Photography in the wild does more than snap shots. It tells the tale of life as it grows in nature’s close, pure ways.
Richard de Gouveia is a skilled nature photographer. He leads us into dark, deep woods where wild gorillas live. His work shows us how to catch their grand look with the lens. Beyond mere tech, his journey shows us how to bond, wait, and focus on what is key.
The Art of Preparation: Limiting Choices to Amplify Creativity
Before he steps into the thick wood, Richard keeps his plan very plain. He takes only two lenses—one wide and one 70–200mm f/2.8 telephoto. This small kit cuts down on fuss and lets his mind be free.
Why f/2.8? In the dim wood, a gorilla’s dark fur can fade away. A wide gap in the lens lets in more light, so his camera can work its art even in low glow.
He sets his camera to shutter mode with a speed of about 1/200 sec to catch each swift move. His goal is clear: take lots of photos, so he can later cull them down to a few truly memorable images. More snaps now help him choose the best work later.
Capturing the Soul: The Eyes as the Gateway
Richard shows that eyes are the soul of a shot. He says, “Eyes are the window of the soul.” Small gleams of light in the eyes make a face come alive. With no such spark, even a neat shot feels still.
When he snaps a resting female gorilla, he frames her close in a wide view. Her form fills the shot in a calm way. He waits with care for that moment when she lifts her gaze and the sky lights her eye—a spark that makes her face tell a tale.
Conveying Power and Presence: Telling the Gorilla’s Story
When a silverback gorilla comes near, the tale takes a turn. Richard shifts his way to show the beast’s might and calm reign. He leaves room in the shot. The open space, with the gorilla’s gaze, asks us: What does he see?
His 70–200mm lens gives him the grace to show not just a lone beast but one in his true home. The scene ties the creature to his wood.
Perspective and Scale: The Power of Angles
Richard shows size by using a low view. He uses a wide 16–35mm lens so that the gorilla looms large against the green wood. This low shot gives a feel of respect and awe.
By opening the lens wide and taking quick shots, he grabs crisp, bold images even when the gorilla moves. His mix of know-how and art makes his shots hit deep.
Beyond the Lens: Presence, Patience, and Respect
Richard’s trek in the wood is more than just about shots. It is about kinship and care. He reminds us that the camera is a tool, not a chain. Sometimes, the best gift is to be present—to put the gear aside and soak in the wild with every sense.
The wood hums with tales, and wild gorillas, with deep thought and true heart, call us to join their story. By pairing craft with true respect, both photographers and nature fans can hold not just pics, but the soul of these grand beasts.
Richard de Gouveia shows that wild photography is a mix of sharp skill and true heart. For those who wish to roam, knowing the land, caring for life, and working with less can bring both fine art and deep growth.
When you meet Africa’s wild face to face, guides and pros lend their hand. You gain not only grand shots but the rare chance to see the wild close up—a firm sign that the best art lives in the mind and heart, not in mere pixels.
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