion is now to share the magic of this amazing place with as many people as possible.  I put hours of logistical research into each itinerary to ensure the best possible safari and photographic opportunities based on my years of experience. The best part about leading photographic safaris is when I  hear a client say, “This is the best thing that I have ever experienced”.

In their own words, here are some of the experiences of recent guests who joined us on a safari, tour, or workshop….Guest Testimonial

Maasai Mara workshop 2024 -lead by Piper Mackay and Vicki Santello

I am back here in Pennsylvania, wondering if I will ever be able to do another photography workshop that can top your Maasai Mara Safari workshop.  Thank you for introducing me to this unforgettable sliver of our world.  I thoroughly enjoyed the diverse group of attendees, the knowledgeable, friendly guides, the incredible attention to detail that went into the planning of the trip, and most importantly, the incredible photography experience.  Thank you and Vicki for operating an unforgettable workshop that focused on learning as much as it did photography.  Jennifer Mathes

Maasai Mara workshop 2024 -lead by Piper Mackay and Vicki Santello

Exotic Kenya 2022 -lead by Ben McRae

First and foremost, I have a wonderful and newly founded impression of who you are and what you do.  Now, that’s a statement!  Without meeting you, like several of our Safari members have, I based my impression on your website and our brief phone conversation.  Having experienced your designed Safari with all the elements that compose this incredible journey, I have nothing but deep admiration for you and what you’ve created. The Safari you created was magical.  Thank you for your passion, heart, and courage in visiting and relating to these beautiful souls, animals, and country. –  Liz

Exotic Kenya 2022 -lead by Ben McRae

My trip to Africa via the Piper MacKay Photography Safari was a  joyous , magical experience which exceeded anything I could have imagined. The Kenyan people  (hotel staff, safari jeep driver, a safari guide) were welcoming, kind, funny, lighthearted, happy, knowledgeable and helpful. It was lovely and I felt well cared for. Each day was an amazing adventure of wildlife viewing/photographing . It was a great privilege to  photograph, interact and learn about various tribes Piper establish relationships with throughout Kenya. My trip was magnificently exceptional! – Deb M

Exotic Kenya 2022 -lead by Ben McRae

I  wanted to compliment and thank both of you for a great 2022 experience in Kenya!

The schedule and balance of the tribal visits and the park visits was excellent.  The experience set up with the tribes was excellent.  It was a nice balance as well as with village visits and opportunities to do “model” work.   I also really enjoyed the pre- and post-experiences.  Abigael, thank you for setting those up.  All the guides were great on the trip, but I especially enjoyed the full week with Arnold Olenturuja.  He’s a great guide, excellent spotter and especially knows the Masai Mara right down to the various cat territories, even the back story on some of the prides or lions and a group of cheetahs.  He had a great eye for where to position the jeep for optimal photography and light.  There were a few times I’d suggest a place and he’d both tell me why it won’t work and then suggest other positions we might move to. –  Mark T. – USA

Spirit-N-Light it up 2022

Piper’s workshops are a model of effectiveness. During the instruction sessions you will be presented a topic in detail. Next, you will go in the field (indoors or outdoors) and put what you just learned to use. Next and equally important, you will receive a constructive critique of your results with suggestions as to what you can do differently to improve the end result.
All of us go to a workshop to improve our photography and Piper’s approach will give you every opportunity to do so. The workshop cost is money well spent. – Richard

Spirit-N-Light it up 2022

The Spirit N Light workshop was amazing and I would recommend anyone who is interested in taking good photos here in the US or abroad sign up. There was a wide variety of topics clearly covered throughout each day starting early in the morning. We had the ability to ask questions, practice new skills, and review in a group setting each day. Having two instructors made it even more dynamic as students were given exceptional access to both throughout the day and after dinner if needed.

Thank you for a wonderful experience! – Roxanne

Angola Tribal Expedition 2021
Just returned from Piper’s extraordinary Angola tribal expedition. I would say this is one of my best experiences in my 30+ years travel history. We met 5 unique tribes in the remote areas in the southwest of Angola, learned their cultures and lifestyles, and enjoyed the parties with them. 

Thanks to Piper who made it happen since the first time I talked to her about my interests of visiting Angolan tribes and I can’t imagine how hard she worked on it for years; Thanks to the support team that assembled / dissembled the tents, cooked the delicious foods, and managed all logistics from one campsite to another; Thanks to all group members that we traveled together like a family.

