Sharon Thorp
USA
My first trip with Wild4 was in 2016. Since then, I have travelled with the Wild4 team on many
scheduled and custom safaris to Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana and South Africa.
On every occasion, it has been so easy and so productive photographically, due to the excellence of the entire team – from Justyna covering logistics, Stu’s photography skills, and the skills and
knowledge of the local guides.
My photography has improved measurably - thanks to Stu’s tutoring, knowledge of animal behaviour, the skill and knowledge of the local guides positioning
the vehicle for the best shots, and the fact that each photographer has their own row in the safari vehicle. Having my own row is a requirement for me.
I highly recommend Wild 4 for your African safari.
Greg Morgan
UK
The Wild4 team made my trip to South Africa a truly memorable experience. Stu's tuition on techniques, composition and familiarity with your gear was the foundation for the rest of the trip.
We had some wonderful sightings - highlighted by spending time with a leopard cub in a tree no more than 30 metres away and watching a pride of 14 lions stalking a herd of zebra for more than an hour - just wonderful experiences! The quality of my shots was infinitely better than on a regular safari, as the whole focus is expertly designed to maximise photographic opportunities.
Stu's knowledge, enthusiasm and patience were boundless, and Ann's spotting and catering skills were priceless! I hope to visit Africa again soon, and without a doubt Wild4 will be my first option.
Ulhas Mayekar
USA
I have always dreamed of taking a photo safari to Africa but had a disappointing first attempt last year. The urge was still there, so after some more research, I came upon Wild4 African Photo Safaris. I was excited that this time I would really get the experience I was hoping for, and it did not fail.
The pre-tour information left me well informed. I could already tell that this would be an adventure of a lifetime. On safari, Stu’s knowledge continued to surprise me. Not only does he know about photography, but his familiarity with the animals and their environment is unbelievable. This meant he never let us miss an opportunity. Stu was patient and informative. His tips will help with all of my future photography endeavours.
This Wild4 Safari went above and beyond all of my expectations. It really was a dream come true.
John & Marie Holding
AUSTRALIA
Our 14 days with Wild4 Safaris was the best learning experience we have ever embarked on. We were totally immersed in the world of wildlife photography, in the best place in the world, with one of the best pro photographers around. Stu genuinely enjoys sharing his knowledge and passion for wildlife and photography. It was an unbelievably rewarding learning experience, raising our skill levels significantly.
Stu and his team were able to teach us about our equipment and the application of new skills. This sharing of skills, along with the excellent booklet (which became Marie's bible) is world-class. It ensured we got to places that others didn't and that we were always in the best position to shoot. Stu didn't disappoint and was able to put together some memorable opportunities to get many excellent shots.
The whole package was first class, from the pickup, through accommodation, food and day trips, to the people (now friends) who we met on the trip. This is one of those bucket list adventures that we will be doing again with WILD4.
Marcia & Phil
USA
We loved our custom trip to Namibia, with Wild4 African Photographic Safaris. Stu and Justyna planned every detail for my husband, me, and a good friend we met on a prior trip with WILD4.
We covered much of the country and had a mind-blowing variety of looks at a very interesting country. Our accommodations, meals and experiences could not be surpassed. Based on our preferences, we toured Sossusvlei in a fixed-wing plane/ the images we got there were breathtaking! We also did a balloon tour which was lovely and peaceful. Our 4x4 desert creature tour was intimate and revealed small animals that we'd have otherwise never seen. A 4x4 Sandwich harbor tour took us to yellow sand dunes, close-ups with 2 shipwrecks, close encounters with jackals, seals, birds, and the dunes themselves. We did a boat tour in Walvis Bay, where we were joined by pelicans & seals on board. A walking tour at Deadvlei was exhausting but worth it. Each tour was more incredible than we had imagined. What an unforgettable experience!!! And that's not even talking about Etosha - the animals were different and it was really enjoyable. Sebastian, our guide. was patient, knowledgeable, and helpful.
