Knowing the fundamentals of your camera and shooting at the right time of day can help yield some professional-level images.

Sipps Maswanganyi grew up in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, a vast wilderness area largely untouched by humans in South Africa. There, he said, “a lion’s roar, a leopard’s calls, and the trumpets of hyenas and elephants were the only music we could dance to.”

Growing up in that environment gave Maswanganyi a unique appreciation for the wildlife. By the time he was four years old, he’d cultivated a friendship with a male lion who lived on the other side of his fence, often lying on the ground so that he could feel the reverberations of the lion’s powerful roar. After he finished college, Maswanganyi decided to become what he calls “nature’s best representative” as a safari guide and wildlife photographer.

For 20 years, Maswanganyi has been guiding in big five wilderness areas, showing his guests where to find animals, including cheetahs, lions, giraffes, and elephants, while also teaching them how best to photograph them. (He’s currently the head safari guide at Cheetah Plains, an entirely solar-powered lodge in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve in South Africa.)

We asked him for his advice on capturing the best images of wildlife—here are his top tips.

Know your camera

Before departing for a safari trip or wildlife-filled getaway, read your camera manual front to back, and ensure you can manage it in manual settings, not auto. Spend time learning about your camera’s buttons and all their functions. New camera models are programmed with more technology to work in your favor, but it’s important that you know the basics.

Learn about the “light triangle” (ISO, aperture, and shutter) and use manual mode to find out how to balance these. On safari, you will need to be able to master these to achieve clarity and exposure while controlling the depth of field. While you can’t control your environment, you can control the output, so learn to adapt these three controls, and you’re in good shape. If you’re entirely new to photography, take a beginner’s photography course or speak to your local camera shop before your safari, as shooting in manual can be challenging.

If you’re not quite ready to shoot manually, your DSLR camera allows you to shoot in program, aperture, or shutter modes, which are semi-automatic and, when used correctly, can also yield a good result. But don’t let manual mode scare you. With some practice, you’ll know how to control the settings for that special shot that is entirely yours.

Get as much practice shooting as possible before your trip. Take your camera out and shoot whatever and wherever to get comfortable with all its settings and the various elements your environment can present, such as harsh or scant lighting.

Get the right camera and lenses

Use a good-quality, full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera (Maswanganyi uses a Nikon D850). If it’s your first safari, and you’re not ready to invest in or decide on one camera, renting your equipment might be better for you. (Companies like Lensrentals and BorrowLenses have solid lending programs.) A full-frame photo sensor—a digital sensor replicating the size of classic 35mm cameras, as opposed to a crop sensor that produces a tighter field of view—is handy for low-light conditions and night shots, so you won’t need to worry when capturing those leopards and lions after dark.

Also, bring a handful of lenses to pair with your camera. A good-quality fish-eye lens, macro lens (for taking photos very close to a small subject), 70–200mm f/2.8 lens (for shooting midrange subjects), and a good zoom lens 200–500mm with at least f/4 (the aperture, which affects the depth of field and amount of light entering the camera) and higher will do.

Get up and out early

The best animal sightings and wildlife shots happen early in the morning, which is why game drives typically start before sunrise. The night before, make sure to have all your camera gear ready to go and charging. Don’t forget your memory card or extra battery pack if your camera comes with one.

Shooting before sunrise offers the bonus of photographing wildlife backlit against the rising sun, which adds depth to your photos. This is the opportunity to capture images that benefit from golden light, side lighting, and direct light. You can gradually experience the effect of blue light, yellow light, golden light, and other types of changing lighting while sitting in the same position, hitting the same subject but getting different results.

Look for the eyes

When you are eye-to-eye with an animal, your excitement level will rise. It’s an experience you will never forget and is even better when you can capture the wildlife looking directly at you. Taking a portrait of an animal is like taking a portrait of a person. Focus on the eyes.

Be aware of your lighting and where it is coming from. The direction of the light will determine if you’ll need to adjust your settings or ask your guide to reposition your vehicle for the best angle.

Keep your camera focused on the eyes. If your camera has focus tracking or face detection, then it will be easier to focus. You want the eyes to be sharp, for they tell a story and bring your photo to life.

Shoot low, not high

When it comes to angles, low is always better (low to the ground, at an upward angle). Angles can make an animal look bigger and more impressive, enabling a greater silhouette. Considering bringing a monopod (essentially a single-leg tripod)—you can mount your camera to it and lower it to the ground from your seat in the safari vehicle to achieve a leveled shot.

