Mashatu Game Reserve, known for its diverse activities, offers a premier photography experience led by PhotoMashatu and its knowledgeable photo guides. Our photography experience is a key highlight, enhanced by the expertise of our photo guides who accompany guests during various activities such as visits to our photo hides/blinds, excursions in our specially adapted photo vehicle and stays at our overnight hide/blind.
A photo guide’s day often begins in the pre-dawn hours, around 04:30. This early start is driven by the understanding that the first light of day offers the most captivating opportunities to photograph wildlife at their peak activity. The cool, still morning air and the dimly lit landscape create a sense of anticipation for both the guide and our guests.
Before heading out, the photo guide collaborates with the main guide to review weather forecasts, animal activity reports, and recent sightings to determine the most promising routes and locations. The photo guide also ensures our guests are well-prepared: checking that cameras are ready, lenses (from long telephoto to wide-angle) are inspected, batteries are fully charged, and memory cards are formatted. Guests receive a thorough briefing covering what to expect during the activity, important safety precautions, and valuable photography tips tailored to the conditions and potential subjects.
As the sun begins to rise, painting the landscape in the warm, soft hues of the golden hour, the photographic possibilities become truly magical. This time of day offers chances to capture nocturnal animals before they retreat, as well as the early activity of predators. Patience is crucial, and the guide helps guests understand that wildlife appearances and movements can be unpredictable but yet prepares to be ready.
The early morning light is ideal for capturing stunning silhouettes against the sunrise, reflections of animals in water, and the beauty of wildlife amidst dewy grasses. As the sun climbs higher, the guides lead guests through Mashatu’s diverse habitats—dense forests, open plains, and along riverbanks—each presenting unique photographic scenarios. Our photo guides share their knowledge of animal behaviors, explaining feeding patterns, mating rituals, and territorial displays, while also advising on the best camera settings to capture these moments effectively.
Throughout the morning, guests learn how to anticipate key moments, such as a bird preparing for flight or a predator on the prowl. The photo guide offers practical instruction on adjusting camera settings for varying light conditions, mastering techniques for photographing fast-moving subjects like birds in flight or running animals, and principles of composition, emphasizing elements like eye contact, framing, and background.
Beyond the technical aspects of photography, our guides also foster an appreciation for the local ecosystems, discussing conservation efforts and the importance of responsible wildlife photography – always prioritizing the well-being of the animals over the pursuit of a shot.
Following the morning activity, the photo guide returns to the lodge with the guests, allowing for a midday siesta. Often, the photo guide will meet with guests an hour before the afternoon activity to review the images captured during the morning session, providing feedback and further guidance.
The afternoon brings a resurgence of animal activity as temperatures cool and creatures emerge from the shade. This is a prime time for capturing dynamic behaviour, with big cats often becoming more active and birds engaging in nesting, feeding, or courtship displays. The photo guide assists guests in positioning themselves for the best angles, taking into account light and background. They might suggest using natural elements to frame subjects creatively and remind guests of the need for fast shutter speeds to freeze motion or the use of panning techniques for sharp images of moving animals. Adapting to the constantly changing light conditions by adjusting ISO, aperture, and shutter speed is a key skill shared by our guides.
Soon after sunset, the nocturnal world begins to stir, presenting chances to photograph elusive species like owls, bats, insects, honey badgers or porcupines, often using subtle lighting techniques with the utmost care to avoid disturbance.
For guests who have booked our overnight hide experience (running from 16:00 to 09:00), the photo guide ensures they are well-equipped to make the most of night photography from the hide, offering guidance and support for the night.
Looking to book your dream safari trip to Mashatu Game Reserve and thinking of adding a PhotoMashatu experience to it? Contact reservations@mashatu.com to find out more.
