Safari2003

My Photo scholarship 2011 entry

Worldwide | Tuesday, November 8, 2011 | 5 photos

At the end of an eleven month world tour in 2003, I was fortunate enough to spend 3½ months in Eastern and Southern Africa. However, I only had a 3.2 megapixel compact camera that fitted in the pocket of my cargo pants for easy travelling. Therefore, rather than being able to zoom in using SLR telephoto lenses, I had to apply patience, timing, and the knowledge of my guides to help me obtain some memorable photos.

In some instances, such as the flower in Paarl Botanical Gardens, near Cape Town, South Africa, were willing subjects that waiting for me to frame the photo, but others, such as my favourite coloured bird in Africa, the lilac-breasted roller, only landed for a few seconds, and so I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to photograph it up close.

Patience paid off in Ruaha, Tanzania, when spotting the king of beasts after a kill. Notice the fact that even the king has his own troubles to deal with, due to insects eating away at marks on his face.

The Namib desert offers many an adventure traveller a chance to explore the vast open spaces of Africa, whilst the colour of the sunsets, such as this one in Selous, Tanzania, gives the opportunity to reflect on its serenity and simplicity.

If I was to win this award, I would take the opportunity to return to this vast continent with the Canon 7D I purchased last year to help improve my photography. I love my travel, and am extremely eager to tap into the wisdom of experts to improve my photo memories of the many places that I visit. I look forward to the opportunity if it should be granted. Thank you.