Safari Photography Guide — Capturing the Serengeti
Camera settings, lenses, timing and vehicle technique for photographing the Central Serengeti, from the team at RAFIKI Camp on the Orangi River.
Cameras and lenses
Any modern mirrorless camera with fast autofocus performs well — the Sony A9 series, Canon R7/R5 and Nikon Z9 are popular choices. A minimum of 300mm is recommended; 400–500mm is the practical sweet spot for most subjects, with 500–600mm for birds in flight. A second lens around 70–200mm covers landscapes and wider context.
Settings
Use 1/1000s as a baseline for walking or browsing animals, and 1/2000s or faster for action. In low light at dawn and dusk, raise ISO to protect shutter speed — motion blur spoils more images than high-ISO grain.
Light and timing
The first 90 minutes after sunrise and the last 90 minutes before sunset are the golden hours. RAFIKI game drives are timed precisely around these windows.
From the vehicle
A private vehicle means you can position for the light and wait for the moment, rather than share a bench with strangers — one of the quiet advantages of staying at RAFIKI.