The Delaney Journal
Black & White Wildlife Photography from the Heart of Africa
Unlock the Secrets of Safari Photography: The Art of Seeing
Black maned Lion
Step into the Wild – Your African Safari Awaits
As I reflect on my journey as a wildlife photographer, especially when I review my images, a few truths emerge. In the beginning, my shots mostly featured either action or close-up portraits. While exciting, they often lacked deeper storytelling. The truth is, editing was still a challenge for me then—just as capturing those photographs had been. But what I've realized is that true wildlife photography goes beyond action and close-ups. It's about *seeing*—and there is no better place to refine that skill than on an African photographic safari.
zebra stallions fighting over the rights to a mare
When you're out in the wild, camera in hand, it's easy to fall into the rhythm of snapping action shots—thanks to advanced autofocus systems—or zooming in for detailed portraits. But as exciting as that can be, where's the art in pointing and shooting? When we take guests on safari, we teach them that great wildlife photography requires more than simply capturing a moment. It demands patience, creativity, and an eye for composition. It’s about crafting an image, not just taking a picture.
Serendipity
Safari Like Never Before – Adventure, Explore, Capture!
Wildlife photography is one of the most challenging forms of photography, and safaris are the perfect setting to hone this skill. On safari, you never know what you’ll encounter—the timing, place, light, and subject are all unpredictable. While action shots near a waterhole can be thrilling, the true magic happens when you’re quiet, observing, and composing an image that tells a story. And that’s what we teach on our safaris.
On safari in the Mara North and we happened upon a magnificent Tusker.. a fleeting but unforgettable encounter
Mastering Composition on Safari
Every great photograph begins with a solid composition. While guides like the rule of thirds can help, it’s your personal *vision* that will make your images unique and captivating. Safaris are an opportunity to develop this vision—to not just see, but to *really see*.
For instance, one of the composition techniques I love teaching on safari is using negative space. Imagine the vast open plains of Amboseli or Mara, where a lone elephant stands in the distance, framed by endless skies. Negative space allows your subject to breathe, creating a sense of calm and highlighting the majestic beauty of Africa’s wildlife.
Old Tusker | Amboseli
We also explore the magic of light and texture. Early morning or late afternoon safaris are ideal for this, as the golden light casts long shadows and enhances the textures of an elephant’s wrinkled skin or the gentle curves of a sand dune. These are moments when we help guests experiment with patterns in the landscape, using clouds, trees, and distant mountains to enhance their compositions.
Camelopard
Don’t Just Dream It – Live It! Book Your Safari Today!
Seeing Beyond the Obvious
On safari, there’s a temptation to capture the big, dramatic moments—the chase, the kill, the perfect portrait. While those moments are special, true photographers learn to see beyond the obvious. Our goal is to help you refine your ability to anticipate moments, to capture the quiet, intimate interactions—whether it’s a lion cub nestled under its mother in the pouring rain or a zebra foal peeking over its shoulder.
Lioness and Cubs in the Rain | Masai Mara
Ruka and Rafiki
Ready for the Wild? Reserve Your Safari Experience Now!
During our safaris, we encourage guests to explore different angles and viewpoints. Whether you're lying low to capture the striking silhouette of cheetahs on a mound in the savannah or aiming high to showcase the grandeur of a marula tree with a leopard gracefully walking along its branches, every shift in perspective reveals a new story. It’s these creative viewpoints that transform a standard shot into one that truly resonates emotionally with your audience.
Leopard On the Prowl
Discover the Heart of Africa with Our Expert Guides!
Zebra | Looking Back
Secure Your Safari Spot Today – Adventure is Calling!
Creating with Rhythm and Symmetry
Africa is full of patterns, from the stripes of a zebra to the rhythms of an elephant herd walking in unison. On our safaris, we teach you how to use natural symmetry and rhythm to create engaging images. For example, imagine photographing a line of elephants, slowly marching towards you and you wait for that one magical moment where the lead bull extends his ears to create the perfect shot. It’s not just about snapping a shot—it’s about seeing the balance and rhythm in the scene and waiting for the right moment to capture it..
March of the Bull Elephants
Ready for the Wild? Reserve Your Safari Experience Now!
