The 600th TWIP video was posted a couple of weeks ago and after rewatching it numerous times I was left in awe at the quality of photographs coming out of the Londolozi archives from the last 11 and a half years. It reminded me of the countless amazing sightings I have been a part of over the last while and the thought of;

“Should I be taking photos, trying to video, or just put the camera down and enjoy the moment?”

We are incredibly lucky at Londolozi to bare witness to some of the most beautiful subjects to photograph.

So here are a few factors I weigh up in my mind when presented with this dilemma, and as a disclaimer, often with hindsight I wish that I had chosen one of the other two options. Basically, in my opinion, there is no right or wrong answer, but rather different considerations to weigh up. I know Sean often struggles with whether to take photos or try to video and in trying to do both can often end up in getting neither.

A large giraffe full keeps a beady eye on the Talamati Young Male Lion as he proudly struts along the airstrip with three hyenas in tow.

The Power of Photography:

Photography has long been synonymous with safari adventures. Still images allow us to capture the essence of a single moment frozen in time. Three main draw-cards of photography that stand out to me include:

1. Preserving memories

Photographs possess the ability to transport you back to the exact moment you clicked the shutter. They encapsulate the beauty of wildlife, unique landscapes, and intimate encounters, preserving those memories for years to come. You can of course easily print out photographs and display them wherever you please.

One of the Black Dam Males walks away from the setting sun to explore his new potential territory.

2. Flexibility

Photography allows you to snap spontaneous shots and focus on individual subjects. It provides the flexibility to adjust settings, experiment with various lenses, and adapt quickly to changing lighting conditions.

Sometimes unique opportunities present themselves and if you’re familiar with how to change settings on your camera, photography can give you great flexibility

3. Artistic Expression

Photography offers a creative outlet, enabling you to play around with composition, framing, and exposure. You can showcase the intricate details of an animal’s fur or the striking colours of a sunset, capturing the essence of the scene with precision and artistry.

Sometimes if you are not presented with orthodox opportunities, photography allows for beautiful abstract opportunities

The Allure of Videography

While photography offers an array of benefits, videography brings a different dimension to capturing the magic of a safari experience. Benefits of taking videos whilst on your safari include:

1. Immersive Storytelling

Videos have the power to transport viewers into the heart of the action, offering a more immersive experience than still photographs. They capture movement, sounds, and the ambiance of the safari, allowing you to relive the adventure in greater depth.

 

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2. Dynamic Moments:

Some experiences in the wild are best portrayed through motion. The grace of a leopardess stalking her prey or a herd of buffaloes thirstily approaching a waterhole truly comes alive through video. Videography allows you to capture these dynamic moments and showcase the behaviour and interactions of wildlife.

 

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3. Enhanced Context:

Videos offer a broader context, allowing viewers to understand the sequence of events and the environment in which they unfold. They provide a more comprehensive narrative, conveying the atmosphere, sounds, and emotions associated with the safari experience.

 

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So, whether to hit record or press the shutter?

After eluding to the benefits of both photography and videography, its important to consider the following factors:

1. Is the subject obstructed by any trees, grass, or other objects?

If this is the case then taking a video is usually a safer bet. Trees and branches can often act as an effective frame for a photograph but in my opinion, a video isn’t as adversely affected by unwanted obstructions compared to a photograph.

 

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2. The personal preference of the viewer

Your personal interests and the way you perceive and connect with the world might influence your choice. Reflect on whether you prefer capturing singular moments or telling a broader story.

Sometimes it’s not all about the big five.

3. Equipment and Expertise?

Assess your familiarity and comfort level with photography and videography equipment. Consider the gear you own or plan to invest in and evaluate the learning curve associated with each medium.

Along with being familiar with the equipment, having an idea of how to enhance images through post-processing can also bring a photograph to life.

Putting the Camera Down and Enjoying

There are also moments that are best enjoyed by putting your camera down and simply enjoying the intricate relationships playing out before your eyes. Sometimes it’s impossible to physically capture a moment through your viewfinder and it’s most appropriate to create that mental image in your mind to be replayed when you return to everyday life. An example of this is a leopard walking right past the vehicle, being that close to one of the most majestic animals in the wild is an absolute privilege and it’s close to impossible to forget, for that reason, it might be best to simply marvel and enjoy.

The Senegal Bush Male crosses the airstrip as a ray of late morning light catches his golden coat.

Whether you choose to freeze a moment in time through photography; immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the wild through videography, or simply take it all in, your safari experience at Londolozi will be truly unforgettable.