Gorilla Tracking Safari
Track endangered western lowland gorillas, observe forest elephants, bongos, and mangabey monkeys, and join the local Ba'Aka tribe on a net hunt in the dense rainforests of the Dzanga Sangha reserve.
From $10,345 per personMenu
Photography Tips for Gorilla Trekking
Gorillas
Gorilla trekking is a rare chance to take some of the best photos in the world. Below are some tips that will help you take amazing pictures during your gorilla trekking trip.
Preparing your Gear
- Camera Body: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with good low-light performance is ideal, as the forest can be quite dim.
- Lenses: A zoom lens (70-200mm or 100-400mm) is essential for capturing close-ups without getting too close. A wide-angle lens can also be useful for scenic shots.
- Spare Batteries and Memory Cards: Bring extras as you’ll be shooting extensively.
- Rain Cover: Sudden rain showers are common in the rainforest, so protect your gear with a rain cover or waterproof bag.
Camera Settings
- ISO: Use a higher ISO setting to compensate for low light but be mindful of noise. Modern cameras handle ISO 800-1600 well.
- Shutter Speed: Aim for a shutter speed of at least 1/250s to freeze movement. Increase this if gorillas are active.
- Aperture: A wider aperture (f/2.8 - f/5.6) allows more light but be aware of depth of field. Adjust as needed for group shots.
- Burst Mode: Enable continuous shooting to capture multiple frames of fast-moving gorillas.
Techniques for Better Shots
- Stabilisation: Use a monopod or image stabilisation feature to reduce blur from hand movement.
- Focus on the Eyes: Eyes convey emotion and are the most compelling part of wildlife portraits.
- Natural Light: Utilise the natural light filtering through the canopy. Position yourself to have the light behind you for well-lit subjects.
- Patience and Silence: Stay quiet and patient. Observe gorillas’ behaviour and wait for the right moment to shoot.
Ethical Photography
- Keep Your Distance: Keep at least 7 meters away to avoid disturbing the gorillas and reducing the risk of disease transmission.
- No Flash: Flash can startle the gorillas and disrupt their natural behavior. Ensure your flash is turned off.
- Respect the Guides: Follow the instructions of your guides regarding photography. They know the best practices for both your safety and the gorillas’ well-being.
For any photographer, gorilla trekking is an exhilarating experience with great rewards. Incredible animal stories can be told through stunning images captured using correct preparation, equipment and skills necessary for this kind of adventure. Be sure to always photograph responsibly and respect the natural environment.
Gorilla Trekking Safaris
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