Lessons from Africa: People

Here's the third in a series of lessons learned on Creative Photo Academy's 2023 Kenya Photo Safaris. In the history of photography, humans are the most interesting and most famous subject. Looking at the top 100 photos of all time, humans are by far the most captured subject. On safari in Africa, and at virtually every travel destination, photos of people are a golden and often missed opportunity. Which people do we capture? Your travel companions, as well as the local people doing what they do! Let's explore adding the human element to our safari and travel photos.

Lesson 1: Snap creative photos of your travel crew in action.

Your fellow travelers, friends and family on safari are an obvious subject. Photographing them interacting with the local people and animals captures a great memory. Sharing where you are and what you are doing is your prime responsibility as a travel photographer. Look for unique moments, creative framing and perfect light to make the most memorable picture.

Lesson 2: Candid photos of local people can make award-winning images!

The people who inhabit your favorite travel destination make it special! Photos of the locals in Africa are most often interesting, and they will generate questions and win awards. Your guide pointing out the wildlife, local farmers tending their crops, villagers singing and dancing: these are easy photos to achieve, and quite rewarding. A wide to normal lens is often the right tool to show the subject in the scene. Choose a fast shutter speed to freeze the action and a medium aperture to hold focus into the background.

Lesson 3: Share intimate portraits of the people you meet.

Whenever you are on safari or traveling, there are moments with the local people where you make a connection. Capturing that moment with a portrait can be priceless! Engage your subject, position them against an attractive or neutral background, and control the light on their face. Choose a medium telephoto lens (80 to 120mm) with a wide aperture (f/2.8 or f/4) for success. Your portrait will be a great memory for you and your subject. Be sure to reconnect with your subject and send them their beautiful photo.

Simba Marara Expeditions and Creative Photo Academy are always preparing our next photo safari. Join us on an amazing adventure to capture wonderful wildlife in places like the Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti and one of Mark's favorite safari lodges at Lake Ndutu, with visits to local markets and villages along the way. We will capture stunning wildlife and people photos. Our team will guide you to the best locations in comfort and with style. Every adventure features fantastic opportunities to see the animals, make stunning photos and learn about their behavior. We hope you will join us in Africa, or in Yosemite, Death Valley or Yellowstone!