August heralds the beginning of the 'real' dry season in Southern Africa. Gone are the hot, humid and rainy days. Now there is a chill in the morning air and gone too is the lush summer fodder and the abundant free-lying water from the rains. The Mojale River has become a ribbon of life attracting all manner of animals and birds to its waters. The cliffs house baboon troops not willing to leave the water and the plains are filled with grazers milling around: all situations very conducive for an ambush by predators. This is 'Classic Africa' season. The light is excellent- with the sun setting as a red orb, animals are still in good condition and the sun remains low on the horizon throughout the day,making for longer photography hours. What more could a photographer want?
This workshop is designed to get photographers into the best areas to 'get the shots'. Here is where you take your wildlife photography from 'good' to 'great'. By learning the tips, techniques and methods of taking great wildlife images with professional photographers, you will gain great insight and knowledge while improving your wildlife photography.
Cost: R7 336 per person sharing Single supplement - R675 per person per night All Prices are VAT inclusive.
Availability: 12 people. 6 photographers. If more than 6 photographers, bookings will close. Feedback: Have images taken during the weekend critiqued by professional photographers Experience: All levels- groups sizes are small enough to for individual attention Equipment: Digital SLR's. Have at least a 200mm lens. Laptop if you have one. Includes: Notes and CD with notes, images and presentations, data projector for viewing on screen. Full board and lodging Location: Mashatu Game reserve, Botswana (Passports Required) Accommodation: Mashatu tented camp Not included: Transport to Pontdrift border post. Other: Park vehicles at secure area at border. A Ranger will meet you there and transfer you to camp. Arrival time 13h00. Depart 10h00 on last day. Bookings: CLICK HERE TO BOOK or DOWNLOAD BOOKING FORM
Aimed at beginner/intermediate as well as advanced photographers, this workshop brings like-minded people together to enjoy nature and learn more about improving their photography. Shem Compion, André Cloete or Greg du Toit will be your hosts over the weekend. All are award-winning photographers who will share their knowledge of wildlife photography on drives and during talks at camp.
There will be 2 x private vehicles for photographers:usually three photographers and 1 guide per vehicle. Non Photographers are allowed to join on the photographic vehicle if numbers allow- If not, Non-photographing partners will be on their own vehicle with a ranger.
Photographic possibilities are:
* Close quarter photography of Predators such as lion, cheetah and leopard. * Excellent, open sightings and photography of very relaxed elephants * Dry riverbeds breaking up the landscape. Elephants and other animals are often found drinking in these riverbeds. * General game is relaxed and easy to photograph * Beautiful plains areas interspersed with rocky kopjes. * A marsh area, when wet attracts all manner of waterfowl. * Beautiful sandstone rock formations on the Limpopo River- excellent for landscapes * Archaeological ruins in the Limpopo valley- part of the Mapungubwe society * Rhodes' baobab perched precariously on the edge of a rocky hill. * Viewing is generally open and clear- allowing for easier photography. * Large Baobabs and Mashatu trees dominate the skyline- providing excellent photographic subjects.
Accommodation:
Without stealing away any luxuries, accommodation is in a tented camp situated in the northern reaches of the reserve. Twin luxury safari tents offer you a luxurious rest in bush surrounds. Each tent has two large single beds, an en-suite bathroom with flushing W.C and its own private veranda to relax on. Breakfast and lunch are served in a main dining area whilst dinner is served in an out door boma overlooking an adjacent waterhole. There is a central lounge area to relax in, a plunge pool and a bar. A hide overlooks the waterhole next to the camp.
