Boating safaris offer a unique perspective for photographers. Combining the thrill of adventure with the opportunity to capture wildlife from a variety of interesting angles.

To delve into the world of photography we sat down with Andrew Macdonald, a seasoned wildlife and travel photographer who has spent the last 7 years photographing Africa. 

In this interview, Andrew shares invaluable insights and tips for preparation and overcoming any challenges that may arise on a boating safari.

Read the interview below:

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Bonamy: When was your first time on a boating safari?

Andrew: That would have been in 2016 on the Okavango Delta when I was working as a guide/host. It was a combination of speed boats and Mokoro.

Bonamy: Were you already into photography then?

Andrew: I was just taking photos for myself really, and the pictures were very average! At the time, it was not at all on my radar to go into photography as a career.

Bonamy: When was the first time you took photos on a boat, as a professional, and were you aware of the differences/challenges compared to in a vehicle or on land?

Andrew: That would have been the Lower Zambezi with Time + Tide. My first canoeing trip really made me realise how amazing the photographic opportunities were from a boat!

Bonamy: What do you enjoy the most about taking photos from a boat?

Andrew: I love the different perspectives that you can get. It's difficult to get to eye level from a vehicle, and from a boat, you can get shots looking up at the animals and from a bunch of different angles that you would never usually get. It also feels like the least intrusive way of getting closer to wildlife. 

Bonamy: What is your favourite animal to photograph by boat? 

Andrew: Bird life is way more relaxed when you're just drifting past. This creates lovely opportunities to linger and get snapshots of them going about their routine, like bee-eaters swooping in to collect flies hovering above the water. Another great sighting is elephants swimming - all you see is a line of trunks sticking out of the river. It's like something out of a cartoon really.

Bonamy: What challenges do photographers face when shooting from a boat?

Andrew: One thing is that stability is out of your control. No gimbal or tripod is going to save you from the inevitable bopping/ebbing and flowing of the boat. It's all about being flexible and able to move as the boat does and twist into position to get the shot.

Bonamy: What is the best lens to take on a boating safari if you could just take one?

Andrew: I would recommend a 200-600mm lens for its versatility, but otherwise take them all - I do! 

Bonamy: Do you have a favourite type of boat?

Andrew: The canoes in the Lower Zambezi. It's completely quiet, and you have a guide leading the way as you watch elephants, lions and the sort on the banks. I love it. 

Bonamy: What is the best time of day for boating safari photography?

Andrew: Predominantly, mid-afternoon when the animals are thirsty, and then leading into sunset. But your local guide will know best and will tell you about the animal behaviour patterns for that area. 

Bonamy: Any tips for shooting in the harsh midday sun?

Andrew: Since the lighting isn’t ideal, look for interesting behavioural moments such as elephants’ mud wallowing. Try and shoot so that the sun is behind you and lighting up your subject, rather than shooting into the sun or when your subject is in mottled light or shadows.

Pop over to Andrew’s website, Instagram and YouTube channel to learn more about his career as a photographer and the different places he’s ventured along the way.