Travel to Africa opens my eyes and makes me a better person. I am so grateful from the bottom of my heart. – Rosalie

Great Migration Safari 2021
This was an outstanding trip. Great leader, outstanding guides/drivers who got us in position for taking great photos, absolutely first class accommodations,  wonderful food, etc.  What’s not to like?  And oh, the animals, the migration season in the Mara is an absolute can’t miss.  This is the definition of a trip of a lifetime. – Les

Zimbabwe, walk in the wild  2021
Yet another fabulous trip with Piper. All the details from our first night in Harare to the transfers to our other camps was spot on! The camps were awesome and it was such a pleasure to be around everyone. Our small group was perfect and I enjoyed meeting new people. The first night hearing the lion roar from 20 feet away and then again off and on all night is something I will remember for ever! It is just perfect experiencing Africa with people who truly love the land. I can’t wait to go back! – Beth 

Signature Safari Africa 2019

The Signature African Safari was my first wildlife photo tour. Piper did not disappoint. As the tour proceeded, she kept exceeding my expectations. Her drivers are excellent. Most importantly, they are also accomplished photographers and they know where to position the vehicles for the best light and the best photographs. Also, early in the tour, I requested a review of my images with Piper and she happily obliged. Her inputs were very helpful and my photos showed a marked improvement as the tour progressed. – George 

Gerewol Festival 2019

If you travel with Piper on one of her photo tours, there will never be a dull moment.  Piper is truly passionate about Africa, about her work, and about ensuring that her clients have a memorable experience.  I am not long back from a trip with Piper to the spectacular Gerewol festival in Chad. As always, Piper had arranged a truly unforgettable trip.  From witnessing the arrival of the nomadic Wodaabe tribe members, to watching the men dance and listening to their hypnotic chant, I will treasure my photographic memories for many years to come – CW

Gerewol Festival 2019

Travel to the Gerewold festival in Chad is an exceptional experience. Piper shared her passion for Africa and its tribal culture that is evidenced by her beautiful images. With Piper’s patience and guidance, I was also able to capture some of these same unique images.  Piper’s 2019 trip provided a comfortable haven for our group to appreciate and engage with the Wodaabe culture.  (Yes, it was hot and dusty, rainy and muddy … who cares – it is AFRICA!!!).  

It was a rare photographic opportunity and I had a phenomenal time.  I am excited that I have additional trips scheduled with Piper next year!!!  Thank you!! – L Beyeler

Gerewol Festival 2019

I have been to many remote tribal areas with Piper. The trip to Gerewol Festival in Chad was spectacular. The festival had not had many photographer groups and the Wodaabe and Fulani people do not get used to the big cameras yet. In addition, compare to the other tourist group, we had luxury camping site with a great team of the chef, drivers, and the guide. It is an unforgettable adventure. – Rosalie

Great Migration Safari 2019

Piper Mackay truly deserves recognition as an outstanding photo safari leader. She is dedicated to doing an outstanding job and I have never seen anyone work as hard as she does to ensure you have a memorable photo safari experience. Would I travel with her again? Absolutely. Would I recommend you go on one of her trips. Yes – without reservation. It is quite obvious she loves what she does and she cares very deeply that you have a memorable experience on her trips. – Sherry Schmidt

Tribes of the Omo 2019 – with Ben McRae

I would like to thank you and your excellent team for a wonderful and exhilarating visit to the Omo Valley.

I arrived back in the U.K. yesterday and am currently suffering from sensory overload!  What started as a photographic experience soon developed into a cultural and social one too!  I have learned so much about the people and challenges of Ethiopia and my photography has taken a completely new direction.

The team were first class from the most junior to the most senior, knowledgeable and friendly and always putting our comfort and safety first.

Ben is one of the best. His enthusiasm and passion are unrelenting and infectious. His patience is infinite!  I am sure we exhausted him, but somehow he remained able to guide and teach us from dawn to dusk!

Danny’s knowledge of the country was frankly encyclopaedic!  There seemed nothing he did not know and often I felt we were on a field trip as much as a photographic one!

The drivers consistently impressed with their skill levels over difficult terrain and their stamina over the long drives was immense!  I wondered often how they managed to find their way through with no maps or sat nav!

Finally, a word about Addis, our chef at the camp. How he managed to produce the exquisite food that he did was beyond belief!  What a delightful and humble man.

So thank you, for a wonderful experience. I look forward to to future trips and perhaps we shall meet in person one day.  – Richard L

Tribes of the Omo 2019 – with Ben McRae

I am still wading through the thousands of pictures from the tribes of the Omo. Each photograph on my computer brings back an amazing memory of my 11 day adventure. My fabulous experience was due to Piper’s attention to detail. There is not one stone left unturned in her commitment to a smooth running trip. From the choice of guides and drivers, to the charm of the translators we were paired with -there was at no time a feeling of lack of knowledge or safety in the area.

Ben was a wonderful photographer to have with us. He always was available in the field and at the ready to get the good lighting, best angle, and he was determined that we were going home with exquisite photos. He has a portrait style of photographing- I am a more candid type but I learned a few new pointers to put into my bucket to get a great shot. He talked a lot about the lighting and shadows and it began to fall into place for me. I hope the new tips will become second nature.I hope to go back and I recommend this travel group highly.  – Margie Greenberg

 Dust-N-Light 2019

Having attended other workshops I can say that the structure of this workshop where you are shown a particular technique and then go out in the field to practice it is invaluable. It is further enhanced by reminders and prompts when in the field. Last, the post session critiques are excellent for discussing issues that need improvement and for further reinforcing techniques. All in all, it is time and money very well spent – Richard S.

