Namibia Holiday & Travel - Tourist Information - Tips for photographers
The best time to take photographs in Namibia is in the early mornings (before ten) and in the afternoons after four or five. The ‘magic hour’ is between five and six.
Bring enough film, and if you use digital equipment, at least one extra battery, and a charger. Normal film is freely available in towns and rest camps. The same principle applies to batteries. Keep in mind that spare batteries also need regular replacing. It is advisable to keep film in a cool box, especially when visiting during the summer.
Since lighting conditions in Namibia are harsh, it is advisable to have all your lenses fitted with UV or haze filters.
A major problem in Namibia is dust, and in the desert where the wind often blows, flying sand. Equipment should be covered when not in use, and cleaned after a day’s shooting, for which you need a blower brush, cleaning fluid and lens tissue. Dust, flying sand and grass should be avoided especially when changing lenses on a digital camera.
In most cases telephoto lenses are essential to obtain good wildlife shots, especially of birds. For the best results, these lenses need to be kept steady, either by using a tripod, or if in a vehicle, with a beanbag or window support.
When photographing in a game reserve such as the Etosha National Park, a good policy is to spend several hours at a waterhole, and wait!
Outlets in the larger centres such as Windhoek and Swakopmund have the latest requirements and information on digital camera equipment.
