ETOSHA - Namibia scouting trip September 2016
Posted by Wild4 Photo Safaris on 3rd Oct 2016
This is a collection of photos taken on a 6 day scouting trip I recently completed. I spent 3 nights in the west and 3 nights in the east of Etosha National Park in Namibia to get a better feel of the park and to scout some of the better waterholes that offer photographic opportunties. Highlights were a Leopard at Olifant Bad waterhole, a male Cheetah, Lions at Okondekka, my first sighting of a Ludwig's Bustard, lots of Giraffe, Red Hartebeest, Gemsbok and Springbok, Elephants and a fantastic martial Eagle.
These are the kind of images we can expect to achieve on next years "ETOSHA & SECRETS of the KALAHARI DESERT" photo safari, which will be focussing on African wildlife that has adapted to dry and harsh environments. Both 2017 trips have sold out, but we will be running the same itinerary in 2018.
Enjoy some of the photos.
Best wishes
Stu
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On arrival we were treated as part of the family by Stu Porter, his wife Justyna, and parents John and Ann. The conditions for finding and photographing everything from small birds to large game was perfect – a 500mm lens on hire from Stu, a specially equipped vehicle, which was referred to as a hide on wheels ( with only 3 photographers) , a dedicated and professional approach to photography and plenty of time.
We would set off at sunrise, find a group of lions as they were beginning to yawn and stir from sleep, or a pair of saddle-billed storks building a nest, and quietly move our cameras into position. The initial sighting was accompanied by the rapid firing of shutters, but then we would wait as long as necessary in the hope of getting further shots. Stu was very sensitive to our needs and would only make suggestions about the best camera settings if he thought we needed his advice. His awareness of how animals behave was very useful in planning our shots.
Stu’s 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, I too recommend you contact Stu Porter at Wild4.
David Austwick, UK
When two photo trips organised by my tour operator were cancelled. I looked around and found Wild4.
Justyna was extremely helpful in putting together a tailor made tour just for me.
I opted for 8 nights Kruger, 2 nights Big Cats & the Reptile extension. Some emails later and all was booked and paid for.
I tend to shy away from flash but as we were doing a night shoot at the Big Cat Reserve, I quickly learned a great new technique and the photographs turned out wonderful. In short, Wild4 Photographic Safaris is the one you want to book with to get the best opportunities.
This is not the last time I will make use of their services. Thank you Justyna & Stu for a wonderful time.
Rob Pelle, NETHERLANDS
Every shot of these wonderful animals makes me long to come back to Africa for another visit. Thanks for sharing these remarkable photos with us. Hope to see you soon for another Wild 4 Adventure!!!
Toni Anderson - October 04th, 2016 at 5:33pm
Some amazing photos there Stu, plenty of DOF use mate…
Del Hunter - October 04th, 2016 at 10:26pm