Photographing gorillas in their natural habitat is one of the most captivating wildlife experiences. However, it requires special techniques, respect for the animals’ space, and an understanding of the unique challenges presented by dense forests. In this guide, we’ll delve into the top tips and techniques to ensure you capture stunning, respectful images of these incredible animals.
1. Choose the Right Camera Gear for the Environment
Selecting gear specifically suited for the forested environment is critical. Lightweight, durable equipment makes trekking easier, and a reliable zoom lens allows you to capture gorillas without disturbing them.
Lens Stabilization: Many telephoto lenses have built-in stabilization, which is beneficial for handheld shots at high focal lengths.
Portable Tripod or Monopod: Although it’s usually advised to minimize gear, a compact tripod or monopod can be helpful for stable shots, especially in low light.
High-Resolution Sensor: A camera with a high-resolution sensor can capture more details and make cropping easier. This is beneficial for shots where you need to adjust the composition in post-production.
Selecting gear specifically suited for the forested environment is critical.
Tip: Bring a cleaning cloth for your lens. Forest conditions are often humid, and condensation can form, affecting clarity.
2. Know Your Camera’s Advanced Settings
Gorilla photography often involves moving light sources and quick reactions, so advanced settings can help capture sharp, well-lit images.
Custom Modes: Many cameras have customizable modes, like C1 and C2. Set up these modes for common gorilla photography settings (e.g., low-light or burst mode) to quickly switch as lighting or motion changes.
Exposure Compensation: In shaded forest areas, using exposure compensation helps prevent dark, underexposed images.
Back-Button Focus: This feature allows you to separate focusing from the shutter button, ensuring faster focus adjustments without accidental captures.
A Sony A7SIII flip out screen showing camera settings used during Gorilla Trek
Tip: Practice adjusting settings without looking at the camera. Quick reaction times can be crucial when gorillas are on the move.
3. Respect Distance and Ethical Guidelines
In addition to turning off your flash, consider wearing neutral clothing to blend into the forest and avoid startling the gorillas. Many guides recommend wearing shades of green, brown, or grey.
Prevent Unintentional Contact: Don’t position yourself between a young gorilla and its mother, as this could be perceived as a threat.
Use a Silent Mode: Some cameras have a silent or "stealth" mode. Using it minimizes disturbances and allows the gorillas to carry on naturally, improving your chances of capturing candid moments.
A photographer maintaining distance during Gorilla Trek
4. Understand Gorilla Behavior for Better Shots
Learning about gorilla behavior beforehand can help you anticipate their movements and interactions.
Hierarchy Awareness: Silverbacks are often the protectors of the group and display dominance. Photographing these interactions requires respect and patience, as silverbacks may initially position themselves protectively.
Communal Living: Watching gorillas interact in their group offers many storytelling moments. Look for bonding activities, such as mutual grooming or playful chases among younger gorillas.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to guides’ cues. Experienced guides know the gorillas’ personalities and can help point out when a memorable moment may unfold.
A large Silverback Gorilla surrounded by thick foliage.
5. Incorporate the Surrounding Landscape
Capturing the gorillas within the context of their lush environment brings a unique beauty and authenticity to your photos.
Experiment with Depth: Using a low f-stop (such as f/2.8 or f/4) allows you to blur foreground leaves or branches, framing your subject in an immersive, forested setting.
Capture Weather Elements: If there’s morning mist or rain, embrace it. These natural elements add depth and atmosphere, enhancing the storytelling.
Tip: Show not only the gorillas but also the scale of the towering trees or dense jungle. This can give viewers a better sense of the gorillas' natural surroundings.
6. Use Burst Mode for Action Shots
Capturing gorillas’ movements in high detail requires quick, continuous shots. Burst mode is ideal for:
Interactions: Burst mode is especially useful when gorillas are interacting, such as mothers cuddling their young, juveniles playing, or siblings grooming each other.
Catching Expressions: Gorillas’ expressions change rapidly, and using burst mode can help you capture subtle emotions, such as curiosity, contentment, or alertness.
Tip: Set your camera to the highest frame rate in burst mode for the best chances of capturing the exact moment you want.
7. Focus on the Eyes and Faces
The expressions in a gorilla’s face tell a story, often more powerful than the surrounding environment. Focusing on the eyes creates an emotional impact that resonates with viewers.
Eye-Level Angles: Where possible, shoot from an eye-level angle for a more intimate and engaging photo.
Emotional Moments: Capturing tender interactions, such as a mother holding her baby, gives your photos a warm, human-like quality that resonates deeply.
Pro Tip: If possible, focus on one eye for a highly dramatic effect that draws viewers into the image.
8. Prepare Physically and Mentally for the Trek
Photographing gorillas requires not only camera skills but also physical stamina, as trekking through dense jungle can be demanding.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Bring plenty of water and some snacks. The trek can be long, and keeping your energy up is crucial to avoid fatigue, which could make you miss important moments.
Dress Appropriately: Wear moisture-wicking clothes, sturdy hiking boots, and consider gloves to protect your hands from the vegetation. Also, consider wearing insect repellent and sunscreen for added comfort. For more ideas on what to wear on your Gorilla Trek, check out our Packing List.
9. Capture Unique Behaviors and Personalities
Observing gorillas for unique behaviors or quirks adds character and charm to your photos.
Juvenile Playfulness: Young gorillas often engage in playful antics. These moments make for entertaining photos that showcase the lighter, curious side of gorilla behavior.
Unique Traits: Each gorilla has distinct characteristics, such as facial scars or unique expressions, that make them memorable. Documenting these individual traits can bring more personality to your images.
Tip: Learn some behavioral cues from your guide. Knowing when a silverback is about to stand or make a vocalization helps you be prepared to capture those powerful moments.
10. Commit to Ethical Photography for Conservation
Responsible wildlife photography ensures that gorillas are safe, undisturbed, and able to continue living freely in their natural habitats. Practicing ethical photography means following guidelines not only for your own safety but also for the conservation of these endangered animals.
Contribute to Conservation Efforts: Many parks and reserves rely on tourism revenue to fund conservation projects. By respecting the guidelines and contributing through your visit, you’re helping protect these animals and their habitats.
Avoid Over-Editing: When editing your photos, aim to enhance natural colors and clarity without altering the authenticity of the gorillas or their environment.
Remember: Ethical photography is about more than just following rules—it’s about actively supporting conservation and respecting the well-being of wildlife.
Tip: Prepare for steep, slippery terrain. Trekking poles can be useful, especially during rainy seasons when trails can be muddy.
Bonus Tip - Plan for Backup Equipment
When you’re photographing in unpredictable environments, having a backup plan for equipment is wise.
Extra Batteries and Memory Cards: Due to the high demands of burst mode and potentially long trekking hours, batteries can drain quickly, and memory cards fill up faster than expected.
Portable Power Banks: A compact power bank can be invaluable for charging devices on the go, especially if you’re on a multi-day safari with limited access to electricity.
Dry Bags for Protection: In a rainforest environment, unexpected rain can be common. Dry bags can keep your equipment safe from sudden weather changes.
Conclusion: A Rewarding Experience Awaits
Gorilla photography in the wild is more than capturing images—it’s about being part of a conservation journey, respecting the natural world, and experiencing the magic of these majestic creatures. By using the right techniques and equipment, committing to ethical practices, and appreciating each moment, you can capture unforgettable images that truly reflect the essence of the gorillas.
Ready for your adventure? Africa Adventure Safaris offers guided tours that provide both ethical experiences and opportunities for photography, ensuring a memorable and responsible journey into the world of wild gorillas.
