Mountain Gorilla Photography tips

Spending time with mountain gorillas is a truly magical experience. As you venture through the lush, mist-shrouded landscapes of the jungle, the air thick with anticipation, time seems to pause, and the vibrancy of the rainforest intensifies with every step. The crescendo is the moment of convergence, face to face with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Their expressive eyes, gentle demeanor, and familial interactions unveil an intimate glimpse into a world that mirrors our own in unexpected ways. This extraordinary experience is more than a trek; it's an experience of a lifetime as you will form a connection with these enigmatic giants.

But how do you translate this connection into timeless photographs?

How do you make the most of the 1 hour you are able to spend with them each day?

Photographing in the rainforest presents a set of challenges due to the dense vegetation, low light conditions, and the likelihood of rain. However, with careful preparation and the right techniques, you can capture stunning images.

Here are some key insights I've gained from my treks with mountain gorillas.

1. The Basics:

  • Rainy season is best: Gorillas in intense sunlight typically don't yield the most favorable photographic results. Given that our photography sessions often span from mid-morning to the middle of the day, I lean towards capturing mountain gorillas in the rainy season. During this period, overcast skies produce more evenly distributed lighting that helps to mitigate harsh shadows and highlights. This atmospheric condition acts like a natural diffuser, creating a soft and flattering illumination across the gorillas' features.

  • Comfortable and waterproof clothing: Anticipate treks lasting anywhere from 5 minutes to several hours as you search for your designated mountain gorilla family. This underscores the significance of wearing comfortable and waterproof clothing. It is imperative to wear a waterproof jacket, pants, and either hiking shoes or rubber boots. Choosing attire with superior waterproofing not only ensures you stay dry but also allows you to concentrate on observing the mountain gorillas without the distraction of getting wet.

  • Rain covers: Carry rain covers or waterproof sleeves to shield your camera, lens, and camera bag during unexpected rain showers. A simple plastic bag can serve as a makeshift rain cover in a pinch. In the event of heavy rain, you may have the option to request a brief delay until the rain lessens before your allotted time with the mountain gorillas begins.

  • Take advantage of porters: While I typically prefer to carry my own equipment on hikes, I make an exception in this location. For every trek, I choose to hire a porter, not out of necessity but as a conscious decision to contribute to the local community. The income generated from mountain gorilla tourism plays a crucial role in supporting their conservation efforts.

2. Camera Settings:

  • Wide Aperture: Use a wide aperture (low f-stop number) to allow more light into your camera, especially in the dimly lit rainforest.

  • Higher ISO: Be prepared to use a higher ISO setting to maintain a faster shutter speed in low light conditions. Do not hesitate to push the boundaries and surpass the 10,000 ISO mark. Given the advancements in denoising software, the possibilities for capturing quality images even at higher ISO levels are truly remarkable.

  • Fast Shutter Speed: To capture sharp images and freeze any movement, aim for a fast shutter speed. This is particularly important to capture mountain gorilla behavior.

3. Composition Tips:

  • Know the direction of light: It's crucial to be aware of the sun's position. When the sun is not illuminating the gorilla's face, it results in a lack of light, casting shadows and making it difficult for your camera to discern and capture intricate details. The subdued lighting can obscure the nuances of the gorilla's features, hindering the clarity and definition in your photographs. Conversely, when the light falls directly on the gorilla's face, it transforms the scene dramatically. The well-lit conditions not only banish shadows but also enhance the visibility of details, bringing out the richness of texture and color. In particular, the eyes, often considered the windows to the soul, benefit from this illumination, revealing a vivid orange color.

  • Zoom in closely: In environments with abundant vegetation, consider zooming in closely on the gorilla's face. The lush surroundings might be overwhelming, and by narrowing your focus, you can capture the intricate details of the gorilla's features. What makes this particularly fascinating is the distinct nose print that each gorilla possesses. By emphasizing this unique characteristic, your photographs not only showcase the individuality of each gorilla but also add an intriguing and personal touch to your collection of shots.

  • Embrace a wide-angle perspective: Opting for a wide-angle approach can significantly contribute to conveying a more immersive and comprehensive narrative about the mountain gorillas. Instead of solely focusing on close-up shots, expanding your frame to capture the gorilla within its natural environment provides viewers with a broader context. By incorporating the surroundings, such as the lush vegetation, terrain, and the overall habitat, you create a visual story that goes beyond the individual gorilla. This wider perspective allows the audience to appreciate the gorilla's place within its ecosystem, showcasing not only the majestic presence of the creature but also the intricacies of its living environment.

  • Focus on food: Documenting the distinctive feeding behavior of mountain gorillas adds a captivating layer to your photographic narrative. These remarkable primates engage in a variety of feeding activities, from delicately plucking leaves to munching on bamboo shoots, each moment presenting an opportunity to showcase their fascinating behavior. When photographing their feeding habits, pay attention to the details. Capture the dexterity of their hands as they skillfully manipulate vegetation, the focused expression in their eyes as they forage for food, and the nuanced movements that characterize their feeding rituals. By highlighting these subtleties, you not only provide a visual record of their dietary preferences but also offer viewers a glimpse into the intricate and intentional nature of their feeding behavior.

  • Follow the interactions: Document the intricate social interactions among mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. From the tender exchanges between mothers and offspring, revealing familial bonds, to the broader dynamics of communal communication and grooming rituals, each frame captures the essence of gorilla society. Focus on the nuanced expressions, gestures, and hierarchies that define their interconnected lives, offering viewers a profound insight into the rich social tapestry woven by these magnificent creatures within the lush landscapes they call home.

  • Delve into the details: Zoom in to unveil the captivating details of mountain gorillas—the weathered lines on their faces, the texture of their fur, and the robust muscles in their limbs. These close-up shots not only showcase their physical prowess but also capture the subtleties of their complex social interactions, and an alternative glimpse into their lives.

No eyes, no problem: Embrace the diverse photographic opportunities beyond traditional portraits, for even when the eyes are hidden, there's a wealth of captivating compositions to capture. In particular, focus on the rich silver fur of the silverback, which is mostly visible from behind. The silverback's coat not only reflects its age and maturity but also serves as a visual testament to its dominant role within the gorilla group. By directing your focus to the mesmerizing silver coloration, you unlock the beauty and allure found in the subtleties of these remarkable creatures even when eye contact is elusive.

It is an incredible privilege to walk among these magical animals. Through the lens of a camera, the magic of the moment is preserved—every sight, sound, and emotion encapsulated in a single frame.

A mere two decades ago, these majestic creatures teetered on the brink of extinction, facing grave threats to their existence. However, through unwavering dedication and a concerted conservation effort, there has been a remarkable turnaround. Their numbers have seen a notable increase, offering a glimmer of hope in what was once a precarious scenario.

A continued commitment to conservation, education, and sustainable practices provides the foundation for crafting another chapter in the story of mountain gorillas—one filled with hope, resilience, and the promise of a thriving future. This ongoing dedication ensures that these incredible animals not only endure but flourish in their natural habitats. In safeguarding the future of mountain gorillas, we, too, secure a more harmonious and enriched world for ourselves and generations to come.