Tips for photographing wildlife ethically on safari

So you’d like to photograph wildlife, or you’re already doing so, but you want to make sure you’re doing the right thing. Read below for some tips you can apply to shooting wildlife with a camera when on safari.

When photographing wildlife, the welfare of the subjects is paramount.

The welfare of the subject is the most important thing

It’s key that photographing the creatures causes no risk or harm to them, from a lion all the way to a dung beetle. Their welfare always comes first. As you’re entering into their space and their homes, being respectful of their habitats will keep everyone happy.

When animals are breeding, feeding, taking care of their young or returning to their homes, they are at their most vulnerable and they may exhibit higher anxiety levels and caution than usual. Be mindful not to stress them out by maintaining a good distance from the outset, respecting their space, and moving right away as soon as they show signs of agitation. Loud noises, including loud human voices, or the sound of a barrage of vehicles can disturb these creatures so drive slowly, stay quiet, and enjoy the natural beauty before you. There’s nothing quite like observing wildlife in their natural, happy way of being.

When animals are taking care of their young, they are at their most vulnerable. Give them space, watch from afar and keep quiet so you don’t give them cause for stress or alarm.

Careful of disturbing their homes

Being sure not to disturb their habitat- their home- should always be at the front of mind. This means being careful not to walk or drive over any areas that may look like a nest or burrow. Remember somewhere in a patch of vegetation is a home for many living, and often fragile, creatures. Any need to move or disturb vegetation should be kept to a minimum. Shrubbery and foliage serve as protection against predators and the elements, which has everything to do with a creature’s survival.

Keep your distance from any hunts taking place to ensure you don’t interfere with the process- it’s literally a matter of life and death.

What you are watching could be a matter of life or death

Stay away from getting in the middle of hunts- watch from afar, and let nature take its course. For example, if a cheetah is stalking prey, any disturbances between the cat and its target may mean the difference between a happy, well-fed cheetah family or a starving one.

Flashlights and torches cause temporary blindness

Don’t shine torches unnecessarily into the eyes of animals- in the dark, this causes temporary blindness and can mean all the difference between being able to survive, especially if they’re being hunted by a predator.

Bait is bad

Firstly, baiting is completely prohibited and will attract heavy fines, and more importantly, it’s unhealthy for the wildlife for a wide range of reasons including health, bacteria and dependency.

While getting that perfect shot might be the ultimate prize, do so ethically, and don’t forget to put the camera down to enjoy the moment also.

Happy snapping!