Wide Angle Conversion

East Africa Safari Charters For Scenic Safaris,Sightseeing & Aerial Photography

East Africa region  has the most beautiful geographical features,wild animals,birds,snakes and insect that you would love to see.

East Africa is comprised of  Kenya ,Tanzania,Uganda they  have both tented camps,lodges ,camping sites with 5 star,4 star,3 star hotels for accomodation in the National Parks and major cities respectively.

When visiting these countries you will be able to do scenic safaris, Sightseeing & Aerial Photography safaris,Mountain Climbing,Camel Riding, Boat Riding,Fishing Safaris,Golfing Safaris,Sporting Safaris among other activities and hence the need to famiralize yourselve probaly with your camera,Video to avoid dissappointment when on holiday.In Tanzania you will be able to sightsee Mt kilimanjaro and Mt Meru situated in Moshi as you fly in,then visit national parks as Serengeti,Ngorongoro Crater,Lake Manyara, Sasakwa,Maji Moto, Pemba Island, Mafia Island,Mahale,Kogatende,Lobo,Grumeti(Kirawira),Fort Ikoma,Ndutu,Seronera,among others.In Kenya you will visit  ,Masai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, Shaba, Joys Camp, Wamba,Loisaba, Desert Rose, Solio, Lake Naivasha, Tsavo West, Tsavo East, Diani (Ukunda), Malindi, Lamu Island, Kiwayu,Chyulu Hills, Rusinga Island, Mfangano Island,Mt Kenya,Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria, Lake Rudolf,Wasini Island and Funzi Island at South Coast, Fort Jesus in North Coast,Kitich among others.In uganda you will visit the Murchisson Falls, Kabalega Falls,Karuma falls, Fort Portal,Lake Albert and there is the home of "Gorillas".There are  scheduled flights especially to Masai Mara,Samburu, Amboseli, Tsavo East/West,Diani,Mombasa, Malindi,Serengeti,Grumeti,Lake Manyara,Ndutu,Lobo,Sasakwa,Kilimanjaro,Mafia Islandi,Entebbe,Kampala but the rest which we have not mentioned you have the option of private charters ranging from 1 to 37 seater and this will depend on your need.

Did you know there are photographic Techniques to enable you take quality photos for your archives which you will show to your grand and great grandchildren.

PHOTOGRAPHIC TECHNIQUES

For the most part,the secret to successful photography lies in the photographers ability to master and contral several major factors-those of exposure,lightining depth of field,defination and composition.If all these factors are successfully mastered you will be producing many pleasing pictures.

EXPOSURE

The vast majority of modern cameras have built-in metering systems, which works to a high standard and greatly reduce the possibility of picture failure as a result of incorrect exposure.However , there are many occassions when an automatic metering system may let you down, for example when photographing white birds,or light coloured animals, against a dark background or, alternatively , dark birds or animals against a light sky or background.Under such lighting conditions knowledge in the use of +/- compensation is required. In the case of white/light subjects against dark backgrounds, the metering system may well be influenced to a great extend by the dark areas, thereby over exposing your main subject.This will require you to under  expose or retain  detail in the important white/light subject areas.Conversely in the case of dark subjects against light skies or backgrounds, the light areas may well over influence the metering, resulting in a silhoutte of the main subject. This problem will require you to over expose in order to obtain detail in the shadow or dark areas  of your subject.Many present day cameras have a +/- compensation facility to aid the pohotographer with these  awkward exposure situations.Alternatively the same result can be obtained by changing the ISO rating of the film being used ,although with the advent of DX coding this may not always be possible .Whichever way you choose to compensate , do remember to cancel any over or under exposure settings before moving on the next situation.

In cases where determining the correct exposure is in doubt , it is advisable to "bracket " your exposures. If your metering system inddicates an exposure of 1/60th at f8, for example , teke one picture at this setting, then two further exposures either side of it,  so 1/60th at f5.6 and 1/60th at f11. One of the resulting exposures should produce what you require,but experience with your own equipment under these difficult conditions is the only real answer.

It should also be remembered that the exposure tolerance of transparency film is far,lower than that of negattive film.The LCD monitor on digital cameras will give an instant indication of what your pictures look like and badly exposed results can be deleted and retaken.

