NZPhotographer Issue 21, July 2019

WHAT ARE YOU SHOOTING WITH?
I currently have 2X Canon 30D and 1X Canon Rebel
but I plan to replace both of the 30D's as soon as
Canon release their new range. They have been
reliable but have done their time.
My lenses include the Canon 50mm, Canon 17–85mm,
Sigma 70–300mm, and a Tamron 150–600mm. I have
plans to add a Canon 70–200 to the future kit. I also
have a Manfrotto tripod and various studio equipment.
TELL US ABOUT THIS PHOTO
We stayed at Bayete lodge within the Manyoni
private game reserve in the Mkuze area of Kwa Zulu
Natal. Manyoni is not only a game reserve but also
specialises in conservation and re-introduction of
endangered species (Black Rhino, Wild Dog and
Cheetah). There are a few lodges within the reserve
focusing on giving visitors the wildlife experience.
The best time for wildlife photography at game
reserves is before sunrise or late afternoon as this is
the time that animals are either going down to rivers
for water or feeding/hunting so it was during an early
morning game drive (the sun had just come up) in the
Manyoni Game Reserve, that we came across this
Black Backed Jackal sitting in a pile of old rhino dung
on the side of the road.
Initially we stopped about 50m away and took photos
but as the jackal seemed relaxed, we decided to
slowly creep up to see how close we could get for
better shots. We were able to get alongside on the
opposite side of the road which is where this photo
was taken. This is unusual behaviour, because if you
approach jackals (or any wildlife) they will normally
run a short but safe distance away.
We were able to spend about 5 minutes taking photos
until the jackal decided that it had other things to do!
WHAT WAS HAPPENING BEHIND THE CAMERA
THAT WE CAN'T SEE?
We were about 8 people in the vehicle, including the
game ranger, all of us having cameras. In order for
photos to be taken this close up, there cannot be any
noise (even talking is done in a quiet whisper) nor any
sudden movements as it will scare the jackal away. It
may looked and act relaxed but its daily life depends
on being alert – It was continually looking at us and
the surrounding area for any danger.
WHAT CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE JACKAL?
The jackal is a very cunning animal that is related to
wolves and dogs. They are generally found in pairs,
but can also live solitary lives. They hunt small animals
and birds, but where large predators live (lion, leopard
etc.) they will salvage from these animals.
IS THIS YOUR FAVOURITE SHOT FROM YOUR TRIP?
The simple answer is probably no. Not because I don’t
love the shot, but because it’s difficult to pick a favourite.
BEHIND THE SHOT IS PROUDLY
SUPPORTED BY
Photos reflect memories of where I was at the time the
picture was taken and what it took to capture it. For
example, the time we sat in a vehicle for four hours in
36° heat and 90% humidity, waiting for exactly the right
shot of a leopard (published in NZP issue’s 2 & 20). Or
the series of photos of an impala antelope that had
just given birth. Or waiting patiently for the bright green
chameleon to cross the road in front of our vehicle,
until it climbed safely into the trees (NZP issue 2). And
the side-striped jackal which I have only ever been
able to photograph on one occasion. Photos that may
never be repeated or seen again.
So when I look at my photos, these memories flood
back and fan my desire to create even more.
WHAT WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS CAN YOU
SHARE WITH US?
For a wildlife photographer to consistently take good
photos, I think these 3 things will help:
1. You need to know your subject or be with
someone that can help and guide you with
information.
2. Have a plan – Decide what it is you are going
to photograph and what type of photo you
are looking for. With wildlife it is so easy to get
distracted and go off on a tangent. Be prepared
to 'hunt' for your subject and once you find it,
spend as much time as possible photographing it.
This may take months or even years.
3. Have patience, lots and lots of patience, and then
you may get your shot.
I always encourage others to join groups and/or clubs,
in this way you will pick up valuable knowledge from
those who have the same interest as you never stop
learning and improving as a photographer – I myself
am always looking to improve and learn from others.
WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU ONLINE?
www.gazza.photography
www.facebook.com/gary.reid.3705
albums.excio.io/profile/Gazza