David Austwick
UK
On arrival, we were treated as part of the family by the Wild4 Team. We had everything we needed for the task – a specially equipped “Hide on Wheels”, a dedicated and professional approach to photography and plenty of time.
The initial sighting would be accompanied by the excited, rapid firing of shutters, but then we would settle and wait as long as necessary in the hope of getting something different. Stu’s awareness of animal behaviour and camera settings was very useful in planning our shots.
His knowledge of African wildlife and skill as a wildlife photographer is second to none, and I have learned a lot from his expertise. I am delighted with my photos!!
This was the trip of a lifetime, good accommodation, delicious food and great company. It was altogether a wonderful, challenging and thrilling experience and, if you are looking for a photo safari in Africa, contact Stu Porter at Wild4.
George Cathcart
USA
Wild4's photo safari to Botswana featured two expert guides, Stu Porter and Nkosi Sibanda and the abundant wildlife of four different Botswanan hot spots. Those features alone are worth the price of admission, particularly since they include vehicle modifications that ensure the best possible photographic experience.
We spent the first ten nights in expedition-style mobile camps, “roughing it” with bucket showers and drop toilets and listening to the leopards, elephants and hyenas wandering in and around the camp at night. However, the expert staff made "roughing it" a pleasure, preparing perfect meals, including fresh-baked bread and cakes and ensuring that the camp was safe and clean.
We finished the 12-night trip in a luxury lodge on the Chobe River, where we photographed from a boat customised to accommodate serious photographers, in a waterway full of hippos and elephants and lined with Africa's most iconic birds.
If you can only go once to Africa, go to Botswana with Wild4 Photographic Safaris. They will take care of every detail of your safari. If you are an old Africa veteran, ditto. You just can't go wrong with Wild4.
Dan Dimaggio
USA
Stu ... Cannot say enough great things about Wild4. The entire Porter family is #1 in my book. I shall recommend you to friends as often as possible.
You made my trip the very best and one that I'll always remember.
Thanks again.
Ulhas Mayekar
USA
I have always dreamed of taking a photo safari to Africa but had a disappointing first attempt last year. The urge was still there, so after some more research, I came upon Wild4 African Photo Safaris. I was excited that this time I would really get the experience I was hoping for, and it did not fail.
The pre-tour information left me well informed. I could already tell that this would be an adventure of a lifetime. On safari, Stu’s knowledge continued to surprise me. Not only does he know about photography, but his familiarity with the animals and their environment is unbelievable. This meant he never let us miss an opportunity. Stu was patient and informative. His tips will help with all of my future photography endeavours.
This Wild4 Safari went above and beyond all of my expectations. It really was a dream come true.
Murray Richards
AUSTRALIA
This was my 3rd memorable trip with Wild 4. The wildlife in Tanzania put on a show for us from dawn till dusk. Cheetah's, lion prides, leopards, the birth of a gazelle and zebra. Migrating herds of wildebeest and zebra's - this trip had it all!
Superb locations, great accommodation, amazing food and unique scenery. I'll definitely be going back with Wild4!
What sets Wild4 apart is their attention to detail to support photographers and videographers. Small groups, well-selected locations, high-quality camps/lodges and well-trained guides makes for a very well organised and intimate photographic safari experience.
They provide not just a beanbag, but a beanbag 'system' for each photographer! They provide panning plates, and photographic platforms designed by an experienced wildlife photographer. The Wild4 team understand the needs of photographers on safari.
I can't recommend them highly enough for your African wildlife photographic experience.
Andrew Oliver
CANADA
For thirty-five years I have dreamed of going on a photographic safari in South Africa. I have finally realised that dream and my hopes and expectations were surpassed in every way.
I researched extensively before settling on Wild4 Photo Safaris. What an inspired choice that was! This family company provides the perfect safari experience for photographers of every skill level.
