Camera setup
Set the camera before the action begins. Use a shutter speed that matches movement, continuous autofocus and a sensible auto-ISO ceiling. Keep one wider focal length ready for landscape and context, not only a long lens.
From a vehicle
A beanbag is often more useful than a tripod. Keep straps controlled, avoid leaning equipment outside near branches and never move abruptly in an open vehicle. Ask the guide to position for light, background and animal direction without pressuring wildlife.
Dust and rain
Change lenses only when necessary, use a blower rather than rubbing dust, carry a rain cover and back up files every evening. Condensation can form when moving from a cool room or mountain environment into warm humid air; let equipment acclimatise in a closed bag.
People and places
For portraits, explain why you are photographing, obtain consent and record names accurately. At lodges, ask whether guests have signed releases. At community projects, child safeguarding and organisational permission are essential.
Drone regulation
Drones are regulated by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority. Aircraft registration, operator certification, operational authorisation, airspace restrictions and local permissions may apply. National parks, conservancies, cities, airports, military areas and private properties can have additional restrictions.
Do not arrive assuming you can fly
A foreign drone or foreign pilot credential does not automatically grant permission to operate in Kenya. Commercial production may require a licensed local operator and advance approvals. Importing, filming and flying are separate questions.
Wildlife welfare
Never use a drone to chase, follow closely, herd or provoke wildlife. Rotor noise can disturb animals even when they appear calm. Flight plans should avoid nesting sites, sensitive species, people and lodge privacy.
Wilderness Eye aerial work
Wilderness Eye scopes aerial production according to current KCAA requirements and the permissions of each property or protected area. Where a licensed operating partner or additional permit is required, that is identified before quotation and production.
Official links
This page is not a permit. Confirm the exact operation with KCAA and the relevant land or protected-area authority before bringing or flying a drone.
Reviewed 4 August 2026
Build a practical camera kit
A mid-range zoom handles animals near the vehicle and environmental scenes; a longer lens helps with distant behaviour; a wider lens records lodge interiors and landscape. Two bodies reduce lens changes in dust but are not essential for every traveller.
Respect before the frame
Never ask a guide to chase, block or crowd wildlife for a photograph. Discuss permission before photographing staff, community members or children. A technically strong image is not worth causing stress or removing dignity.
Drone planning
Drone ownership, registration, pilot requirements, flight permissions, protected-area rules, security restrictions and landowner consent are separate questions. Do not arrive assuming recreational use is automatically allowed. Verify current Kenya Civil Aviation Authority requirements and destination-specific restrictions before travelling with a drone.
File safety
Use at least two copies of important work. Name folders by date and location, separate edited exports from originals, and keep one backup physically separate from the main camera bag.