Page 65 - Discover Botswana 25th Edition - 2025

DISCOVER BOTSWANA 25TH EDITION 65
TULI
Located on the easternmost tip of central Botswana, the Tuli
Block is bordered by Zimbabwe to the north and South
Africa to the south. Unlike much of Botswana, the Tuli
Block features a landscape dominated by rocky outcrops
and vast open plains. The area is rich with baobabs, fever
berry forests, and towering mashatu (nyala-berry) trees,
all framed by the Motloutse and Limpopo rivers, along with countless
streams scattered throughout.
In the realm of wildlife photography, the angle from which a shot is
captured can transform an image from ordinary to extraordinary. This
article embarks on a visual exploration to showcase the captivating essence
of low angle wildlife photography and reveal its unique allure. Tuli, with
its undulating landscapes and sunken hides, is the perfect place for this
demonstration.
Visual perspective is the cornerstone of every compelling photograph.
Aerial views, eye-level shots, and low angle views each contribute depth,
emotion, and narrative to an image. Aerial views offer panoramic vistas,
ideal for mapping landscapes or capturing the sprawling beauty of nature
from above. Eye-level perspectives mirror our own vantage point, creating
a sense of intimacy and familiarity with the subject. However, it is the low
angle view that reigns supreme in wildlife photography, presenting subjects
in a dramatic light that demands attention and ignites the imagination.
Previous pages: An Impala ram, in his prime, takes a drink at a waterhole in
the Northern Tuli Game Reserve. There is a great advantage to making use
of a sunken hide to get low on a variety of subjects.
Facing page: Early morning and late afternoon could lead to capturing
elusive animals such as leopard. Being in a hide allows photographers to
get up close and minimizing any impact on wildlife behavior.
Above: The red-billed oxpeckers, busy themselves combing through the fur
of an eland in search of parasites. There is some advantage to the host as
they assist in keeping them free of lice and ticks.
Below: A breeding herd of elephants emerge from forested areas enroute
to a waterhole. Being water reliant allows photographers to stake out
waterholes in search of low angle imagery.