Dust-N-Light 2019

I had prior experience and instruction in photographing landscapes, and wanted to build skills for capturing wildlife and portraits. Piper’s instruction in these areas is invaluable, and she bends over backwards to help each attendee advance to their next level. I now have the knowledge, skills and confidence for my upcoming African safari.  Piper’s relationships with the ranch help create an extraordinary experience with the animals, wranglers and activities. Her personalized service is exceptional!  If you are going on one of her custom trips, her workshops are a MUST! – Deb H

India Wildlife and Tiger Safari 2019

Piper and Shivang put a lot of thought and planning into this safari, choosing the right parks, schedule, lodges and coordination to make it an incredible adventure.  Theirattention to detail is unbelievable and the trip went very smoothly being the first time running it.  An example is the all day passes at Bandhavgarh, this was the best choice for these limited opportunities.  What a magnificent park, I could have spent more time there. – Bob Schlatter

India Wildlife and Tiger Safari 2019

If you are looking for adventure coupled with great images, please consider Piper Mackay. You will love the experience and  will come home with treasured photos and cherish memories. – Robert Rock

India Wildlife and Tiger Safari 2019

I have traveled many times with Piper and have always enjoyed a great experience filled with unique photo opportunities – VH

Spirit-N-Light it up 2019

I obtained numerous skills at the Spirit N Light Workshop that will remain with me as I continue my photographic endeavors. First, I will forever hear Piper whispering in my ear, “What’s your background, what’s the light?” I also learned a few tricks to help motivate me when I am not feeling inspired with the subject – position/angles, exposure, panning and more. I absolutely loved my time at the ranch, including the food, ranchers, horses, scenery and more. Every effort was made to help the photographers learn, get terrific shots and feel comfortable with the experience. I only wish I could have spent even more time learning. Piper’s enthusiasm is contagious and her dedication to her craft obvious. We are kindred spirits in that I, like her, thrilled to the absolute adrenalin rush of shooting on an authentic working ranch. I can’t wait to process my images! – Phyllis Webster

Incredible India and Kumbha Mela 2019

I just returned home from my second adventure with Piper. After my amazing trip to Africa several years ago, I knew that I wanted to partake in another Piper MacKay experience. My dream was to travel to India and I was delighted when I realized that Piper had expanded her destinations to include India.
Once again, I had the experience of a lifetime. Our time at the Kumla Meba was fascinating as we witnessed the variety of pilgrims who descended upon the Ganges River to bath in the holy water.
We meet local people in the villages as we visited huts and homes and learned about the Indian cultural
Piper devoted enormous energy and work as she creates an incredibly unique experience that only she can arrange. One incredible experience followed another and once again, I was thrilled about my participation in the trip of a lifetime – Nancy Turret

Tribes of the Omo 2018 – lead by Ben McRae

I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed visiting the Omo Valley with Ben McRae through Piper MacKay Photo Safaris.  The trip was well constructed and organized, offering exposure to a wide range of tribes and photographic options.  Ben and the other trip organizers helped keep the group moving through a variety of photographic options, as circumstances allowed.  This trip offered everything from cattle jumping ceremony, to a goat drive to a cattle bleeding ceremony.  Ben was exceptionally hands on helping the photographers as much as they wanted, but also offered some challenges to break individuals out of routines, look at other photographic options and the opportunity to do speedlight work with various tribes as models. –  Mark Teitelbaun

Signature Safari Africa 2018 – Uganda Extension

This was an incredible adventure in Kenya, I could not have asked for anything better.  Piper’s planning, schedule and attention to detail were spot on.

Uganda should be a standard extension to the Signature Safari.  The chimpanzee trekking was fantastic, this was the highlight of the extension. – Robert Schlatter

Tribes of the Omo 2018 – lead by Ben McRae

‘I have just returned from a Piper Mackay Photography tour – ’Tribes of the Omo’.  The itinerary allowed us to visit some of the exotic tribes throughout the Omo Valley.  What an experience.  Being able to have a glimpse into, and be able to photograph, their largely unchanged way of life and seeing them in their exotic native dress was such a privilege.  Ben McRae, our tour leader, was nothing short of amazing.  He was such an easy going, informative guy who was incredibly generous with his photographic knowledge and advice.  I not only saw so much, but also learnt so much!  Our Ethiopian guide Danny was also one in a million – his knowledge on all things Ethiopian was astounding and his sense of humour made for some great laughs along the way.  Ben and Danny worked tirelessly to make the trip great fun as well as an amazing photographic and cultural experience.’  – Mardi, Australia

Tribes of the Omo 2018 – lead by Ben McRae

After having just completed my first trip sponsored by Piper MacKay, I am reflecting on just what occurred in that short amount of time. It is very hard to put in words the experience of this trip. First off, kudos to Piper for creating this environment with the Tribes of the OMO Valley, secondly, the tour company that she has joined with are exceptional and will go out of their way to assist and help each guest in whatever way they can.I saw them work so hard to ensure all the guests were happy. Thirdly, there is Ben McRae, who is very much an accomplished photographer himself, with so much experience in Africa and so willing to share his knowledge, it is heart warming. Ben’s common question, “Are you winning”, can be heard over and over by him.He is an exceptional fellow, easy to get along with and he thinks on his feet very quickly.

