“Never judge a book by its cover”, so the saying goes. I always do. Here’s a book that covers (a) wildlife and nature photography; (b) shows me “how” to record those incredible memories; and (c) relates the lessons specifically to a wildlife park that I love to visit. The Photographers Guide to Etosha National Park immediately caught my interest!

The authors and photographers of The Photographer’s Guide to Etosha National Park are clearly passionate about their subject. This shows in every photograph and in the detailed ‘how to’ explanation on each page. They want to share their passion for wildlife and photography with the world and they do it well. They do it with care and simplicity so that amateur or even more challenged photographers like me can understand and learn. Yet it is clearly going to be an invaluable reference for the experienced photographer.

Photographed between Halali and Namutoni

I really enjoy how the book shares secrets on where – and then how – to capture the best images.

Excerpt:

“Each chapter begins with a map of the area showing the locations that are discussed in the text. We focus on the waterholes and drives that have enabled us to get our best nature photographs year after year.”

Map and photograph of Moringa Waterhole

Tips and hints:

The night sky over Etosha, free of city lights and pollution, is breathtaking. I so often have longed to capture it, but all my attempts have been disappointing. An example of just one of the many excellent tips and hints can be found on page 18. Here, on the topic of photographing the heavens, crucial aperture and exposure tips are provided.

Namutoni Restcamp

Excerpt:

“For star-points you need to set a high ISO, open your aperture wide …… and set the shutter speed on ‘bulb’ with no more than a 25-second exposure. The earth is revolving so anything longer than 25-seconds will result in streaks and not star-points.”

Maps:

The maps provide great information. The larger area maps provide the reader with a perspective of the general area, waterholes, camps, distances, routes and more. The individual camp or waterhole maps will be especially invaluable to the visitor. It shows not only what time of day you need to visit to get the best results but the direction in which you should position your camera for various shots and effects. There are hints to help you decide what camera lens to use and what position may better suit the type of picture you would like to capture.

Animal behavior:

Crucially important is an understanding of animal behavior. When will a lion be at the watering hole; when are elephants more active in a particular area? If lions are around, will leopards share a watering hole? These are all important questions to ask and answer to maximize the time you have in a park or at a camp.

Highlights, lessons and general info:

Chapters include a description and the highlights of each location, where to park your vehicle, the key species that visit that water hole or camp and the time of day that will yield best results. Some also tell you about routes that detour off the main road for added photographic opportunities. Just think how much precious time this saves on a self-drive trip around the Park! There is more: learn from pages 117 – 120 how to photograph at night. The book discusses the seasons, how to get there, where to stay and a host of information that will ensure your trip to Etosha is a memorable one.

Dolomite Restcamp and Waterhole

My conclusion? I will definitely be taking this guide book along on my next trip to Etsoha – and recommend it for all the practical, specific and easy to understand lessons and tips it contains, for your visit to Etosha National Park.

To purchase The Photographer’s Guide to Etosha National Park please visit: http://www.kruger-2-kalahari.com/photographers-guide-to-etosha.html

Authors of Photographer’s Guide to Etosha National Park: Mario Fazekas, Kathryn Haylett & Jenny Fazekas

Mario and Jenny Fazekas

Kruger-2-Kalahari

Kathryn Haylett

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