Symmetry, rhythm, and balance aren’t just photographic techniques—they’re ways of telling stories. They help you build a deeper connection with the wildlife you're photographing and with the viewer of your images
Giraffes | Life on The Edge
The Art of Patience
One of the most valuable lessons we emphasize during our safaris is the importance of patience. The most captivating wildlife photographs often come from waiting—waiting for the perfect light, the right moment, and that unforgettable interaction. Patience allows you to connect deeply with the environment, making space for truly magical encounters.
Take, for example, the story behind my photograph "The Stare." During a recent photo safari in Kenya’s Lake Nakuru, my client and I stumbled upon a lion pride resting by a dirt road. While we initially hoped for the iconic shot of lions perched in a Fever tree, we chose to wait, despite the fading daylight and no guarantees. Hours passed as the lions slept, but just as the sun began to set and raindrops started to fall, a young male lion stirred. He slowly rose, turned, and locked eyes with my lens. It was a brief yet powerful moment—his gaze full of intensity, a fleeting connection that I was fortunate to capture before he rejoined the pride.
The stare
Where Every Safari Tells a Story – Make Yours Unforgettable!
This experience reflects what our safaris are truly about giving you the time and opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, patiently waiting for those rare, breathtaking moments. It's in these moments that you can create images not only of technical excellence but of deep emotional resonance.
Bonds Of Love
Don’t Just Dream It – Live It! Book Your Safari Today!
Your Vision
Ultimately, what we offer on our safaris with Delaney & Siggesson is not just a chance to photograph wildlife, but a chance to develop your vision as a photographer. The ‘art of seeing’ goes beyond technique—it’s about capturing the emotion of the moment, the spirit of the wild. We help you find that balance between technical precision and artistic expression, ensuring that your photographs tell the story of your unique journey through Africa’s wilderness.
If you want to take your wildlife photography to the next level, join us on safari. Let us guide you through the breathtaking landscapes of Africa, teaching you not just how to photograph its wildlife, but how to “see” it.
Because as one of my favourite songs says, “You don’t need eyes to see…you need vision.”
Safari Video at waterhole Ol Pejta consevancy
On Safari in Kenya: Photographing Wildlife Moments
"Explore Kenya's wildlife through the lens of a safari photographer, Peter Delaney. From lions to giraffes, follow our journey and photography tips in the heart of Africa."
On Safari in Kenya
Photographing Wildlife Moments
Awakening to the Call of the Wild
Slowly awakening, I find myself in darkness, the wind gently stirring the fabric of the tent. Despite the chill in the air, I'm snug beneath a thick duvet, with a comforting warmth emanating from the hot water bottle at my feet. Suddenly, the sound that stirred me repeats—a lion's roar pierces the night, accompanied by the eerie cackling of hyenas and the distinct bark of jackals.
At that moment, I'm momentarily disoriented, until the realization hits me—I'm in Kenya, on safari. I drift back into sleep, attempting to suppress my bubbling excitement for the adventures that await in the days and nights ahead. I awake again, this time to the familiar chime of my iPhone alarm.
Lion Stare
Raw Beauty of the Wild: African Wildlife Prints for Your Home
Safari Preparation: Essentials for Wildlife Photography
The air is crisp as I slip into my robe and flick on the kettle. Being a coffee addict, I've brought some freshly roasted beans from South Africa and my trusty AeroPress. A steaming hot shower invigorates me, and I emerge ready for the day ahead, clad in jeans, a T-shirt, and a snug fleece—always bringing two on safari, one for chilly mornings in the vehicle and one for evenings by the campfire. With my travel mug brimming with aromatic coffee, I set off to rendezvous with my clients. Today marks the beginning of their photography safari with me.
"Sons Of Rosetta" Ruka And Rafiki
Feel the Spirit of the Savanna: Fine Art for Your Walls
As dawn breaks, a gentle pink hue tints the horizon while our 4x4 rumbles along the rugged terrain. My driver, Steve, punctuates the journey with his customary humour, quipping about the "African Massage" as we bounce along. His joke elicits a smile from me and laughter from my guests.
Our ride, a 4x4 Land Cruiser Troopy, is the standard vehicle used by most safari operators—a reliable workhorse with ample space. Ours has been modified for photographers, featuring wide-open windows and removed centre seats to allow for optimal shooting positions. The vehicle's roof can be opened, providing elevated angles for capturing subjects, particularly wildlife in trees or hidden in tall grass. While Steve focuses on navigating the terrain, I keep my eyes peeled for potential photography subjects.
