Exploring infinity
4 am in the Serengeti...
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Jul, 2016Views
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mandarkarkare
February 03, 2017
beautiful concept and great shot , I felt as if you are calling / giving signal to somebody from the outside world. Superb
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
This shot was taken in the Southern Serengeti, at Sanctuary Kusini on a massive granitic gneiss.Time
It was very early in the morning (3 30 am), we had woken up as we had to prepare coffee for some of our guests departing early for a hot air balloon ride. The lions were roaring nearby, the stars were so bright, it was just magical !Lighting
I loved the stars and how much they came out owing to the absence of the moon. However I needed a foreground subject: my silhouette would have looked odd if alone, so I opted for a shining beam to connect to the milky way, thus creating a story and a better composition.Equipment
This was shot with a Nikon D750 and a Nikkor 24 mm f2.8 prime which is a an absolute beauty! I found this old lens online for a bargain and I just love the quality of the glass and how it renders light in such a unique way. I placed my camera on a tripod and set the timer on 10 sec to allow myself to come into position. The light used was a 'maglite' and I pressed it for just a second.Inspiration
I have been extremely lucky and honoured to call the Serengeti my home for 2 years. Managing a lodge in the Southern part was an extraordinary experience. With a deep passion for astronomy and a background as a professional guide, I used to take our guests on ' cosmic safaris'. After dinner, as the night would perfectly reveal its gems, we would climb the nearby rock and watch the stars. We would go through diverse mythological routes and scientific trails. Sometimes the wilderness would choir for us... It was magical. I wanted to take a shot that would illustrate our fascination and journeys to the cosmos.Editing
I always post process with Lightroom: I added a bit of boost to the stars (clarity + highlight) and reduced the noise. I then went unto photoshop to add a little more impact by adjusting the levels and voila !In my camera bag
In my bag I always have my trusted Nikon D750, my 70-200 f2.8 and my 24 mm f2.8 prime. I do not have much equipment yet and working for it! However these are the useful things I keep in my bag while out in the wilderness: - lens pen, microfibre, dust blower - lights, knife, lighter, rope, zipties - compass - two big scarfs (to protect from dust/rain) - spare battery - power food (nuts, dried fruits) - WATER - sunscreenFeedback
Photographing African nights in the wilderness is magical yet one should always follow the golden rule: safety first ! The african bush hosts many stunning creatures who could potentially harm you. It is vital to plan your shoot and to be appropriately guided. Lodges have wonderful guides, night guards, staff and managers who are trained to apprehend such environment. Speak to the relevant staff members and plan your shoot accordingly. If you are camping and on your own: safety, safety, safety! You must have a clear visibility of your surrounding and know and understand the risks. Wildlife is not dangerous if respected: know your space, respect theirs. Your campsite (providing you are not just off the track) is a great place to capture fantastic images while remaining safe. Try to never be alone and always have someone watch around for you. Your life is more important than a shot. As for a more technical advice: your tripod is never too much. Meaning, always pack your tripod ! Night photography is extremely fun and rewarding. Happy safe shooting !
