About African Photography Safaris
Join us on dedicated wildlife photography safaris, combining expert fieldcraft, photography tuition and a commitment to ethical, respectful and sustainable wildlife viewing. We help photographers of all abilities capture extraordinary moments and tell authentic stories through their images.
Photography takes time. Our exclusive use vehicles allow us to stay with wildlife longer, respond to changing conditions and give you the opportunity to create meaningful images. From lions on the hunt to herds of elephants traversing the savanna and an incredible range birdlife, our safaris combine memorable wildlife encounters with the chance to develop your skills and deepen your understanding of the natural world.
Our approach goes beyond photography.
African Photography Safaris was built around a shared vision with our friend Titimet “Moses” Nampaso, the Maasai owner and manager of Mattikoko Safari Camp in Lemek Conservancy. We established our safaris to work alongside Moses and his team, supporting a locally owned business and a model of tourism that puts wildlife, the conservancy and its communities at the heart of the experience.
Moses is among a relatively small number of Maasai who own and manage their own safari camps. We believe supporting local ownership matters, helping to ensure that more of the benefits of tourism remain with the people whose land, knowledge and commitment make these experiences possible.
For us, a safari should be about more than the wildlife we photograph. It should contribute positively to the places we visit, support those working to protect them and help sustain the landscapes and wildlife that make these experiences possible.
Meet Alan & Kaleel
Alan Hewitt
Alan’s fascination with wildlife photography began on Northumberland’s Farne Islands. Think Puffins, Seals, gales and sideways rain that makes you question your life choices, never mind your lens choices.
These days, his focus stretches further afield to sub-Saharan Africa, where lions, leopards, and elephants take centre stage.
Alan helps photographers sharpen their fieldcraft and storytelling while also learning the technical side. He also teaches how to stay calm when a lioness gets a little too close!
Alan’s work is fuelled by a fascination with the natural world. His (un)healthy obsession with fieldcraft – the behaviours, relationships, and quirks of wildlife is a theme that runs through both his photography and the African Photography Safaris Podcast, usually accompanied by a beer and a generous splash of sarcasm.
From 2020 to 2023, Alan was a FUJIFILM UK “Official X-Photographer”. He continues to represent the brand as an ambassador at events such as the UK Photography and Video Show. Alan also leads workshops for Penda Photo Tours, not just in Africa but also in Europe and India.
Alan’s Wild Insights
Click here to read some of Alan’s Wild Insights blog posts with African Photography Safaris.
Alan’s website and social media:
Kaleel Zibe
Kaleel’s love for filmmaking and photography began somewhere between the mud, midges, and magic of the British outdoors. Patience, waterproofs, and a sense of humour are all essential kit!
These days, that passion takes him far beyond the UK. From the wild coasts of Northumberland to the savannahs of Africa, where he leads photography safaris and helps others capture the wild stories that unfold when nature refuses to follow the script.
With clients like the BBC, RSPB, and Durham University, Kaleel creates award-winning documentaries that have been on TV and shown at festivals. He also works with narrative film crews as a cinematographer and cameraman, and creates promotional videos that celebrate the drama, beauty, and unpredictability of life outdoors.
He’s co-host of the African Photography Safaris Podcast, where he and Alan chat about wildlife, photography, and the occasional mishap, usually with a beer in hand and a fair bit of laughter.
When he’s not behind the camera, Kaleel’s in the air as a qualified drone pilot, or making noise of a different kind as a music producer. He’s released multiple singles and has written music for film.
Based in the north east of the UK, you’re just as likely to find him ankle-deep in a river, chasing golden light, or swapping stories by a campfire somewhere in Africa.
Kaleel’s website and social media:
