Gorilla photography is a common activity in silverback gorilla trekking tours in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. YES, each traveler at least wishes to have the best shot of a silverback gorilla as a take-home after his/her gorilla trekking adventure. The fact that gorilla trekkers are urged not to take anything from the jungle except the memories and gorilla pictures, each traveler needs to have the best shot of these gentle giants in their natural habitats. At times, gorilla photography becomes tricky given the dense forests in which they live. Also, gorillas are normally on the move which makes it difficult to have the best shot of them of you are not so smart. Silverback gorilla tour brings you 7 tips for the best gorilla photography in Africa. These include:
Gorilla Photography Tips
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Get Low (Kneel or Sit Down)
Get as low as possible if you want to have the best gorilla photography. If you can kneel or sit down to have the very best shot of the silverback Gorilla. Lying low gives you the very best capture of the gorillas which are seen sleeping, interacting, and feeding. Taking photos while standing straight does not bring clear photos of the endangered gorillas. If you cannot knee or lie you can still bed to make sure you have the very best of your gorilla photography adventure.
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Focus on the eyes of gorillas
Having a picture of the silverback gorilla looking directly into the camera is very beautiful. Always focus on catching the eyesight of the mountain gorillas to have the very best shots of these endangered primates. Remember to remove the flashlight to avoid irritating the endangered primates
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Do not use a flashlight
Travelers are advised not to use flashlight cameras when taking gorilla photographs. Flashlight irritates the endangered gorillas and this can make them react in a wild manner ruining the entire gorilla safari. Endeavor to turn off the light and take the very best shots of mountain gorillas without any hindrances.
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Use a wide aperture
You are also advised to use a wide aperture if you have the best mountain gorilla photography safari. The wide aperture makes the background blur bringing out the best portrait of the mountain gorillas living their lives. A wide aperture allows enough light to enter the camera giving out the best image.
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Adjust the lenses
The fact that you will be roughly 7 meters away from the endangered mountain gorillas, adjusting camera lenses is highly advisable. The commonly recommended lenses are 70 and 200mm if you want to have the best shots. However, if you are in a wider specie, adjust the lenses to 24 and 70mm
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Keep a distance
If you want to have clear pictures of the mountain gorillas, keep a distance of at least 7 meters from the gorillas. Keeping a distance gives you a chance to have the best shots compared to someone so close to the gorillas. Step back from other clients, hold your camera tight, and take the best shot of a lifetime.
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Carry extra battery
There is nothing as frustrating as reaching into the jungle only to find that your battery is low or shutting. Not having enough battery for your cameras can ruin your entire mountain gorilla trekking experience
Other things you should know about gorilla trekking
Where is the best place for gorilla photography?
Uganda and Rwanda are so far the best places for gorilla photography in Africa. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park in Uganda and Volcanoes National park in Rwanda shelter the highest number of mountain gorillas which make the best spots for gorilla photography. However, the dense impenetrable jungles of Bwindi make it difficult for photography at times. The bamboo forests of Volcanoes National park make it easier for the camera lenses to go through making photography a success.
Where is the best place to see gorillas?
The best place to see mountain gorillas depend on the client’s choice. Each gorilla destination is unique and offers an exceptional gorilla trekking experience. Uganda shelters the highest number of gorillas and at cheaper at $800 compared to Rwanda at $1500. On the other hand, Rwanda offers Luxury gorilla trekking tours and Volcanoes Park is easily accessed compared to Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla Parks in Uganda. Congo gorilla tours are the cheapest at $450 but rebel attacks and conflicts have led to the closure of Virunga National park till further notice.
What should I pack for gorilla trekking?
In addition to the cameras, travelers coming to see silverback gorillas are advised to pack light hiking boots, rain jackets, sun glasses, hat, inspect repellants, toiletries, First aid kit, and long sleeved shirt/blouses. Long pants, Energy giving snacks and gardening gloves among others. Packing the right things is one step of ensuring a successful and enjoyable silverback gorilla tour