LIGHTING

During the course of a single day in East Africa , the lightining conditions experienced can vary tremendously . The conditions experienced in the early morning are often the most pleasing,the low angle of the sun producing wonderful saft lighting,with excellent modelling of the subject.These lightining conditions are often repeated in late afternoon with the addition of a warm glow towards sunset.From late morning to mid afternoon lighting conditions  can be very challenging, with the sunlight often directly overhead, resulting in rather flat lightining effects.

In most cases, standard portraits of East Africa birds and mammals are taken with the sunlight behind the photographer, thereby fully lighting the subject.It is always worth experimenting with other lighting arrangements, particularly side or back lighting.These lighting conditions often produce spectacular and usual pictures of even the most common bird and mammal species.

DEPTH OF FIELD.

The range of "f" stops available on each individual lens determines depth of field.In most landscape pictures, taken with wide-angle or standard lens, there is a neccessity for maximum depth of field, to render as much of the foreground, middle and far distance as sharp as possible.To achieve this results , it is necessary to select a small aperture ('f"stop) of f16 or f22. This will consequently result in a slow shutter speed, so ensure you use a tripod or some other means of support to reduce the risk of picture failure as a result of camera shake.

For individual images of birds or mammals, using longer lenses,it is often better  too select a large aperture of f5.6 or f4. This will result in  the background being thrown well out of focus, which in turn will help to isolate your main centre of interest be it bird or mammal. The use of a large aperture in these circumstances will also help to eliminate background distractions by rendering them out of focus.

Dont forget that you can check the depth of field created by any given "f" stop by using the depth of field button on your camera body.This button allows you to preview the finished image and to adjust it to your  own satisfaction prior to making any exposure.

DEFINITION

The success or fauilure of any photograph is dependent to a great extend of defination. On the whole, modern lenses are produced to a high standard and give excellent defination: any unsharp results are usually attributable to other causes.The most frequent cause is, doubtedly , due to camera shake during exposure . Another cause can be movement of the subject during exposure: this can be lessened to a great extend by the use of a fast shutter speed.

It is, however, worth remembering that in some instances movement of the subject during exposure can often result in a pleasing pictorial image, such as animals running or flocks of birds flying.

COMPOSITION

Unlike many elements of a photograph which are automatically undertaken by the camera itself , composition demands an active input from the photographer. It is therefore in your own interest to be fully conversant with the factors relating  to good composition.

Many newcomers to photography tend to produce all  of their images in a horizontal format .Cameras work equally well when turned through 90 degrees !Do remember to fully utilise the possibilities of   a vertical format.

Also remember to consider changing your viewpoint on occasions. Dont always photograph from a standing position, and explore the possibilities of photographing a subject by kneeeling or even lying on the ground. Dont always photograph from the open roof of the vechicle on game drives. Use the windows occassionally , as it can often add impact and provide better scale to the resulting pictures.

In the case of bird or mammal portraits , having decided on your format and viewpoint,you need to concentrate on the size and placement of your subject within the picture area.Generally speaking most subjects need room to move or look into the picture space, so avoid cropping your image too tightly ,unless of course it is your intention to show a close-up of the subjects head.

Try to avoid placing your subject in the centre of the picture space, instead consiously divide the space into "thirds" , both vertically and horizontally nd place your main point of interest where the lines cross.Do pay attention to the line of the horizon, particularly in landscapes.Keep it along the "thirds " and, at all costs, keep it level.

When it comes to precise framing, zoom lenses are very usefully, allowing control over subject size and perspective. In some cases the size of the main subject can be quite small within the picture space,provided that the inclussion of more sorrounding adds information or pictorial interest of the finished image.

By utilising a range of lenses it is often possible to secure an interesting sequence of images of a bird or mammal,i.e 50mm showing the creature in its habitat, 200mm or 300mm producing portraits and 500mm to 600mm depicting the head only.  Sequences like these can often add variety to subsequent slide shows or print albums.

THE MOMENT OF EXPOSURE

Having located your subject and decided on the elements of exposure , lighting and composition, when do you press the shutter? This , of course , is very subjective , but any animal or bird potrait will be greatly improved and have a "sparkle of life" if you can make your exposure when a "highlight" is visible in the eye of your chosen subject.This is particularly important if the eye of the subject being photographed is dark and sorrounded by black fur or feather.

You should always attempt to maintain concentration when photographing any subject, remaining alert to the possibility of a yawn, scratch or wing-stretch , which may provive you with only a fleeting moment in which to capture the action.