All in all, I can’t say enough about this trip. If you even have any tiny thought, that this trip may be for you, jump on it NOW. This experience will be hard to duplicate and hopefully the future of western influence will not destroy the culture of these tribes. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and I couldn’t be happier that I had the foresight to sign up and go. – Janet Regan

Great Migration Safari 2018

Having just returned from my third trip with Piper MacKay I can say that she is an exceptional, passionate and unparalleled tour leader. We are up and out before the sun comes up chasing animals for the best photo ops and light. We stay close to where the tribes are so that we can easily get to their villages. She has a great rapport with the tribal leaders which translates to great photo opportunities for her clients. She puts you in the right place at the right time. Her drivers, accommodations, and overall trip planning are excellent. I can recommend her very highly – Nancy Ney

Dust-N-Light  2018

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Dust N Light workshop to anyone who has a passion and commitment to raise their level of photography.  Piper works with you on a one to one basis and constantly challenges you to get better.  This workshop isn’t for the faint of heart or for the non-committed.  If you don’t want to grow or be challenged then find some friends who think every image you produce is great and spend years toiling in futility.  BUT, if you are one who thirsts for greatness and growth, then you should sign up for any workshop Piper Mackay offers.  The return on your investment will be immediate and substantial as far as you creativity and results are concerned.- Wayne Hoover

Dust-N-Light  2018

Dust-n-Light is the workshop that every aspiring wildlife, cultural or street photographer should attend before going out in the field. First, Piper shares her simple, effective mantra “what is my background, what is my light”, with participants, and then teaches them the skills that will help them create more dramatic and impactful images. Piper is a hands-on teacher, and her methods include working in the field and in the classroom. This was my second experience with Piper; after traveling to India with her, I knew I needed to work and practice with her again. There is a reason that most of her workshop and tour participants are repeat clients, and that is because of her passion—for photography, for sharing her skills with others, and for pushing her participants to the next level of photography. I have already signed up for my next two trips with Piper and cannot wait. – Katherine Bristor

Turkana Festival and Wildlife Safari 2018

Many photographic trips promise more than they can deliver, but there is no doubt that Piper’s trip did exactly “what it said on the tin” and then some!  Knowledgeable guides/drivers got us in to where the action was, and we were delighted with some of the best wildlife photography we have achieved to date. But what attracted me to this particular trip was the promise of getting to photograph tribes, and the tribal festival. For me this part of the trip excelled…we were welcomed into the tribes and were able to get beautiful portraits, and documentary images of tribes fishing, cooking, dancing and going about their daily lives. This was not simply a show put on for the tourists, but the real deal, with the members of tribes dressed as they normally do…it was very special experience. – Terry and Debbie Mendoza

Turkana Festival and Wildlife Safari 2018

This is my second trip with Piper—having enjoyed Ethiopia’s Lalibela at Xmas  & the Omo Valley a few years back.
In a nutshell——Piper does it right———with passion and enthusiasm! The Turkana Festival along with Samburu and Amboseli National Parks was a smartly balanced trip—mixing game drives, village visits and the colorful dancing of the Turkana Festival. Piper’s hands-on knowledge of Africa creates a unique, well paced and memorable itinerary. She knows animal behavior and thus has us in the right location for the best shots. Piper is trusted and respected by the local village leaders which provides her groups access easily. Her driver teams are dependable, knowledgable and very entertaining…………which makes for a great experience.
I recommend Piper Mackay 110%…………no questions asked. – David Wild

Spirit-N-Light  2018

Piper Mackay is one of the most passionate, generous photography instructors with whom I have worked. Staying at the beautiful V6-Ranch with warm, welcoming wranglers, beautiful horses, and scenery, she is able to craft a skills building workshop that is both impactful and fun. She inspired me to change the way I want to photograph in just a few short days. If you want to learn to “see” and create dramatic, breath-taking images, I’d encourage you to study with Piper. – Ivy Gorden

Spirit-N-Light  2018

Even though I’ve taken Piper’s workshops before, I am always impressed by how much I learn. This is my second trip to the ranch and the lighting and weather situations presented completely different challenges and Piper was able to successfully address them. My knowledge of lighting a scene has dramatically improved during these workshops. And there is no denying that the V6 ranch is a very special place to hone those skills. -Terry Granger

Spirit-N-Light  2018

This workshop exceeded my expectations. I learned new ways to look at light. I also learned how to do motion blurs. Piper is a great teacher and really cares that you improve your photography. The people at the V6 ranch were fantastic. I had a great time, met some fantastic people, and learned quite a bit in this short workshop. – Sherry Schmidt

Spirit-N-Light it up 2017

I have attended several of Pipers workshops, and I will be attending several more in the future! She has a way of teaching that truly inspires-She has really helped me move my photography to a new level. I enjoy every aspect of the workshop, from the early morning shoots, to the group image review, and the late night editing. This year Piper added the element of flash to her workshop by including Greg Thomason, who worked with us and explained how to use flash in many different circumstances. Most of us had never used flash before, and his way of teaching truly opened another door for me with my photography. The combination of Piper and Greg together made this workshop spectacular.- Missy Goldwyn

