The Wild Eye Podcast

Andrew just got back from four days of gorilla trekking in Uganda's Bwindi forest, and he's breaking down what it's really like getting close to mountain gorillas. From a three-week-old baby born with tourists watching to 400-pound silverbacks walking past you like you're not even there.He covers the reality vs expectations, why a 70-200mm lens is essential, how the guides prioritize gorilla welfare over perfect shots, and that crucial moment when you need to put the camera down and just experience it. Plus insights from spending time with the Batwa people and learning local culture.If gorilla trekking is on your bucket list, this is what you need to know before you go.Visit the Wild Eye website here: https://wild-eye.com/travel-expriences/uganda-travel-inspiration/

Meet Gabby Sikora - she's 17, dreams of being a wildlife vet, and accidentally built one of Southern Africa's biggest youth conservation networks. What started as a 13-year-old with a point-and-shoot camera and three friends on Instagram has turned into YWPSA - 800+ young photographers across Southern Africa using their cameras to protect what they love.Gabby breaks down how she went from watching safari streams as a kid to partnering with Canon and working alongside organizations like BirdLife South Africa. She talks about why youth voices matter in conservation, how photography can actually help save wildlife (not just capture pretty shots), and what happens when you give teenagers real responsibility.If you've ever wondered whether one person can actually make a difference, or if you're curious about the next generation stepping up for nature - this one's for you. Plus, Gabby's got some strong opinions about ethical wildlife photography that might surprise you.This is Gabby's debut on Wild Eye, but definitely not her last - stay tuned for more episodes where she'll be taking the host seat and bringing you the stories that matter in conservation.Visit the YWPSA website here: https://www.ywpofsa.co.za/

In this episode Gerry and Johan tackle the messy world of wildlife guiding ethics and social media drama. They discuss guides posting dangerous animal encounters for likes, the problem with calling each other out online, and why some people seem obsessed with pushing boundaries just to create viral content. From wild dogs biting clients' shoes to elephants walking inches from tourists, they break down where the line should be drawn and question whether the constant finger-pointing is actually helping anyone. It's a raw conversation about responsibility, privilege, and what safari experiences should really be about.Visit the Wild Eye website: https://wild-eye.com/

In this episode Gerry shares some thoughts on how social media influences the experience when you're out in the field and he shares a piece he wrote on this called The Performance of Wonder.Visit the Wild Eye website: https://wild-eye.com/

In this episode Gerry shares some thoughts on the impact of letting your photography get in the way of a beautiful experience.Read the blog post here: https://wild-eye.com/the-art-of-taking/Visit the Wild Eye website here: https://wild-eye.com/

In this episode, Andrew speaks to two of his guests about the Namibia adventure they just completed. They discuss the extreme experiences, incredible wildlife encounters, and the contrasts of their two-week journey through one of Africa's most remote regions.It's a candid conversation about what it means to completely disconnect and experience the wild in its rawest form, recorded around a campfire under the stars.So settle in and join them as they unpack their Namibian adventure.Visit the Wild Eye website here: https://wild-eye.com/

In 13 years of guiding safaris, Michael Laubscher had never witnessed anything like this. Deep in Zambia's Lower Zambezi National Park, a small female leopard found herself face-to-face with one of Africa's most intelligent species - a lone baboon stranded high in a towering winter thorn tree. What followed was an hour-long battle of wits, strategy, and raw survival instinct that defied everything Michael thought he knew about predator behavior. This is the story of the hunt that stopped time, where nature rewrote the rulebook before his very eyes.Visit our website here: https://wild-eye.com/

In this episode Gerry she is a very simple approach as to when you should be getting creative with your images out in the field.