MOVING SUBJECTS

Animals or birds " on the move" present the photographer with some interesting problems.Supporting the camera is a major concern as the use of a tripod of monopod is usually too restricting for this type of work.Other than hand-holding the camera , a rifle stock or shoulder pod is probably the only option available . Either way you should endeavour to use the fastest shutter speed available,to minimise the risk of camera shake. Capturing any moving bird or mammal is best accomplished by "panning".Thisn technique involves moving the camera in the same direction and at the same speed as the subject and taking the picture while the camera is still moving.Any resulting pictures will have a feeling of movement, showing the subject in sharp focus with  the background blurred due to the motion of the panning camera.

GETTING CLOSE TO BIRDS AND MAMMALS

whilst  on safari the vast majority of your photography will be undertaken from a vechicle during game drives. Many opportunities also exist for wildlife photography on foot, within the grounds of safari lodges and at specially designated areas wthin the National  Parks and Reserves.

At  many of the lodges getting close to birds is often quite easy,due to the tame nature of many species . Others, however, require some knowledge of basic " stalking " procedures to gain a close enough approach for worthwhile image size in the finished pictures.  A void walking straight towards your intended subject, as this is likely to cause it to fly away, whereas a slow angled approach is more likely to succed. Watch your subject during your approach and should it appear , the less likely you are to frighten your intended subject. It is also a good idea to make use of any natural cover that terrain may offer.

Many of the safari lodges in East Africa provide food and water for the local bird population and these feeding areas can offer good photographic opportunities. Even if the bird tables themselves are non-photogenic you can attempt to photograph  birds on natural perches as they make their way to and from the feeding areas.

You should ercise considerable caution when "stalking" mammal species , always keeping in mind that they are wild animals and can be extremely dangerous.Never try to atempt monkeys or baboons to come closer with food items -this is a sure way to get badly bitten.

CODE OF CONDUCT

The National Parks and Reserves of East Africa operate a strict  Code of Conduct for both drivers and visitors.A short, simple lists of dos and donts have been implemented to minimise disturbances to the birds and mammals, to lessen the impact of tourism on the enviroment and to ensure that all visitors experience safe and enjoyable safaris.You are advised to let the driver follow the Park and Reserves regulation other than pressurizing him which may result into jeopardizing his/her job and run the risk of being expelled from the Park.Also noise shouldd be at minimum, particularly when close to animals and never leave the vechicle , sit or stand on the roof, or hang precariously from the windows.Dont ddiscard any form of litter, apart from being unsightly it can cause serious injury or even kill animals if ingested.Cigarettes are best avoided during game drives, the careless or accident discarding of a match or cigarette stub can lead to uncontrollable fires, resulting in the deaths of many leaving creatures.

It is adviseable when visiting East Africa whenever you are ,please seek permission before you take the local people a photograph and be prepared for the possibility of paying for privilege.Dont even attempt to photograph Military Installations or personal it is prohibited.

With these Photographic Techinques are will be able to know how to get quality phots for both standing and moving subjects.You are also aware of the regulations for both photography when on foot, in the vechicle and what you need to do and not assume may be the Tour Quide is being unfriendly.

A private charter will give you the opportunity of scenic safaris, sightseeing & aerial photography,Helicopter Safaris of many of the East Africa geographical features as you head to your destination.There are aircrafts ranging from single engine and twin engine piston 1 to 8 seater,turbo prop 10 to 37 seater twin engine and the Citation Bravo Jet 7 seater which are availble and quotations are given instantly on request.

If you want Boat Riding Safaris, Camel Riding Safaris, Sporting Safaris , Filming Safaris,Birding Safaris, Golfing Safaris and Fishing Safaris it can be done depending with your requirements, what a deal?

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

Anthony Juma is the Editor  and Senior Aviation Director at Wings Over Africa Aviation. 
This is an Air Charter Company that specializes on scenic,aerial survey & photography,air ambulance,medical evacuation.emergency evacuation flights Kenya/Tanzania/Uganda/Juba/Rumbek/Mogadishu/Galgayo/Hargesia/Kilimanjaro/Zanzibar/Mombasa/Kisumu/Kitale/Mandera/Wajir/Lokichogio. The website has guided thousands of travelers to achieve their dream holiday. For more information and guidance, visit the site at http://www.wingsoverafrica-aviation.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=56&Itemid=71

My new wide angle conversion lens - part 1 of 2