Spirit-N-Light it up 2017

The Spirit & Light It Up workshop experience is one that is driven out Piper’s relentless passion for helping photographers understand different types and uses of light and it will benefit photographers at any level because it will force you to view light in different ways and it will give you tools to leverage the light you have (or the light you don’t have) to create the image that can portray your message or experience to your audience; or the image that simply satisfies yourself. The added benefit of the workshop, which is filled with true hands-on practical application of the methods and principals learned, is that you will engage with models and subjects that will transform…right before your eyes and through the lens of your camera…into the authentic cowboys, cowgirls, working ranchers and passionate individuals that they are. This means you will leave the workshop, with new skills, a genuine experience and a greater sense of what your photography means to you and with the ability to better share the emotion of your image with others. Jeff Thompson, www.eyesonyousafaris.com

Spirit-N-Light it up 2017

I was fortunate to attend a Spirit N Light workshop for the third time. I knew that I was returning ‘home’ – to Piper and to the V6 ranch! It was great to go back and be able to photograph at the ranch, knowing my camera so much better and being able to practise techniques with the great opportunities set up by Piper. She knows light and moved us around on the fields so that we could capture so many moments that we didn’t even know were going to happen. Will I go back? Never say never – one of my all time favourite workshops!! – Laurie Thompson – Canada

Spirit-N-Light it up 2017

I thought the workshop did an outstanding job of demonstrating how light effects the image and then putting the lessons into practice.  Working with the flash in the field was very helpful. – Robert Schallater

Great Migration Safari 2017

“This was an amazing trip. The sights were terrific as were the guides, vehicles, sights and positioning for photos. All in all, an A+!” Alvin Rosenfeld

Great Migration Safari 2017

The Great Migration Safari in 2017 surpassed all my expectations!  Everyday was an incredible experience, with seeing so many different animals during the whole adventure!  The accommodations were great, the food was amazing, and the people were warm and friendly! – Mark Folstad, Canada

Dust-N-Light 2017

Piper MacKay teaches you  whole new level of using light and background to really improve your photography. Great!- Alvin Rosenfeld

Dust-N-Light 2017

Thank you, Thank You, Thank You for an incredible learning experience last week.  It was everything and more than I expected. Loved your passion, heart, enthusiasm, knowledge and professionalism. Loved that the techniques you taught so efficiently addressed the very challenges i had been trying to work through on my own. I returned home feeling confident and excited about taking my images to the next level. – Mary Desjardins

Dust-N-Light 2017

This was a magical experience for me.  Piper’s process for teaching photographers to see the light and pay attention to their background was an invaluable lesson to me.  I can’t wait to do the workshop again.  The V6 Ranch is an amazing place and our hosts could not have been more hospitable.  The wranglers worked tirelessly to make sure we got the shots we wanted. I enjoyed every moment! –Terri Granger

Turkana Festival and Wildlife Safari 2017

My trip to the Turkana Festival and Kenya wildlife with Piper McKay was a highlight of my travel experiences.  Piper’s photographic skills, her professionalism, and her planning down to the smallest detail, made the two weeks of the trip among the highlights I’ll remember forever.  How else would I ever have the opportunity to visit with the residents of tribal villages, travel with them, experience one-to-one a lifestyle so far from the one I left behind?  This trip offered amazing photographic opportunities, but made an indelible
Impression , teaching me how people on the African continent live and the challenges they face while maintaining their traditional way of life.
Thanks, Piper, for advancing my photo skills and teaching me unforgettable life lessons. – Fran Kaufman

Turkana Festival and Wildlife Safari 2017

I am a professional photographer who has traveled with Piper twice to Africa. The first time was to Ethiopia for the Lalibela Christmas celebration and to photograph the tribes of the Omo Valley. The second time, which I have just returned from, was to Kenya for safari and to shoot the Turkana festival and the tribes living near Amboseli and Samburu National Parks. Both trips were extraordinary and very well planned. My photographs have more than exceeded my expectations. I am thrilled with the images I got. Piper is very knowledgeable about Africa, the safaris and equally the tribes.

She is very hands on and passionate about all aspects of her tours. She is a very strong leader and will fight to get her clients into the best situations for them to obtain the photos they are seeking. I would highly recommend going on one of her photo trips. You will not be disappointed. I will be traveling with her again soon! –Nancy Ney

Spirit-N-Light workshop 2016

Two weeks ago I was fortunate to get the chance to spend 3 days at the V6 Ranch in CA with Piper Mackay for her Spirit ‘n Light workshop. I have been doing wildlife photography for about 6 years now and this workshop took my skills to a new level! I have participated in other workshops but never one in which I learned as much in such a short time. It was 3 intense, action-packed days, filled with real-time practice in the field. And it didn’t hurt to have had some good-looking cowboys and cowgirls as our models! 🙂 If anyone is thinking of doing a workshop of this type, I strongly recommend this one. – Karyn Schiller

