Uganda offers some wonderful photographic opportunities given the
incredible diversity of scenery, people and wildlife found here. Starting with
the primates, gorillas and chimpanzees are notoriously difficult to photograph
as they are dark subject matters usually in shadow, so you will need to use a
high ISO if not taking a tripod or monopod, something which is recommended for
serious photographers. A good zoom lens is essential with a minimum of 300mm required but more if looking to get some excellent close ups. It is also
important to remember that there is a lot of moisture in the forests, so you
will need to keep your cameras dry as the lenses can fog up very quickly and
therefore best to keep a dry cloth handy (easier said than done on the hikes!).
It is also worth putting some silica gel packs in your camera bag to absorb moisture.
The camera should also be protected against the dustier parks such as Queen
Elizabeth National Park and Kidepo. Given the scenery in Uganda is so
spectacular, from snow-capped mountains, active volcanoes, rolling savannah and
dramatic mountain rainforests, it is worth considering taking a wide angled
lens. The people in Uganda are also incredibly photogenic and markets and fantastic
places to get some great shots. It is always nice to strike up a conversation
with someone before even asking if you can take their picture. Not only is this
polite, but will put them at ease and make for much more natural shots. Please
do not be offended if they decline and respect their privacy. Children are
usually delighted to have their photograph take, but again, always ask first. Avoid
any financial transactions for this, rather buy something from their stall or
promise to send them a copy of the picture through our agents. Finally, it is
best not to take pictures of any military or government personnel of buildings.
If you are very keen on photography,
then some lodges are better than others at catering for your needs and Jan,
Feb, June and November are very good months for photography. This is just after
the rains so the air is less hazy, with clear views across the lush, fertile
countryside and much of the vegetation looking green. This is all great however, but it is equally important to take a few minutes, particularly when with the gorillas, to put the camera down and enjoy the moment. The one hour you spend with the gorillas will go so quickly, take time out to actually take it all in - of course this will be also be at the precise moment, when the silver back yawns or a tiny infant appears only feet from you, so it is easier said than done!