Photography Tips for Your Nairobi Safari Tours
Planning a safari in Nairobi and want to return with stunning wildlife photos? Whether you’re using a smartphone or a DSLR, these safari photography tips from Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya will help you capture breathtaking moments on your game drives, cultural visits, and nature walks.
Capture moments like this lion in Nairobi National Park — just 20 minutes from the city
1. Bring the Right Camera Gear
If you’re serious about wildlife photography, bring a camera with a zoom lens (200–600mm is ideal). For casual photographers, smartphones with a good zoom or compact mirrorless cameras work great too.
2. Use a Beanbag or Window Support
You’ll often shoot from the vehicle, so a tripod isn’t always practical. A beanbag placed on the window ledge provides stability without the bulk. Cruzeiro Safaris vehicles are open-roofed for easy shooting.
3. Take Advantage of Golden Light
Morning and late afternoon game drives offer the best natural light — warm, soft, and dramatic. Our Nairobi National Park morning tour is perfect for this.
4. Focus on the Eyes
In wildlife photography, sharp eyes create emotional connection. Use your camera’s single-point autofocus to lock onto the animal’s eyes — especially with big cats and primates.
5. Frame for Storytelling
Instead of zooming all the way in, include parts of the landscape — like acacia trees, dust trails, or the Nairobi skyline in the background — to tell a visual story.
️ 6. Be Patient and Ready
Wildlife moments are unpredictable. Keep your camera on and finger near the shutter. Our guides help by positioning the vehicle for optimal light and angle.
7. Try Cultural and City Photography Too
Kenya isn’t only about animals — vibrant markets, traditional dancers at Bomas of Kenya, or feeding giraffes at the Giraffe Centre also make for great shots.
✅ Tours to Practice Your Photography Skills:
- Nairobi National Park, Elephants & Giraffe Tour
- Lake Naivasha Boat & Walking Safari
- Bomas of Kenya – Cultural Performance Tour
Bonus Tip: Back Up Your Photos Daily
Use a cloud service or portable hard drive. Nairobi hotels usually have Wi-Fi, so uploading at the end of the day is possible. Don’t risk losing those once-in-a-lifetime shots!
Need a private photo-friendly safari experience? Contact Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya today to create a custom tour tailored to photographers.