The Art of Photographing African Wildlife
The chilly wind nips at my face, but I'm grateful for my trusty beanie, which keeps my head warm. It doesn't take long before our first wildlife encounter—a pride of lions consisting of five females and a young male sporting the beginnings of a mane.
As we approach, maintaining a respectful distance of about 20 meters, I adhere to my philosophy of not crowding our subjects. Getting too close can trigger a fight-or-flight response, so I prefer a slow, cautious approach from a distance. Alternatively, if the animals are on the move, I opt to let them come to us. This approach ensures the wildlife remains relaxed, allowing us to photograph their natural behaviour.
Lion | Serengeti Boys | Fine Art Prints
Bring the Wild Home: Majestic African Wildlife on Your Walls
Capturing Moments: From Lions to Giraffes
As we approached the lions, I noticed the wide-eyed wonder on my client's face, reminiscent of my own first safari experience. The thrill, the reverence, and the tingling anticipation as you come face to face with a killing machine. Whenever I work with my clients, my first goal is to calm them down and reduce their over-excitement. After all, capturing a sharp photograph requires a steady hand and a calm mind. With a few deep breaths and reassuring words, the familiar click of shutters fills the air.
African Buffalos | Widow makers | Canvas Prints
From the Heart of Africa: Captivating Wildlife Prints for Your Home
As we rounded a corner that morning, one of my beloved trees came into view. Bathed in the soft morning light, with remnants of storm clouds lingering overhead, the Acacia tree stood majestically. However, what truly ignited my photography juices was the sight of tall figures in the distance, gracefully traversing through the long grasses of the savannah. Giraffe! The five Masai giraffes were still a few kilometres away, but I knew their destination—a tree close by. Deciding to position our 4x4 at a distance from the tree, I calculated that we'd need a 200mm focal length lens to capture the composition I envisioned. However, I also instructed my client to have his second camera ready with a wider lens as I had another composition in mind.
Serendipity | Giraffes | Canvas Prints
Safari Splendor: Breathtaking Art for Every Room
With nearly two decades of experience photographing African wildlife, I've become intimately acquainted with animal behaviour. This familiarity often aids me in capturing extraordinary moments. Anticipating the route of the giraffes and predicted that the lead giraffe would stop to assess us before continuing on his way. What, I hadn't anticipated was the near-perfect symmetry that unfolded as the other giraffes continued their graceful stride in the background.
“Camelopard" | Giraffe | Large Canvas Prints
Witness the Wild: African Wildlife Art to Inspire and Delight
My client was thrilled with the resulting composition, and so was I. As the giraffes proceeded toward the tree, it was the last giraffe that provided us with the quintessential African scene. Stretching its neck to reach the last dangling leaves, amidst the lush grass and billowing white clouds, a stunning photographic print was born.
African Buffalo | Large Canvas Prints
Raw Beauty of the Wild: African Wildlife Prints for Your Home
Breakfast in the Mara: A Photographer's Ritual
As my tummy rumbled, signalling perfect timing for breakfast, we made our way to my cherished tree. While my guests stretched their legs, Steve and I swiftly set up a table and chairs, arranging a delightful spread that the lodge had prepared for us: coffee, croissants, muffins, cheeses, and meats. It was a scrumptious breakfast, enjoyed amidst the expansive beauty of the Mara.
Fever Tree Leopard | Wildlife Fine Art Prints
Wild Elegance: Transform Your Home with Powerful Wildlife Prints
Unforgettable Encounters: Big Cats, Super Tuskers, and More
Over the next few days, we were treated to some of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters imaginable—leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, buffalo; one memorable morning, we managed to tick off the entire Big Five.
Ol Pejeta|Black Rhinos| Fine Art Prints
ourney to Africa: Stunning Wall Art for Your Space
Ol Pejeta | White Rhino Bull | Acrylic Glass Prints
Captivating Wildlife Prints for Your Home
Kambaku | Old Bull Elephant | Fine Art Prints
Stunning Wall Art for Your Space
One of the most unforgettable highlights for my clients occurred in Amboseli, where we spent an entire morning in the company of one of the last remaining super tuskers in East Africa. It was a magical bucket-list moment to capture and spend time with this gentle pachyderm against the backdrop of the majestic snow-covered Kilimanjaro. But that's a story for another time.
