What is the Best Time of Day to Photograph the Migration?
The Great Migration is one of the most breathtaking natural events in Africa. Every year, over a million wildebeest, zebras, and other animals move between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya, searching for fresh grass and water. If you love photography, this is a dream come true. But when is the best time of day to take stunning photos of this incredible journey?
As a guide and safari specialist from Seko Tours, I will share expert tips to help you capture the best moments of the Great Migration. This guide will show you the perfect times of the day to photograph, what to expect, and how to make the most of your photography safari in Kenya.
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Early Morning: The Golden Hour of Wildlife Photography
The early morning, just after sunrise, is one of the best times to photograph the migration. This time is often called the “golden hour” because the sunlight is soft and warm, giving a magical glow to everything it touches.
Why is early morning the best?
- The light is warm and soft, creating beautiful colors.
- Animals are more active because it is cool.
- The air is usually clear, with no heatwaves or dust.
- You can capture dramatic silhouettes of animals against the rising sun.
If you want amazing shots of wildebeests crossing rivers, early morning is perfect. The calm water reflects the sunrise, and the animals are fresh and energetic.
Photography Tip: Use a wide aperture (like f/4 or f/5.6) to let in more light and create a soft background that makes your subject stand out.
Mid-Morning: Action Shots and Predator Encounters
As the sun rises higher, the light becomes harsher, but this is also when a lot of action happens. The migration is not just about moving animals; it is also about survival. Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas take advantage of the wildebeests and zebras, making for dramatic scenes.
What makes mid-morning good for photography?
- Predators are more active as they hunt during this time.
- You can capture the intense energy of the migration.
- Animals start gathering around waterholes, making for great composition.
However, the light at this time can be bright and create harsh shadows. Position yourself so the sun is behind you to get the best lighting.
Photography Tip: Use a fast shutter speed (like 1/1000s or faster) to freeze motion when capturing chases or crossings.
Afternoon: The Heat and Dust of the Migration
By midday and early afternoon, the sun is at its highest, making the light harsh. The heat causes animals to slow down, and many rest under trees or near waterholes. This is not the best time for photography, but it can still be useful if you know what to shoot.
How to take good photos in the afternoon?
- Capture dust clouds as animals move – they create dramatic effects.
- Look for animals resting in the shade for intimate portraits.
- Use the bright light to highlight patterns on zebra and wildebeest skin.
Photography Tip: Lower your ISO (like 100 or 200) to avoid too much brightness and use a lens hood to reduce glare.
Late Afternoon and Sunset: The Magical Hour
Just like early morning, late afternoon is another golden hour. The sun is low again, casting long shadows and a golden glow over the landscape. This is the perfect time for landscape shots and artistic images of the migration.
Why is sunset photography special?
- The warm golden light makes everything look beautiful.
- You can capture silhouettes of animals against the setting sun.
- It’s a peaceful time when animals are drinking water or moving slowly.
Photography Tip: Experiment with slow shutter speeds (like 1/60s) to capture movement in a creative way.
Night Photography: Capturing the Wild Under the Stars
If you have a good camera, night photography during the migration can be incredible. You can capture animals drinking water under the moonlight or use long exposures to photograph the stars over the savannah.
How to take great night photos?
- Use a tripod to keep your camera steady.
- Increase your ISO (like 3200 or 6400) to capture more light.
- Look for lions or hyenas, as they are more active at night.
Photography Tip: Use a flashlight to add a little light to your subject without disturbing the scene.
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Conclusion: When Should You Take Photos of the Migration?
The best times to photograph the Great Migration are:
- Early morning for golden light and active animals.
- Mid-morning for predator action and river crossings.
- Late afternoon for magical lighting and silhouettes.
- Night for unique shots of the nocturnal world.
If you dream of capturing the Great Migration in Kenya, Seko Tours can help you create a custom safari designed for photography. We know the best spots, the best times, and how to get you close to the action without disturbing nature.