Spirit-N-Light workshop 2016

As an experienced photographer, I’ve attended quite a few workshops. This was definitely one of the best. Piper is an excellent instructor who presented a variety of useful and interesting techniques, including those that help to create the sculpted light in her own gorgeous images. We had plenty of time to practice in a variety of settings, and the presentations and critiques in-between practice sessions were valuable. The ranch itself is peaceful and beautiful, with a super friendly, accommodating staff who were also excellent models. If you’re on the fence about signing up for one of Piper’s workshops, JUST GO. You’ll be happy you did. – Nicole Wilde

Kenya Wildlife Safari 2016

My wife and I traveled with Piper to Kenya in August, 2016. This was our second trip with her, having been to India with her as well. We booked another trip with Piper for good reason. Traveling with Piper is special. She fosters a climate of friendship among her guests. On each trip we made friends with other participants that continue today, and will for years to come. In Kenya Piper shined. Her years of experience in east Africa is obvious. Her knowledge of the area, animals, and people was evident throughout our three week trip.  During our trip we interacted with the residents of three tribal villages, and had up close wildlife experiences in four parks. This was accomplished without feeling rushed through the logistical support Piper had in place. Whether she was interacting with a local village or taking us on a safari drive her enthusiasm was contagious. Without her we would not have come away with the photographs, or more importantly, the experiences we tokk with us from our journey in Kenya. We highly recommend traveling with Piper. – Greg Thompson

Great Migration Safari 2016

Dust-N-Light

Turkana Festival and wildlife Safari 

Piper’s personal links to the individuals and tribes of East Africa plus her ability to share her wide store of photographic knowledge, make for a unique cultural and photographic experience. – Deborah Harrison

Spirit-N-Light Workshop

I just completed the spring Spirit n Light workshop with Piper Mackay.  What an amazing experience!  Piper encourages you to use light in such a way as to create images with drama and impact.  In conjunction with the ranch staff she creates unique opportunities to capture images in wonderful morning and evening light.  Through these she teaches you to consider how you are capturing light and environment while composing your images.  In addition to this you practice techniques such as panning and silhouettes that add to your photographers toolbox.  Piper has incredible enthusiasm and knowledge.  I learned , practiced and was inspired by this workshop.  Definitely a wonderful, worthwhile experience. – Catherine Page -Canada

“The Spirit-N-Light workshop was magical.   a  working ranch, Piper’s incredible expertise and enthusiasm, and individual attention for each participant allowed each of us to experience a photographic journey that will always be remembered”. – Bill Koenig

Exotic Ethiopia

Piper Mackay’s Ethiopia Tour was the trip of a lifetime.  The highlights were Lalibela Christmas celebrations, the Gelada Baboons in the Simian Mountains and visiting the tribes of the Omo Valley.  The tribal visits were a rare opportunity to see a way of life that has existed for hundreds of years before it changes from paving roads into the Omo Valley.  Electric poles were along the roads, which will soon bring electricity to the villages.  Piper presents many unique photo opportunities that you could not easily duplicate.  She is also there to coach you in improving your photographic technique.  I had to take the opportunity and I was delighted with the results. – Ken Slagle

Turkana Festival and wildlife Safari

I was very fortunate to participate in the Turkana Festival & Wildlife Safari, May 2015 with Piper Mackay and a group of 7 other enthusiastic photographers. I purposely chose this trip because this experience combined an opportunity to photograph wildlife as well as an opportunity to connect to different tribes in their natural habitats. This was truly a trip of a lifetime. Wildlife photography was very new to me and I learned a great deal in terms of technical issues such as speed of shutter, positing animals and more. I was fortunate to ride in a safari jeep with Piper at various times during the safari experience. Her knowledge, enthusiasm and expertise of the land and the animals enabled us to find several unique photography opportunities. One highlight for me was photographing elephants and zebra when they were dusting themselves. I will always remember the incredible gifts that Piper Mackay has given to the tribes of Kenya. Creating a relationship and building trust with the warriors of the tribes has been a special talent of Piper. Piper has reached out to remote tribe warriors, created a special trust, taught them about connections with people different than themselves and given them gifts that I know they will forever treasure. I will never forget the excitement that I felt when our safari jeep pulled into the small village of the El Moro tribe. Everyone ran out to welcome Piper and her photographers and screamed in glee. I particularly loved the Turkana Festival as my favorite photography subjects were people.My favorite part of the trip occurred when Piper said ” We have a special surprise later” Quite frequently during the trip, Piper arranged special surprises whether it was photographing warriors fishing at sunset or face pairing at sunrise or portraits on the rocks looking at the jade waters of Lake Turkana. Something exciting was always happening and very much reminded me of my experience at sleep-away camp when I was 12 years old. A special surprise and unique new experience always created an atmosphere of excitement, enjoyment and a verbs special opportunity. My friend, Randi was researching trip opportunities that were available in Africa. Randi said to me ” The person to see Africa with is Piper Mackay” and boy was Randi correct. Turkana Festival and Wildlife Safari was a highlight of my life experiences – Nancy Turret, NY 