This was our second tour with WILD4, and we are about to sign up for another. You can't go wrong with Stu and Justyna. Worth every penny!
Thanks,
Marcia & Phil
Andrew Oliver
CANADA
For thirty-five years I have dreamed of going on a photographic safari in South Africa. I have finally realised that dream and my hopes and expectations were surpassed in every way.
I researched extensively before settling on Wild4 Photo Safaris. What an inspired choice that was! This family company provides the perfect safari experience for photographers of every skill level.
Stu is a fine wild-life photographer and a first-class teacher. His knowledge of the habitat and habits of the animals and birds to be found in Kruger National Park is simply encyclopaedic. My 25-year-old daughter and I eagerly adapted to the early morning wake-up call, to go off into the wilds in one of Stu’s specially fitted jeeps, to catch the sunrise.
Every day brought its special moments and we returned home with thousands of photos to sort through and cherish for the memories they’ll bring back.
A safari with Wild 4 is a photographic experience with a master photographer, an initiation into the wonders of South African wildlife and spectacular landscapes - and an experience of friendship as everyone aboard the jeep bonds in common purpose.
Everything about Wild 4 is first class. The organization is superb, accommodations excellent, choices of locale perfect. Our safari with Stu and Wild4 was truly the experience of a lifetime.
Linda Cappello
AUSTRALIA
I recently did a Wild4 trip with a friend, which far outweighed our expectations. Wow, what a trip!. Stu has extensive knowledge of the animals and their habitats and was always mindful of us getting the best shots possible. We had our own bench seats which was great as we both had plenty of space for our equipment. Each vehicle has beanbags to steady your camera/lens, pockets and enough room to take a camera bag. I loved that we could sit and watch lions at Mala Mala play in the Sand River, it was a fantastic opportunity.
Stu provided us with some great tuition and I learned a lot of new photo techniques. We had many opportunities for night photography, silhouettes, time-lapse, low light etc.,
I would highly recommend the Wild4 Team for your next photographic safari, you will not be disappointed.
Marian Herz
United States
The Botswana trip I just completed was my 4th with Wild4. They are by far the best safari company with which I've traveled. Everything starts with wonderful pre-trip information. Then comes the planning details, wonderfully handled by Justyna. The trips themselves are beyond imagination. Stu gives everyone a full bench, so that one can photograph from either side. His guides/ drivers (and Stu himself) are great spotters, encyclopedias of information about what we're seeing and they know how to position the vehicle for the best pictures. Staying in the mobile camp was a first for me. The tents were comfortable and the staff gave us a luxury experience and gourmet food. It was amazing to have wildlife just walking through the camp. Reactions to my photos from this trip have been spectacular. I know that when I travel with Stu, I will get great shots. He is also there to provide photo tips on how to best capture the wildlife and also the processing of your images. It was Stu's tip that finally allowed me to get that Lilac-breasted Roller takeoff. Thank you Stu, for great and well-organized trips. Anyone who wants the best safari experience and great photos needs to travel with Wild4. www.marianherz.zenfolio.com
Colleen Sullivan
USA
Wild4 Photo Safari gave me much more than an average safari tour. The experiences, friends, and information gathered from my trip will stay with me forever. My anticipations were greatly exceeded, beyond anything I could ever have dreamed of. I Love Wild4!!
David Austwick
UK
On arrival, we were treated as part of the family by the Wild4 Team. We had everything we needed for the task – a specially equipped “Hide on Wheels”, a dedicated and professional approach to photography and plenty of time.
The initial sighting would be accompanied by the excited, rapid firing of shutters, but then we would settle and wait as long as necessary in the hope of getting something different. Stu’s awareness of animal behaviour and camera settings was very useful in planning our shots.
His knowledge of African wildlife and skill as a wildlife photographer is second to none, and I have learned a lot from his expertise. I am delighted with my photos!!
This was the trip of a lifetime, good accommodation, delicious food and great company. It was altogether a wonderful, challenging and thrilling experience and, if you are looking for a photo safari in Africa, contact Stu Porter at Wild4.
