Freeman Safaris
‘Yesterday’s Safaris Today’
Wildlife Photographers Course
Many people who have come on safari with me have realised that they would have been able to make far better use of their wildlife photographic opportunities if they had a better understanding of their equipment and how to use it, particularly now that so much computer related processing is necessary to get the best results.
I have therefore decided to run a course specifically to address this requirement and have been fortunate enough to link up with John Devries of Ophrys Photography, an experienced professional wildlife photographer. John has been on safari with me on a number of occasions. He is a superb photographer who has helped and benefited many aspiring amateurs in the past. He knows how we operate and is dedicated to providing the time and energy that is required to assist participants in every aspect of digital capture. Do have a look at his website www.ophrysphotography.co.uk where you will see not only a large collection of stunning wildlife photography but also a number of extremely informative articles.
The safari will run in two parts. The first week will consist of tuition in camp after which John will accompany each vehicle in turn giving individual on-the-spot advice and help. During the second week full safaris will be run and there will be a review and critique session at the end of each day.
Tuition for the first week will include the following :
Camera basics - getting the camera set up for the situations we will encounter. Shooting Jpeg and RAW. White balance
Getting a sharp image - causes of soft or blurred images. Understanding shutter speed and ISO. When to hand hold, long lens techniques.
Keeping digital noise to a minimum - shooting ‘to the right’
Correct exposures - understanding and using the histogram, metering systems, exposure compensation.
Composition - getting a well composed image, understanding perspective and the importance of light in an image.
Getting something different - ‘arty’ images, sunrises, sunsets and backlit subjects
Taking the image in the first place is only half the story with digital. Basic post processing is absolutely key to getting good results and John will go over the basics of processing images to publishable quality.
Spouses and partners are welcome and will be kept occupied during the ‘heavy’ sessions.
All too often professionally accompanied holidays of this type are perceived as a way for the key person to obtain a free trip with very little in return. I have spent a lot of time looking for the right professional with the knowledge, character, dedication
and teaching skills and in John Devries I have found the best person to improve your photography immeasurably.
I am running this two week safari on 15th September 2010. Please see Availabilities 2010
© Freemansafaris.com
Photographically, I am really pleased with the results. You did a great job of getting us to the right place at the right time ! I also learned a lot about wildlife photography, especially from you and Andy. Without wanting to appear big-headed, I’ve had some competition success with my images. I came first in a Natural History competition with a photo of elephants fighting (by the riverside in Samburu). My other shots were in 2nd place (Oxpecker coming in to land on a water buffalo, taken in Nakuru), and Highly Commended (Battling Oryx – remember the afternoon with the glorious light ? – and a white rhino having a conversation with a starling, taken in Nakuru). I was also first and second in a Portrait competition with a Vervet Monkey and a photo of Stanley. I’ve also won and had commendations in some of the camera club league competitions with other shots of animals, birds, and landscapes
Andy & Anne
