Bring your photography skills to the next level and support conservation initiatives
Are you passionate about photography, keen to improve your skills, and have an interest in wildlife conservation? Take the next step in exploring the thrilling profession of wildlife photography with this exciting opportunity.
With this Wildlife Photography Internship in the Greater Kruger Area of South Africa, you will bring your wildlife photography skills to the next level and support wildlife conservation initiatives at the same time. Be prepared for early starts to capture daily shots of the magical scenery and incredible animals, increase your knowledge of wildlife, habitats, & ecosystems, and assist with education in the community. Photography can be used as a powerful tool to increase awareness of conservation and other local and global issues. With the guidance of a professional photographer, you’ll learn how to capture moments that can be used to make a lasting positive impact on the African bush.
ORGANIZATION
This organization is a social development company that is driven by six individual causes that have been developed through our long-term relationships and experience with communities and volunteering in Africa. These causes motivate, excite and focus their vision, and allow them to offer internships that contribute to wider causes in Africa. As responsible leaders, they are committed to supporting our professional internship portfolio, all of which are unique in support and celebrated results. Through cultural immersion, the internships give individuals the ability to incorporate academic and experiential learning outside the classroom.
They also have a photographic database to support conservation charities and the photographs you take during this internship will be added to their selection. They are free to use for conservation charities for awareness and fundraising efforts. Profit-making organizations have to purchase the images, and the money goes directly into wildlife research projects. You will be credited wherever possible. In addition, your pictures may be used for educational purposes at schools in surrounding communities.
TASKS & REQUIREMENTS
What you’ll do
- Photography: your primary focus will be on wildlife photography (big and small) but you will also have plenty of opportunities to take photos of f.e. landscapes, people, star skies, etc.
- Photo editing: editing of (some) of your best photographs
- Conservation: biweekly physical conservation activities to help restore habitats and ecosystems such as clearing encroaching bush and removing invasive plants species
- Education: assist with conservation education in primary and high schools to increase awareness.
- Personal assignment: together with your mentor you will decide on your personal photography assignment.
- Attend presentations on wildlife, habitats, ecology, and threats they face.
- Attend critique sessions where you will assess others’ photographs and analyze them.
- Daily game drive along with workshops and activities. Keep in mind, wildlife viewing requires patience and dedication.
Requirements
- Creative eye: Great photography is about the imagination and ‘eye’ of the photographer, so we are looking for people with a unique perspective. While these animals, landscapes, and people can hardly ever look anything other than spectacular, it is possible to capture something in a photo that will tell a story and take your breath away.
- Camera skills: You will need to be confident with your camera and have a good working knowledge of how to use it.
- Software skills: A working knowledge of editing software like Lightroom is essential. Experience of photo editing software such as Photoshop would be an added bonus.
- Positivity and Passion: While interning and living in South Africa, the bush will bring its own unique challenges that will require you to be patient, positive, and flexible!
- Equipment: SLR camera with at least an 18-55 mm lens; batteries, a battery charger, and memory cards; laptop with editing software (ideally Adobe Lightroom, as this is used during workshops); a tripod and external hard drive are highly recommended, but not essential
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
You will be based at a traditional bush lodge in a Big 5 private reserve on the shores of the Olifants River. The surrounding wilderness is known as the Greater Kruger Area and Africa’s most iconic (and endangered) animals can be found here. The lodge reflects the project values of environmental conservation (think about recycling, sustainable use of resources, environmental education, and the use of locally grown produce and ethically sourced ingredients).
The accommodation includes 7 large dorm rooms (with aircon and full bathrooms) overlooking the Olifants River. This offers the chance to get the occasional visit from animals such as giraffes, hippos, or elephants while they come for a drink. Facilities include a swimming pool, outdoor fire pit, small outdoor gym, lounges and social areas, as well as a small shop where you can buy snacks and basic toiletries. At weekends you can visit the surrounding area at additional costs (like the world-famous Blyde River Canyon or take a drive into the heart of Kruger National Park). The team is there to help you organize your day and overnight trips. You will be sharing a dorm room with other interns and volunteers.
DATES & RATES
Start dates
2023: 16 April – 14 May – 11 June – 9 July – 6 August – 3 September – 1 October – 29 October – 26 November – 24 December
2024: 21 January – 18 February – 17 March – 14 April – 12 May – 9 June – 7 July – 4 August – 1 September – 29 September – 27 October – 24 November – 22 December
What you will pay (2022/2023 rates)
8 weeks USD 5,995
9 weeks USD 6,495
10 weeks USD 6,995
11 weeks USD 7,495
12 weeks USD 7,995
What you are paying for:
- Accommodation
- 3 meals per day
- Airport transfers
- All logistics and transport on the ground
- Housekeeping service
- Wifi access
- 24-hour support from experienced staff
- Assistance with your visa arrangement & other preparations
- Full orientation, training, and guidance from our team including mentorship from a professional photographer
- Supervision and support during your internship
- Check-ins and feedback from your supervisor
- A reference letter at the end of your internship
- Personal account on NexGen Careers, a career development platform that offers content & courses focused on exploring different career opportunities
- Troubleshooting if needed
Excludes:
- Flights to Hoedspruit
- Visa and medical & travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Laundry
- Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
QUICK FACTS
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Greater Kruger, South Africa |
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Wildlife, Conservation |
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Photography, Conservation |
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8-12 Weeks |
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USD 5,995 |
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING
”This has been a once in a lifetime experience. I came to the project knowing far less than I even thought about both my camera and the art of photography, but the team have taught, encouraged and pushed my boundaries. The difference between the photos I produced at the start of the trip, to the photos I have produced in the final week, are almost incomparable as I have improved so much.
INTERNSHIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Improve your (wildlife) photography skills and build an amazing portfolio
- Learn how to use pre-visualisation, production, and editing to form your own definitive photography style
- Use your photographs for a higher purpose and learn how to use photography as a conservation and education tool
- Be inspired and learn from the work of other photographers
- Learn and understand more about South Africa’s wildlife, it’s habitats and ecosystems, and the people
8 WEEKS USD 5,995
10 WEEKS USD 6,995
12 WEEKS USD 7,995
10 WEEKS USD 6,995
12 WEEKS USD 7,995
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this photography program or internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV and portfolio with us.
SELECTION
We will review your application and discuss it with the supervisor and/or program manager. An interview might be part of the selection process
CONFIRMATION
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you all the information you need.
PAYMENT
We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit. Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this program or internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
