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CONSERVATION

Do You Want to Improve Your Photography Skills Through Conversation?

If you’ve always dreamt of spending your days photographing lions, elephants, and giraffes, you might be an excellent candidate for our wildlife photography volunteer project in South Africa. Share your passion for photography and wildlife conservation awareness, while ultimately working towards a greater good!

What awaits you is a bunch of exciting game drives and close-encounters with wildlife in the African bush. On your wildlife volunteering journey, you’ll contribute to important conservation efforts first-hand! You’ll get to capture precious moments while witnessing some of Africa’s most incredible animals in their natural environment.

Our SDG Impact in Africa for Wildlife Photography Programs

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Our dedicated team of Field Guides and Researchers in South Africa actively support the above United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring impactful conservation efforts in these diverse regions.

Why Volunteer On Wildlife Photography Projects With African Impact?

Here are some highlights from our Wildlife Photography Volunteer Projects.

Browse All Wildlife Photography Volunteering Programs

Dream of photographing lions, elephants, and giraffes? Our wildlife photography volunteer programs in Africa offer thrilling game drives and close wildlife encounters. Share your passion for photography and conservation while capturing incredible moments and contributing to important conservation efforts.

African Impact base photographers taking a photo of an elephant

Need Guidance? Start Here

Are you unsure where to start, or would prefer to speak with one of our team members? Just answer a few questions and we’ll find something suitable together.

Other Conservation Volunteer Project Focus Areas

These are the various areas within our Conservation volunteer projects you can specialise in.

Recent Wildlife Photography Reviews

Alex Taylor, 32, UKWildlife Photography & Conservation, Greater Kruger, South Africa

The photography course with African Impact exceeded all my expectations. It was well run and organised, catering to all skill levels. I came as just a hobbyist photographer and have developed my photography and editing so much in my time here. Outside of game drives our time was spent on assignments, editing photos and assisting the research group in the identification of animals through our photos and physical conservation. The accommodation was comfortable and tidy and included a community room to get your head down. All in all I would recommend this project to anyone with an interest in wildlife conservation who also wants to focus on their photography.

Heulwyn Roberts, 47, WalesWildlife Photography & Conservation, Greater Kruger, South Africa

I spent a fantastic 12 weeks in the Greater Kruger Area on the Wildlife Photography Internship. It was 12 glorious weeks of developing my wildlife photography skills while also learning about the animals themselves and the environment of the Greater Kruger Area. All the guides were knowledgeable, friendly and passed on their passion to each and every volunteer.

Ian Wright, 38, New MexicoWildlife Photography & Conservation, Greater Kruger, South Africa

I absolutely loved my time with African Impact. I genuinely believe in their mission, and think they are doing an incredible job carrying it out. The staff is extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and good at what they do. Their love and passion for wildlife is beyond inspiring. They also make sure to help your experience there to be as amazing as possible. I couldn't possibly say enough nice things about the wonderful people who run this amazing program. I absolutely would go back and spend more time here. I felt my time in the Greater Kruger with African Impact was absolutely life changing.

Caterina Vagge, 21, ItalyWildlife Photography & Conservation, Greater Kruger, South Africa

This program was a life-changing experience for me. I was able to get to see animals I always saw on screen, how they live and interact with other animals and nature in general. I met amazing people and amazing guides who shared their knowledge with us, teaching us everything about wild animals and environment. We had the weekends to do some amazing trips, like going to Kruger National park and much more. All the staff are amazing, they work all day to make this the best experience anyone could have.

Nektaria Kleopoulos, 24, USAWildlife Photography & Conservation, Greater Kruger, South Africa

Overall, it was a fantastic experience. The team was incredibly supportive and responsive to all our needs. Although the living situation involved sharing a room with five other girls, we managed it well. The wildlife was truly incredible, and I had the opportunity to witness the entire Big 5.

Wildlife Photography Volunteering FAQs

What kind of wildlife will I be photographing?

The Greater Kruger Area boasts incredible biodiversity, including the African Big 5 (lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo), plus diverse antelope, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, giraffe, zebra, and countless bird species. Your specific encounters will depend on the season, location, and luck, but rest assured, you’ll have ample opportunities to capture magnificent wildlife moments as a wildlife photography volunteer.

Will I be able to photograph the Big 5 at this project?

Whilst there is evidence of the African Big 5 (lion, elephant, leopard, rhino and buffalo) all around us, we cannot guarantee that you will see them all. Our project is based in a wilderness area where animals roam freely and do as they please, however, the Olifants River in front of our base attracts plenty of elephants, hippos, crocodiles and a multitude of bird species.

Do I need prior photography experience?

Absolutely not! Our wildlife photography program welcomes enthusiasts at all levels, especially those driven by a passion to learn and capture the magic of Africa’s wildlife. Our expert guides will provide comprehensive training and mentorship, equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to transform your passion into stunning images. So, whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting your journey, a true photography adventure awaits!

How does my photography contribute to conservation efforts?

Our wildlife photography volunteer program often partners with research institutions or conservation NGOs, which means your photos may be used for various purposes, such as monitoring animal populations, documenting specific behaviours, raising awareness about threats, or contributing to educational materials. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of conservation challenges while playing your part in protecting Africa’s precious wildlife.

Will I benefit from this course if I am an established photographer?

You may go through some of the basics of wildlife photography on this project, however, we offer unique skills development, such as macrophotography and astrological photography. If you consider yourself established and are looking to work on a specific project, you can view our Wildlife Photography Internship here.