Thanks to the celebrity airport looks and vacation looks, we have all realized the importance of looking fabulous while travelling. In today’s times, where shooting Insta reels and taking selfies is a must-do thing to keep everyone posted about your travel diaries, it is essential to showcase your stylish side!

From what type of fabrics to choose to accessories to flaunt, your travel outfits should be a fine blend of comfort and style! Here are 5 styling tips to ace your travel fashion game:

Pay Attention to the Fabric

Fabric plays a prime role in making sure you look your best and feel comfortable while travelling. Choose outfits that are made of lighter and breathable fabrics such as organic cotton, linen, viscose rayon, Tencel, etc. Easy-to-carry ensemble choices like plain or printed tees, denim shirts, jeans, and shorts make a practical choice for your travel wear. Also, ideally, wear clothes that are wrinkle-resistant which will ensure that you look stylish and presentable even after a long journey!

Layer Your Clothes

When travelling by plane, train, or taking a boat ride, you will instant change in temperature. To beat the cold, you can layer your chosen outfits with layered pieces of clothing like a sweatshirt, sweater, shrug, jacket, and more. Select the layering outfits depending upon the current temperature of your city or the chosen destination for vacay. For example, opt for lighter fabrics like modal when don’t require a warmer jacket or sweater. Plus, you can always remove the same when it feels a little too warm.

Pick Outfits With Pockets

It is better to carry outfits with pockets that come in handy for carrying your phone, money, handkerchief, and more. Pockets add a distinct and fun addition or detailing to clothes. Plain or printed tops, hoodies, jackets, jeans or shorts with pockets look attractive and give a stunning look.

Pick Versatile Outfits

Wear or carry some versatile outfits like a jumpsuit, monochrome co-ord set, kaftan, or jacket with you. Co-ord sets and jumpsuits make a fuss-free and chic option to keep it stylish on vacation. Also, a basic tee and jeans clothing combo can be layered with a shrug or jacket.

Accessorize it Well

Carry essential accessories like a lovely scarf or hat to upscale your travel styling game right. A printed scarf can make a lovely addition to a plain shirt or top. Additionally, you can carry a mini handbag or fanny pack bag to carry essentials like passports, tickets, money, and more.

Also, you can accessorize the chosen outfits with minimal yet striking jewellery pieces like stud earrings, think chains with a pendant, or bead bracelets. Keep accessories to a minimum yet interesting!

“Unlock the secrets of budget travel and learn how to stretch your dollars while exploring incredible destinations around the globe.”

Traveling is a wonderful experience that allows us to explore new destinations, immerse ourselves in different cultures, and create lasting memories. However, the cost of travel can sometimes be a barrier. The good news is that with careful planning and smart choices, you can embark on an exciting journey without breaking the bank. In this article, we present ten essential tips for traveling on a budget, helping you make the most of your adventures while keeping your wallet happy.

1. Research and Plan Ahead

Before setting off on your journey, invest time in thorough research. Look for budget-friendly destinations, affordable accommodations, and cheap flight options. Planning ahead allows you to take advantage of early booking discounts, compare prices, and find the best deals available.

2. Set a Realistic Budget

Create a detailed budget that includes all anticipated expenses, such as transportation, accommodation, meals, activities, and souvenirs. Be realistic about your spending limits and stick to your budget throughout your trip. Tracking your expenses will help you make informed decisions and avoid overspending.

3. Travel Off-Peak

Consider traveling during off-peak seasons when prices for flights and accommodations are generally lower. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also enjoy fewer crowds and a more authentic experience of your chosen destination.

4. Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodation

Explore a range of accommodation options, such as hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals, instead of luxury hotels. Websites and apps like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Hostel world offer affordable alternatives that provide comfort and local experiences at a fraction of the cost.

5. Be Flexible with Transportation

Flexibility with transportation can lead to significant savings. Compare different modes of transport, including buses, trains, and budget airlines, to find the most cost-effective option. Consider overnight journeys, as they can save you money on both transportation and accommodation.

6. Eat Like a Local

Sampling local cuisine is an essential part of any travel experience, but dining out for every meal can add up quickly. To save money, opt for local markets, street food stalls, and affordable eateries where locals dine. This not only helps you stay within your budget but also allows you to savor authentic flavors.

7. Embrace Free and Low-Cost Activities

Research and discover free or low-cost activities and attractions at your destination. Many museums, parks, and cultural sites offer discounted or even free entry on specific days or times. Join walking tours or explore the city on foot to soak up the atmosphere without spending a fortune.

8. Pack Lightly

Traveling with only a carry-on bag not only saves you money on baggage fees but also provides flexibility and convenience during your trip. Pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched, and only bring essential items to avoid unnecessary weight and hassle.

