Wildlife Photography in a Place Like No Other

At Watatunga, wildlife photography is a big part of life on the reserve. With more than 170 acres of naturalistic habitat and a huge variety of species to photograph, no two trips out with a camera are quite the same. For some, it’s the challenge of capturing a bird mid-display. For others, it’s the expression of a Sambar stag, the striking colours of an Eastern Mountain Bongo or simply getting close enough to notice the tiny details you might otherwise miss.

Our team spend countless hours among the wildlife, so we asked them about their favourite part of taking photos on the reserve and if they have a favourite species to photograph.

Ewan – Indian Sambar Stag – Assistant Reserve Ranger  

I work on the reserve as an Assistant Reserve Ranger, so I’m lucky enough to see our species every week, and I also take many of the photos featured across our online content.  

My favourite species to photograph is the Indian sambar, particularly the stag. I prefer focusing on an individual rather than a herd, honing in on specific features and expressions. There’s something I really like about their overall look, they’re simple but striking. Even though they have less tines, the stags carry an impressive set of antlers. I especially enjoy photographing sambar during the rut, ideally in open woodland. I don’t want heavy foliage blocking the view, but having trees in the background helps set the scene and adds atmosphere without distracting from the animal.  

Growing up, I liked tigers, so I think that’s why I’m also drawn to photographing the Eastern Mountain Bongos, their bold colouring has that same visual.  

Helen – Silver Pheasant – Tutored Photography Tour Guide  

When asked recently what species I best like to photograph, I felt it was an impossible task to decide. I am often asked this question, and my usual answer is, “the one my camera is pointed at now!” However, it is not so much a specific species I look for, but rather the opportunity to photograph action or interaction. These shots are also the hardest to pull off, which is probably why I like them so much, I do love a challenge.  

At Watatunga, every trip into the reserve is like delving into a favourite box of chocolates blindfolded; you never know what you will find, but you will love everything you encounter. In particular, I love to photograph birds in action. It is always a challenge, but incredibly rewarding when you get a shot you are pleased with. The reserve is home to some truly stunning birds, some of which are native too.  

I have picked out a shot of a Silver Pheasant captured during his display. This pheasant is always tricky to photograph due to the high contrast, a mix of stark black, bright white, and that amazing red face. What is also great to see when you zoom into the photo is that he is not actually a solid black; his dark feathers hold some wonderful blue and purple iridescent tones.  

My settings for this shot: Canon R5 Mk II | RF 100-500mm @ 270mm | 1/1250 sec | f/5.6 | -⅔ EV | ISO 200 | Distance: 7.71m  

Andy – Kafue Flats Lechwe – Private Tour Guide  

It’s very difficult to choose one particular favourite animal to photograph. However, on the wildlife reserve it may just be the Kafue Flats Lechwe. You cannot fail to get a great photo. Not only do they remain still and pose, but they also have the longest eyelashes and perfectly heart-shaped noses, which can’t be seen from a distance. They are such beautiful antelopes!

Mark – Visayan Spotted Deer – Volunteer  

I have photographed a wide variety of wonderful animals at Watatunga. Whether it has been using my Google Pixel 8 phone or my Canon EOS 20000D SLR with a Sigma 150-600mm lens, both have given me fantastic results. With no obstructions in your way, the ability to get so close to the animals makes wildlife photography here a truly unique experience. I have managed to get some brilliant photos of my favourite animals, including Eastern Mountain Bongos and Visayan Spotted Deer. Watatunga offers such a unique photography opportunity.  

Ready to join us in Norfolk?  

If reading about our team’s favourite photography subjects has you reaching for your camera, there are several ways to experience wildlife photography at Watatunga. There is a photography experience to suit different interests and experience levels:  

Guided Photography Tour  

Our Guided Photography Tour is a great option if you want the freedom to focus on your photography whilst exploring the reserve with one of our experienced guides. There is no photography tutor on this experience, so you can concentrate on your own style and technique whilst your guide helps you navigate the reserve, find wildlife and get into position for those all-important shots.  

Tutored Photography Tour with Helen Black  

If you’re looking to develop your photography skills as well as capture some fantastic wildlife images, our Tutored Photography Tour with Helen Black offers the chance to learn alongside an experienced wildlife photographer. Helen can help with everything from camera settings and composition to making the most of changing light and capturing those more challenging moments of action and interaction.  

Dawn Photography Tours  

For something a little different, our Dawn Photography Tours take you into the reserve as the day is beginning. The early morning light can create beautiful conditions for photography, while the quieter atmosphere gives you the chance to watch the reserve waking up and see what wildlife is out and about. These are exclusive to winter only and book quite quickly so we recommend booking in advance.  

Explore our wildlife Photography Experiences or read our Tripadvisor Reviews for more personal perspectives of visiting the reserve.