Join Photo Insiders
The Joy Blog

My Photography Gear for an African Safari in Kenya

english photography gear photography tips
African Safari Photography Gear

 

When it comes to adventures, this one is taking me out of my comfort zone—an African safari in Kenya with some of the best photographers and, for a change, I’m not the one leading the trip! From photographing lions, elephants, and giraffes to navigating the unknowns of wildlife photography, this journey promises a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Wildlife isn’t my usual scene—I’m more familiar with dogs and weddings than with wild animals—but I’m eager to see if this trip changes my perspective.

 

My packing list includes the Canon EOS R1 and R5 Mark II, both known for their incredible autofocus and battery life, along with a selection of versatile lenses like the RF 1-300mm f/2.8, the RF 85mm f/1.2, and the RF 28-70mm f/2. These choices aim to keep my kit light while giving me the flexibility to capture everything from sweeping landscapes to intimate wildlife portraits. And yes, no tripods or monopods—just me, my gear, and quick movements.

 

Beyond photography, this experience will be about adapting to new challenges and learning from seasoned wildlife photographers like Matt Dirksen. I’m also braving this trip with Jared Polin, Manny Ortiz, and others, making it both a photographic and social adventure. Stay tuned for updates on whether I survive the wilderness and the company!

P.S. If my photos turn out great, I might even create a print shop on Squarespace. It’s my go-to platform for easy, professional websites—perfect for selling prints and showcasing new work. Don’t miss out—use my link for a free trial and a discount!

Ready to learn more?

Take the free Speed Posing 101 class

Learn how to pose individuals, couples, and groups with precision and speed. This free class will help you shoot with confidence no matter the situation and consistently wow your clients with a variety of stunning images.

Take the free class

Latest from the blog

I used the WORST ISO on the Canon EOS R5 Mark II and got SHOCKING r...

My Photography Gear for an African Safari in Kenya

How to Hire Your FIRST Employee 👉 and how to know when you're ready


Meet Vanessa

Photography education that gives your art an edge

Vanessa has been photographing weddings, events, portraits and lifestyle for over 20 years.

She's a Canon Explorer of Light, an honor given to only 5 photographers in the United States, and her work has been published by Yahoo! News, Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, Rangefinder and more.

With her practical and open-book style of teaching, she shares everything she knows with hundreds of thousands of photographers as an educator and influential sparker.

Work with Vanessa →

Join Vanessa Joy's Photo Insiders

Come sit at our “lunch table” and learn with top-notch video lessons released monthly, a private community and live photoshoots. Join our live group coaching calls, request videos, and get your individual questions answered.

Become a member

Free downloads

Don't leave without your goody bag
Free Preset

Steal my favorite preset

Save time editing with this preset that I personally use on my outdoor photos to brighten and warm up the scene.

i'm ready

Free guide

The Posing Inspiration Guide

Use my poses that your clients will love. Swipe ideas for posing individuals, couples, groups, and details.

yup, i need it

Free Class

Speed Posing 101

Struggling feeling confident shooting, delivering a variety of images, and posing with precision and speed? This is for you!

let's do this!

Get photography tips and resources

Join our email list to get it all directly in your inbox.