It is not uncommon for reality to not match up with our imagination. We might think about China, but beyond the Great Wall, that is where our imagining might end. In thinking about South America, we might picture a place like Machu Picchu and that is all. In thinking of Russia, we might think of vodka and snow even though there is so much more to it.
This is normal, but it’s also a little ridiculous – but it is nothing compared to how most people view Africa.
For the most part, when people imagine African landscape photography, they imagine a Savannah that includes acacia trees, elephants and giraffes. This is true but landscapes in Africa are much more varied than this.
Remember that Africa is a continent that is three times bigger than Europe. When you consider how geographically diverse Europe can be, it should be no surprise that landscapes in Africa are full of surprises.
From its exquisite coastlines to its deserts, mountain regions, rivers and canyons, there is much choice when it comes to South African landscape photography.
In fact, if you are searching for photography locations Cape Town, you will find that even this one city could keep you busy for a long time.
So, in answer to your photography locations Cape Town search, this article will open your eyes to the opportunities for both those wishing to shoot in the Mother City or African landscapes in general.
Once you are done finding out about South African landscape photography, why not check out other global destinations for landscape photography.
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What is a Landscape?
Before we examine African landscape photography, let’s consider a few general principles about landscape photography that every photographer should know. A definition might seem obvious in that the photographer simply shoots landscapes, but in reality, it is more complex than that.
The challenge lies in how to define a landscape. For many, it is a term to describe remote locations or untouched parts of the world that are devoid of man-made elements. For most of us, landscape means a natural and breathtaking environment where the only human present is the photographer.
The term landscape seems to support an idea that is detached and frozen in time – something visual to be admired, yet without offering engagement.
Most people tend to think this way about South African landscape photography and African landscapes in general.
It’s not uncommon to immediately think about elephants or lions and forget that the beautiful landscapes in Africa are home to millions of people too.
If you’re looking for landscape photography tips be sure to not make this mistake.
In this series, you could find answers to everything from landscape photography in Asia to answers regarding your photography locations Cape Town search.
Redefining the Word Landscape
The word landscape has always suggested an integration of nature and humanity. Land is not simply a place, but originally it was somewhere where someone belongs.
When thought of like this, a landscape is no longer a distant space without humans, but rather something that could encompass any kind of environment.
So, like Kilimanjaro or other landscapes in Africa, there are also brilliant cityscapes and seascapes too. A search for photography locations Cape Town will demonstrate this well.
When it comes to African landscape photography or South African landscape photography, there are many cities, rivers, mountains and oceans for you to create your art.
Check out our article on tips for finding landscape photography options in Europe.
What Will You Need for Shooting Landscapes in Africa?
If landscape images can be so diverse, what is it that makes a good image and what is needed to achieve this?
To answer the first part of the question, in many ways a successful landscape image, like all other art, lies in the eye of the beholder. But this does not mean that photography skills and techniques are not needed. If you are searching photography locations Cape Town, you will know that one image of Table Mountain does not necessarily equal another.
For beautiful images to be truly professional and long-lasting, a point-and-shoot approach is not enough. As you work on your craft you will find that there is a lot to learn. By this we mean mastering aspects like depth of field, shutter speed, white balance and much more. It will mean becoming familiar with different lenses and knowing which ones are best suited to the types of landscapes in Africa that you love to shoot.
Of course, you’ll also need to work on composition and know where the best African landscapes are.
Remember that Africa is a big continent so search by country. For instance, if you want to focus on South African landscape photography, don’t simply search ‘wilderness places in Africa,’ otherwise it could take you forever to do your research.
Find out about taking landscape photographs in South America.
Top Destinations for African Landscape Photography
There is so much beauty and diversity in African landscapes.
If you are wondering where to start in capturing them, the best way to do this is to gain some photography theory and then get out there and just do it.
If Africa is calling you and your camera lens, then here are some of the best places to be inspired.
As mentioned, Africa is a vast continent and every nook and cranny of its beauty could never be covered in one article. Having said this, here are a few tips to get you started, it all depends on whether or not you want to add to the many shots of an African savannah or if you want to try something new.
Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda
In Uganda, the Rwenzori Range boasts one of the greatest mountain ranges in Africa. This example is a good reminder that Africa is not all dryness and heat, but in Rwenzori there are even glaciers.
Furthermore, as a region that is largely unvisited, it offers many unique opportunities for photographers.
Serengeti, Tanzania
Ah, the famous Serengeti. Here, endless savannahs with dotted acacia trees and wildebeest have been the subject of many famous photographs.
As one of the most distinctive and wonderful places on earth, opportunities and inspiration abound.
While you are there, you could check out the beautiful Olduvai Gorge, a place considered by many as the birthplace of humanity.
Sahara and the Ergs
Where do you go to get some of the most gorgeous pictures of the Sahara?
Given that this desert is almost the same size of China, options are unlimited!
One recommended place to begin would be the Ergs found in southern Morocco. Whilst these are not technically in the Sahara, they are impressive dunes that come from the nearby desert.
Namibia’s Fish River Canyon
Not dissimilar to the red, rocky landscapes of Utah or Arizona, Namibia’s Fish River Canyon which has cut a huge trench through the earth is mesmerising.
Atlas Mountains
In the Maghreb, which runs through Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria, you will find a range of mountains that stretches for two and half thousand miles and divides the coast of North Africa from the Sahara.
If you are looking for unbeaten tracks that have been overlooked by other photographers, these regions which have snow, lush green valleys and wildlife are truly unique.
South Africa’s Garden Route
Along Africa’s south western tip lies an incredibly beautiful stretch of coast known for its verdant vegetation. Known as the Garden Route, it is home to the Tsitsikamma forest and mountains which appear to fall into the sea and make for breathtaking landscapes.
Simien Mountains, Ethiopia
In amongst the vast greenness of Ethiopia, you will find the towering Simien Mountains. With its rugged peaks and jagged spikes, this range offers many viewpoints and wonderful landscapes.
Coastal Mozambique
While it has suffered its share of natural disasters, the prevailing beauty of Mozambique offers unique opportunities for intrepid landscape photographers. There are dispersed islands, gorgeous beaches and unique, historical architecture. If you find yourself in this tropical country, be sure to check out Bazaruto Island.
Chad
While one of the poorest countries in the world, Chad, which is landlocked in the middle of the Sahara, is exceptionally beautiful. If you travel from the Tibesti Mountains in the north to the Manda National Park further south, you are guaranteed to see some of the most beautiful landscapes on earth.
Now, do the beautiful landscapes of the USA interest you?
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