NelspruitMpumalanga’s Wildlife Photographers | Richard de Gouveia – Nelspruit https://showme.co.za/nelspruit Nelspruit, South Africa for all your local and tourism information; from accommodation to events, entertainment, attractions and news - ShowMe Nelspruit | T Feed Tue, 26 Mar 2024 08:45:05 +0000 hourly 1 https://showme.co.za/nelspruit/?p=46794 Mpumalanga’s Wildlife Photographers | Richard de Gouveia https://showme.co.za/nelspruit/lifestyle/photography/mpumalangas-wildlife-photographers-richard-de-gouveia/ Tue, 30 Jun 2015 09:39:58 +0000 Seven years ago Richard de Gouveia swapped his corporate job for a life in the bush to follow his childhood dream of becoming...]]> Seven years ago Richard de Gouveia swapped his corporate job for a life in the bush to follow his childhood dream of becoming a guide. He hasn’t looked back and is now also a Nikon Ambassador, as his passion for the bush is only matched by his loves of photography and of course his wife.

As a guide, Richard has been privileged to work in some of the most prestigious lodges in Kruger National Park as well as Sabi Sands. This has given him unparalleled access to South Africa’s most iconic wildlife and breath taking landscapes, which he has captured with his own unique style and flare.

Through photography, Richard’s passion for nature has extended past simply viewing animals and is now about exploring the connections between the living and non-living elements of the bush.

What got you hooked on wildlife photography?

The idea of capturing a rare moment of nature is one of the most fulfilling things I have experienced. It drives me to go back and record the next amazing scene and make the next photo. This coupled with the ability to share these images with people around the world and give them a glimpse into the magic of nature is a privilege.

What equipment do you use?

I am a Nikon fan and I have two different bodies that I take out along with a range of lenses. My favourite combo would have to be my Nikon D3s and Nikkor 200-400 f4 lens.

The reason I use Nikon is for its ability to shoot great pictures in low light. So when most people are packing their cameras away, I am just getting ready to shoot.

Can you share some of your favourite wildlife photos with us?

‘Elephant Storm’ really captures the moment and the emotion of the moment, which is why I love this image. The elephant is showing how big he is while the storm rages behind him. You get very few opportunities when the subject and the background work so well together, giving the shot so much emotion and allowing you to tell a story with a photo.

Elephant Storm

Elephant Storm by Richard de Gouveia

The composition of the ‘Rhino in the Ash’, as well as it being in black and white, makes this image work. I love the fact that you can see the ash on the rhino and also it’s a reminder of the plight these amazing creatures are currently facing.

Rhino Ash

Rhino Ash by Richard de Gouveia.

‘Lazing Leopard’ is the archetypal leopard on a tree shot, but the setting makes it really special. It almost looks unreal, thanks to a storm creating a magical backdrop and adding emotion to the photo. This is one of my favourite shots thanks to the beautiful scenic backdrop and of course the iconic pose of the leopard.

Lazing Leopard

Lazing Leopard by Richard de Gouveia.

The idea of capturing a rare moment of nature is one of the most fulfilling things I have experienced.

What is the best and worst bit about wildlife photography?

The best part of wildlife photography is becoming immersed in nature while you wait for the perfect opportunity to photograph something and the worst part… missing the opportunity when it comes!

Have there been any stand out moments?

There have been so many!

One that stands out was a night shoot with guests where we were photographing the stars. To capture a star trail you need to keep the shutter open for about 45 minutes so that you can see the movement of the stars. While we enjoyed coffee in the pitch dark, stars twinkling overhead, waiting for the time to go, we suddenly heard two male lions start to roar. Each time they roared we could tell they were getting a little closer. So it wasn’t long before we brave photographers had climbed back into the vehicle!  We did however leave our cameras where they were and refused to switch on our torches to check where the lions were, as we didn’t want to ruin our photos!

What are your top 5 wildlife photography tips?
  1. Be patient!
  2. Practice lots and get to know your camera, because wildlife rarely gives you a second chance.
  3. Be prepared for anything.
  4. Get to know your subject, learn about the animal behaviour so you can be one step ahead and know what to expect.
  5. Lastly, photography is an art. You will learn lots from others, but try and make it your own.
Is there a wildlife shot that you are still on the lookout for?

Too many to sum up here! One picture I have in mind involves a leopard in a tree silhouetted against the stars.

What do you do when you aren’t taking photos?

Look at photos, edit photos… no! I spend time with friends and family. Being a photographer and a guide takes you away from a lot of the special people in your life. So when I get the chance, I try and spend time with them.

Finally, do you have an advice for a budding wildlife photographer?

Enjoy it! Enjoy the time in the bush, learn as much as you can, regard every moment as a privilege and lastly share your knowledge, because others will share theirs with you and you can learn together.

 

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