PHOTOGRAPHY

If you're into photography, there's nothing more exciting than getting to take your passion on the road.  So, whether you're going out into nature to get a great shot of a sunrise, a stunning river or another amazing natural wonder, or if you're heading to the city to capture the stories of the people who live there, the safari nature of the trip is the same.

'Safari' is a good name for this trip because, just like that hunter going into the deep jungle to bag big game, you're going to the unknown to get that perfect photograph.  You'll need to get your preparations spot on.  When you're driving, you've got to stay focused.  But most of all, you've got to be determined to get what you came for. You've got to hunt down the prize you want to bag, not with a gun but with your camera.

Just make sure you don't overpack for your trip!  It's easy to do, because you might feel like you need to bring everything in your studio "just in case".  First of all, if you've got all your photography gear with you, there's a pretty good chance something will get broken or stolen.  You've got to know how to strip down your travel gear to just the essentials if you want to get the job done.

But how do you know that if this experience is new to you?  One thing you could try is doing a few "dry runs".  Just as you used to take some test photographs when you were first learning, try taking one or two trips to the next town.  Just do these without feeling like you've got a deadline or a deliverable to meet.  A trip to the zoo in the nearest big city to take pictures will show what is needed and what isn't.  Then repeat the exercise to take photographs out in the country where you may have to backpack your equipment in.  You'll soon work out what "stuff" is worth the extra weight and what needs to stay home.

Your photography safari is a business trip, and you've got a mission.  But your mission is about more than just going somewhere to get a snapshot.  Every picture has its own character and soul, and the more you become a part of the environment you're travelling in, the better your "eye" will be at capturing the perfect shot.

Yeah, just make sure you keep your eyes on the prize and stick to the plan.  But don't forget to enjoy the trip.  If you're going to take a picture of a natural wonder, like Mount Rushmore, for example, it's worth spending time visiting with others going to that sight or talking to locals. You might find some locations and secrets about the site that other photographers wouldn't get if they just came, took a photo and left.  Use the "down time" to charm the other travellers and let them charm you.  You'll get a hundred times better photos and have a lot more fun.

When you finally reach your destination, all your hard work should pay off.  It's really important to keep your eyes on the prize here.  When you're on the road, it's easy to get a bit obsessed with your kit, the way you've set it up and your settings.

Make sure you do all that before you leave, or in the hotel room the night before.  When we're out and about, the focus is on your subject, not the gear you're using.  Your equipment is there to help you.  Don't worry about it.  Trust yourself that you did a good job getting ready.  You've got good equipment, you've prepared the lenses, checked the batteries and done everything right.  It'll all be ready when it's needed.

So, just keep your eyes on the prize, yeah?  You'll need to use your expert eyes to judge the lighting, the angle and every other part of the shot. This will help you to decide if it tells the story that you know this photograph has to tell.  This is where the artist in you can really shine, working together with the photographer to create a photo that you'll be proud to show off.  If you stick to your guns and get that shot, you'll definitely be on a photography safari home with a big one to add to your trophy room.