Turkana Festival and wildlife Safari

In reflection, I could not have asked for a better trip.  From sharing my deck one afternoon with an elephant AND a couple of monkeys at Elephant Camp to the utter joy of meeting so many kind and welcoming people in the villages, the lodges and the festival, I will never forget the beauty of Kenya. The hard work you put in to the logistics of ensuring we as photographers had great opportunities was very evident and appreciated. The rapport you’ve built with the many tribes made it easier for them to embrace us as they embrace you. Our drivers/guides were incredibly knowledgeable and simply wonderful people. I really hated to leave, so I understand how you have come to love this country so well.  I chose this trip for the opportunity for the combination of wildlife photography (of which I’d done very little) and the fantastic contact with these remote tribes. I would recommend it to anyone wishing to experience a once in a lifetime journey.  I’m thrilled with the images I made on this trip.  – Lisa Thomas

Colors of India

I have done a lot of photo expeditions throughout the world, primarily with National Geographic. This was the best organized trip that I’ve been on, and I came out of it with more great photos than I’ve gotten from any other trip. I would do another trip with Piper in a heartbeat.  Eric Stoen

Spirit-N-Light Workshop

I have been struggling to master my camera and equipment.  My photos are technically good—but nothing dramatic.  This workshop helped me understand how to use the light to create dramatic photos.  Also, I learned the techniques to take photos using all the tools to capture action shots, sunrise and sunset shots and people shots under difficult conditions.  I have been too willing to take the shots that occur rather that create the shots that truly capture the drama and beauty. – Ken Slagle

Spirit-N-Light Workshop

a.  A fabulous experience!!!! Great opportunity to learn about the beauty of rim light.

b.   I decided to go to this workshop in preparation for the trip to Africa with Piper in August.  It was deninatly the right  decision.  Now I know how to use  my camera to be able to catch the dramatic effect of the light on the horses crossing the water.  Undoubtedly, this will pay off as we photograph the wildebeests crossing the Masai Mara during the Great Migration.  – Muriel McClellan

Spirit-N-Light Workshop

“Piper really knows how to make walking through a field of cow pies at six in the morning fun and exciting. Her energy and instruction during the workshop made it enjoyable and enlightening.  I have a much greater appreciation for light and motion now, and even managed to capture some of that magic in my shots.” – Dan Trimble

Spirit-N-Light Workshop

If you are looking to move your photography to a different level, the Spirit-N-Light workshop is for you.  The variety of location shoots was amazing. Reflections, horses galloping through water, portraits, panning, rim light – we had a chance to practice it all in a relaxed setting. Piper knew what she was doing and it showed. She waited for the light – whether it was hitting a hill at just the right moment or having the sun rise in a valley – we got to experience firsthand what she was talking about. There truly is a spirit in light and I believe all of the participants’ workshop photos reflect that. Piper has designed a memorable learning experience topped off by wonderful hospitality shown by the ranch, fabulous food and bringing together a great group to shoot with. I highly recommend it – Laurie Thomson – Ontario

Spirit-N-Light Workshop

Piper’s enthusiasm and love of photography are highly contagious and the whole weekend was so much fun. The location, the accommodations and all the people that we worked with were absolutely wonderful. The food was great. Not only did I get photos that I’m very proud of, I learned a great deal, made new friends and came away with an experience that I will always treasure. I would definitely recommend this workshop and I look forward to attending another one. -Ana Ramirez – California

 Omo Valley

Spirit-N-Light Workshop

Piper, you are the whole package!!! I have been on a few workshops and you top them all. Your extensive research, the program and the venue, combined with your enthusiasm, dedication, sensitivity, professionalism and photographic knowledge all came together to make for one fantastic workshop.  Being driven door to door by you was such a wonderful bonus for which I am truly grateful. You are one sensitive and caring workshop leader. THANK YOU for everything. – Astrid Fernandes, Toronto

Spirt-N-Light workshop

“Piper’s enthusiasm for the subject is very contagious!  She inspired us to try new things even though we are experienced photographers, and worked tirelessly to make sure we came home with a wide variety of images.” –Lillian Roberts

Spirt-N-Light workshop

“I was very fortunate to have participated in Piper’s Spirit-N-Light workshop held at the beautiful V6 ranch in Parkfield, CA. To photograph horses on those golden, contoured hills maximizing the magical early morning and evening light was a highlight for me. Piper’s passion for her art was front and centre throughout the entire experience. Her knowledge of light and her rapport with the ranch staff, allowed us so many opportunities to capture breath taking images, not just pretty pictures.  The log style inn accommodations were gorgeous, cozy, comfortable and lent marvelously to the western experience. And the food? Oh the food! Absolutely wonderful, particularly those warm baked treats ready for us when we would return from our morning shoots;-) Add to that the incredible staff and owners of the V6 ranch who couldn’t have been more accommodating, and you have one very successful workshop! I am an intermediate/amateur photographer and wouldn’t hesitate to participate in any of Piper’s workshops or tours. In fact, I will meet up with Piper again on her Best of Kenya tour in just a few weeks where I hope to apply some of the skills I’ve learned from her at the V6 ranch! Thank you so much Piper!” – Sandy Spurrell – Canada

