Things I Have Learned About Nature Photography

I'm wrapping up Africa with a big bow today.  Here are the top things I learned on my first trip to Africa and my first attempt at being a nature photographer.  

Size matters!

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This is the truck that Cedric and Elyane live and travel in while shooting in Africa. This isn't your momma's camper trailer!

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Shoot low.

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Really low.

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Good friends make good tripods.

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Boats can get you close.

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Or make you feel like you are in the clouds.

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Someone needs to watch for crocs.

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Wardrobe matters. You need a jaunty chapeau.

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A cool pair of shades.

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And even if you can't fly a plane, it's good to look like you can.

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Guides are very important.  If you want to get this:

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You need a good pair of these:

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You're welcome, ladies!

Hippos are shy.

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Shoot 12 frames a second even if the subject isn't moving.

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You can't be afraid of heights.

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Stay on the good side of the law.

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Kids everywhere love cars.

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Complete with a trunk, review mirror and a presidential hood ornament.

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Photographers never stop shooting and French women always look chic, damn them!

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Happy Hour is universal.

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Photographers love a good cause.

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Nelson Mandela is big there.

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Now for the bow and the shot I thought I would never be able to craft and the one that brought tears to my eyes (I know, I'm a sap!). The lunar rainbow at Victoria Falls.

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Another bonne nuit!

See more of the images that made me love nature photography at cedricjacquet.

Sign up to get more information on a good cause at PPNAT, Photographers for the Preservation of Nature.