Stu is a fine wild-life photographer and a first-class teacher. His knowledge of the habitat and habits of the animals and birds to be found in Kruger National Park is simply encyclopaedic. My 25-year-old daughter and I eagerly adapted to the early morning wake-up call, to go off into the wilds in one of Stu’s specially fitted jeeps, to catch the sunrise.
Every day brought its special moments and we returned home with thousands of photos to sort through and cherish for the memories they’ll bring back.
A safari with Wild 4 is a photographic experience with a master photographer, an initiation into the wonders of South African wildlife and spectacular landscapes - and an experience of friendship as everyone aboard the jeep bonds in common purpose.
Everything about Wild 4 is first class. The organization is superb, accommodations excellent, choices of locale perfect. Our safari with Stu and Wild4 was truly the experience of a lifetime.
Doug Croft
USA
I found Wild4 through an article in Popular Photography magazine. I saw that Stu and Wild4 offered the kind of experience that I wanted:
- Small groups of dedicated photographers.
- Variety in wildlife viewing.
- Tuition on photography and wildlife behavior.
- Good communication and organisation.
I can say that Wild4 met and exceeded all expectations on all points.
We used one vehicle for three photographers. Being a trained photographer himself, Stu always got us into the best position with the best light. Three on the tour meant plenty of room for equipment and the ability to shoot from either side of the vehicle.
The three places we visited, each provided a unique experience and wonderful variety in scenery and wildlife viewing.
Stu's tuition was excellent but never pushed. Tips, reminders, anecdotes, all given with patience and good humor.
From the first email, the communication was timely & clear. Justyna was a joy to work with.
Wild4 didn’t provide the wildlife or the spectacular sunsets that we experienced, but they put us in a position to enjoy and capture them with our cameras and in our memories. Our safari was amazing and I would not have changed a thing.
If you're looking for a Photo Safari, there is nothing to consider. Just go ahead and contact Wild4 Photographic Safaris. You will not be sorry.
Bud Ralston
United States
I've been traveling the world and taking pictures since 1966. Several weeks ago, I was privileged to join Stu Porter and Mamai John of Wild 4 African Photo Safaris in Kenya for eight days of the great migration. As expert photographers, they lined me up for the best angle, lighting, and vantage point available on EVERY shot! They are experts in the zoology of the area, knowing every bird and mammal, their behaviors, estrus cycles, life spans, etc. Mention the desired photo opportunity, and they will take you to it. Camp Entim is a priceless jewel. The lodge, restaurant, and individual tents all have views overlooking the Mara River. The "tents" were more excellent than most five-star hotel rooms. The food here was Michelin Three Star quality. Being a fussy eater, I've learned not to expect much, especially from remote locations. Was I wrong. I ate every bite of every meal, unfortunately gaining the accompanying weight. Worth every bite! The service was exceptional. I would go back there again just for the hedonistic pleasure of the visit. Stu Porter and Mamai John are class acts. They provide the best possible photographic experience to their clients. When I return to Africa, I will only look to them and Wild 4 Africa Photo Safaris to arrange my trip. Bud Ralston
Maureen & Trevor Lovegrove
UK
From the moment we contacted Wild4 we were impressed with the prompt, friendly, enthusiastic way our queries were answered by Justyna. Nothing was too much trouble.
Stu is a passionate wildlife photographer eager to pass on skills, ideas, techniques and information.
The wildlife sightings were awesome, amazing, exciting - just a few words that come to mind.
We have had many safaris in various countries but this surpassed them all.
The only decision now is not if, but when we return.
Rita Daubeney
UK
Thank you so much for the best safari I have ever been on and for your tremendous help with both the photography and Lightroom.
I now understand more about both than I ever have. Everything was brilliant.
We were extraordinarily lucky with what we saw and my greatly improved technique means I will have memories that will last forever.
Your Wild4 attention to detail means that things run smoothly in a part of the world not always known for that.
I really can’t thank you and Justyna enough.