Kenya Safari

“Being in Amboseli National Park, Kenya with Piper Mackay was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. She knows the area, the behavior of the animals and is a pro at directing the driver to get in position for that perfect head-on shot. I came home with priceless images and memories!”     – Laurie Rubin, Nik Software

Tanzania Safari

“Piper’s whole trip greatly exceeded our expectations. The trip ran amazingly smoothly. We were appreciative of Piper’s assertiveness with drivers and trackers to get the best possible photographic opportunities.  Although it is not a photographic workshop, Piper was very helpful with her periodic advice. We would are very willing to have prospective clients call us so that we can talk over our experience. over the telephone to anyone contemplating taking a trip with you.” -Garth and Jean Grimmer

Tanzania Safari

” I have traveled all over the world doing photo workshops and I have been with some of the very best and well known professional photographers. I have to say Piper provided an outstanding trip.  Her attention to detail was I believe noticed and appreciated by everyone. I would love to travel with her again and hopefully soon.”  -Vaughn Hart

Tanzania Safari

So, I have dreamed of going to Africa since I was a child and had talked about it for the past 6 yrs or more. The trip that we chose was one created specifically for photographers and we had the honor of traveling with some professionals. The IDEA in your mind of a trip to Africa may be so close to the truth, but the actual experience trumps on levels beyond belief. Piper was our leader, our teacher, and friend for 2 wks. She took us to spots in her back yard, that only a photographer would have the sense to go to with the urgency of a pro trying to ‘GET THE SHOT’, but also with the exuberance of a child. She’s done it so many times, but the familiarity and possibilities of something new is just so tempting. Over and over again we’d hear things like ‘Lions in trees!!! Go, Go, GO!!!! Leopards in trees! DRIVE FASTER!!!!! Look to your left!!!! Baby giraffe!!!!!!’ All with hands clasped tightly together and screaming with anticipation while we carried on to our next spot. It didn’t matter what camera you had, a point and shoot camera, a Nikon or Cannon, forty thousand dollars or two hundred dollars worth of equipment, she was CONSTANTLY checking to see if you were on the correct setting, simultaneously speaking about your subject and the correct vision to capture through the lens. Your minds eye will treasure the vision forever, but the LENS tells your story truthfully. I learned things from Piper that I would never have learned from my manual. Our gatherings for dinner would involve picture sharing from the days events, a lion kill, pool full of hippos, hyenas chasing a herd of wildebeest, etc. She would discuss the pros and cons of our moments, recap the days lessons, only to remind you again early next morning, to remember all we learned and discussed before venturing out to devour whatever eye candy mother nature decided to fatten us up on.  I will travel with Piper again. She has instilled in me, a deeper understanding to what I already had a burning passion for, seeing Africa and taking pictures. It does not matter what your knowledge of a camera is, she’ll simply show you the ropes and teach you all about the animals, the people, their culture, and the history of the land. It IS her backyard, and she knows it well. She knows all the creatures and their habits, where they will be, at what time, when they eat and at what moment you will get the best lighting for your shot. Be it for a magazine submission, or to show your grand children in an album, Pro’s, semi pro’s, hobbyists, whatever – I can’t imagine any one providing what Piper did on this trip. Thank you, Piper……so very much.  –  Gail Dermody.

Kenya Safari

I had a lot of fun to make this trip with Piper and other participants.The trip was very well organized with a large number of photo safaris.The driver-guides were very knowledgeable and we had the chance to see so many animals in exceptional circumstances and 4 crossings in 9 days.The steps in the tents were well chosen and magical. It was a really great moment. Thanks Piper for everything  -Brigitte – Bali, Indonesia

 Omo Valley

I signed up for this trip because I wanted to gain an experience that challenged the way I see the world; a trip that would be an adventure, and one I would remember fondly for the rest of my life.  I can honestly say I easily achieved all three and I have also become a much better photographer from it.

Spending time with these people is a truly magical experience and with Piper’s leadership and guidance, I was able to experience it to the full.  I found Piper provided the right balance of direction and flexibility, and I found her to be an excellent photography coach.  Things also change quickly in Africa, and Piper did a great job of handling these and giving us some flexibility in our schedule to decide what we wanted to do.  I recognize we were fortunate in having a small group that may make this less feasible with a trip with more people.  Perhaps most importantly, I felt completely safe on this trip, Piper does not cut any corners.

The portfolio I have created from this trip is truly fabulous and I can say that because of all the comments and reactions I have received.  There isn’t much published work like this available and I feel grateful to have had the opportunity to capture it before this way of life changes beyond recognition.  I also feel a bond with everyone in my photographs and I look forward to working with these people in some shape or form in future. If you are looking for an experience you will never forget this is the trip for you!    -Andy Robbins –  USA

Omo Valley 

I have been a tribal photographer throughout Asia and found these tribes to be amazing in their friendleness, and comfort around us and ability to go on with their observed life without discomfort.  Piper, you gave me a marvelous experience and I hope to return for more.    -Louise Porter