9. Use Travel Rewards and Discounts

Take advantage of travel rewards programs, credit card perks, and loyalty programs to earn points or discounts on flights, accommodations, or activities. Sign up for newsletters and follow social media accounts of airlines and travel companies to stay informed about special offers and promotions.

10. Connect with Locals

Immerse yourself in the local culture by connecting with locals. They can offer valuable insights, recommend hidden gems, and share cost-saving tips specific to their region. Engaging with locals can also lead to authentic and unique experiences that are often free or low-cost.

By implementing these ten essential tips for traveling on a budget, you can embark on unforgettable adventures while keeping your expenses in check. Remember, it’s not about how much you spend, but the enriching experiences and memories you create along the way. Happy travels!

Everybody loves going on holiday, where days are filled with sightseeing and fun excursions

One of the last things anyone wants to worry about while in vacay mode is bad hair days, especially when you need your tresses looking its best for all those vacation pics you plan on taking and posting on your social media feeds.

But, in the midst of all that travel excitement, it’s not uncommon to overlook your usual hair care routine (don’t worry, we’ve all been there, hehe), leading to unwanted situations like dealing with greasy or lacklustre hair.

1. Protect your hair from the sun

Did you know your hair can be damaged by harmful sun rays, just like your skin? According to literature reviews, excessive sun exposure is one of the most frequent causes of structural impairment in your hair shaft.

One way you can protect your head from the sun is to wear a hat or a scarf, as you spend time sightseeing outdoors. So, pack a couple of your favourite options to shield your hair from harsh UV rays; you’ll lend a touch of style to your vacay outfit too!

To double up on sun care for your hair, you can also spritz some heat protecting spray, which usually protects from sun damage as well.

2. Keep your hair hydrated before and during your flight

Between the long-haul flights, increased sun exposure, and potential contact with saltwater and chlorine, your hair can become dehydrated while travelling. This, of course, may lead to dry and brittle hair.

You can give your hair a boost of moisture the night before your flight by using a deep conditioning treatment or overnight hair mask.

Besides that, you can bring along a travel-size hydrating hair mist or leave-in conditioner in your personal bag, which will come in handy when your tresses are feeling a little dry during your flight.

3. Pack and use your own hair care products

Most accommodations nowadays provide toiletries for their guests. While little bottles of hotel shampoo and conditioners can look cute, it may be worth bringing your own products anyway.

On one hand, your hair can benefit from the nourishment of your usual products, and on the other, you can avoid any sensitivities or scalp allergies from using shampoo and conditioner with ingredients that aren’t suitable for you.

4. Use a leave-in conditioner during beach or pool time

Going on holiday means swimming and other water-related activities are involved, be it at the pool or beach. However, things like chlorine and salt can dry out your hair, leaving them not only feeling straw-like, but also a tangled mess that’s difficult to comb through.

So, if you plan on getting in the water, get your hair wet in the shower and apply some leave-in conditioner (regular conditioner works in a pinch too!) or nourishing hair oil before dipping in.

Post-swim, try to wash your hair as soon as possible to get rid of chlorine and saltwater, and use hydrating products to add moisture.

5. Learn a couple of cute but practical hairstyles

Don’t want to fret too much about your hair but still want to look effortlessly put together while on vacation? Look up a few hairstyles you like and try to get the hang of the steps prior to your trip.

You’d be surprised how a few strategically placed hair clips, braids, or twists can elevate your look. Mastering an easy French braid or sleek updo is good too.

Plus, the hairstyles can help keep your hair away from your face and neck, great when you’re out and about in hotter climates where you’ll tend to sweat.

6. Use styling products and tools to help your look last longer

Since you likely won’t be able to follow through with your usual at-home routine, you can try maintaining the look of a fresh blowout or updo as you go.

If you can go a few days without washing your hair, products like dry shampoo as well as styling products and tools can help quickly touch up your look, so packing them in your suitcase can be a good idea.

Just make sure the hair tools are lightweight and compact to carry with you, and you’re set.

7. Minimise frizz with overnight braids or buns

If you’re someone who wakes up with tangled or frizzy hair in the morning, putting your hair in a loose bun or overnight braids can prove to be a useful solution any day, but even more so while you’re on holiday.

These hairstyles can help keep your hair secure and sleek as you sleep, and reduce friction between your hair strands.

Another plus point is that you’ll be able to wake up to heatless curls, perfect for spending less time getting ready in your hotel room, and more hours exploring your destination!