Join Donovan Cross, Wild Eye guide and passionate birder, as he breaks down everything you need to know about birding - from spotting your first backyard birds to tracking rare species across Africa. Don shares practical tips on choosing gear, learning bird families, and why patience beats luck every time. Plus, hear the hilarious story of how a "romantic picnic" at a sewage treatment plant actually led to incredible bird sightings. Whether you're safari-bound or just curious about those creatures outside your window, this episode will change how you see the world around you.You can visit our website here: https://wild-eye.com/

Are we chasing the latest camera tech or actually focusing on making better pictures? Some photographers seem obsessed with specs and upgrades, while others stick with older gear and concentrate on their craft. What really matters when you're behind the lens? In this episode Gerry talks about finding that balance between appreciating good tools and not letting gear become a distraction from what photography is actually about - capturing moments and telling stories.You can visit our website here: https://wild-eye.com/

Kilimanjaro towers over Kenya's Amboseli National Park, creating one of Africa's most iconic safari backdrops. But timing your visit makes all the difference when it comes to seeing elephants against this magnificent mountain. After ten years of guiding in Amboseli, Michael Laubscher breaks down the park's distinct seasons and what each offers. From the predictable elephant movements and dusty lake bed crossings of the dry months, to the lush green landscapes and clearer mountain views during the rains, learn how to plan your Amboseli safari based on what you want to experience. Michael shares practical insights on weather patterns, animal behavior, and why his personal favorite time to visit might not be what you'd expect.Visit our website: https://wild-eye.com/

The pink team just smashed records at Gold Reef City's Amazing Race, and they're not letting anyone forget it. Donovan (one month in) and the crew take you through their epic victory - complete with questionable strategy, Danny's log ride disaster, and certificates going straight into emergency folders. This is what happens when competitive safari guides get turned loose in a theme park. Records were broken, the black team lost, and everyone's still wearing pink.Featuring victory laps from the entire winning team - because when you dominate this hard, everybody gets to brag about it.Visit our website here: https://wild-eye.com/

In this episode, Johan sits down with Wild Eye's newest team members, Monique and Donovan, to hear about their journey joining the safari business. Monique discusses her transition from lodge work to the travel consultation team, while Donovan shares his experience stepping into sales and discovering the behind-the-scenes magic of safari planning. Both talk about the learning curve of joining Wild Eye, their upcoming Kenya adventures, and how the team's collaborative approach creates unforgettable African safari experiences.Visit our website here: https://wild-eye.com/

Every photographer knows the feeling - you've got hundreds of incredible images from your latest trip, but instead of editing them, you're watching "just one more" Lightroom tutorial. Sound familiar? After years of safari photography and teaching workshops, Gerry shares why the endless search for new techniques might be holding you back from creating your best work. This episode cuts through the noise to reveal an uncomfortable truth: you probably already know enough to edit great images, you just need to stop procrastinating and do the work. Learn why mastering the basics beats knowing exotic tricks, how to break free from tutorial addiction, and why the most powerful tool in Lightroom isn't a new preset or technique - it's simply sitting down and editing with intention.Visit out website at: https://wild-eye.com/

In this episode Johan chats with Donovan, Wild Eye's newest guide, about his move from lodge-based guiding to private safari hosting. Donovan gets real about what excites him most - seeing how animals behave differently across Africa and working alongside local guides without stepping on their toes. They discuss the tricky balance of supporting lodge guides while adding photographic expertise, dealing with long safari hours, and maintaining professional boundaries with guests. Donovan also shares his upcoming Kenya adventure and dream of exploring Mozambique's wild remote areas. A genuine conversation about the realities of safari guiding and what it takes to create memorable experiences for guests.Visit the Wild Eye website here: https://wild-eye.com/

In this episode Gerry tackles the toxic mindset that's plaguing photography communities everywhere: measuring creative worth by external validation instead of personal fulfillment. He explore what "good enough" actually means, why photography was never meant to be a competition, and how social media has warped our relationship with our own work. Too many talented photographers are ready to quit because they haven't won awards or been published, as if these are the only metrics that matter. If you've ever questioned whether your photography matters because you haven't received recognition from strangers, this conversation will challenge you to rediscover why you picked up a camera in the first place.Visit the Wild Eye website here: https://wild-eye.com/

In our latest episode, Johan van Zyl walks you through the incredible experience of our Jaguar of the Pantanal photography safari. He breaks down what it's really like spending eight day tracking these massive cats through Brazil's wetlands and getting those once-in-a-lifetime shots along the riverbanks.For more on this tour: https://wild-eye.com/photographic-travel/jaguars-of-the-pantanal/Visit the Wild Eye website: https://wild-eye.com/

This episode brings you some fresh news about what's coming up for the podcast, plus Gerry wants to hear directly from you about what topics you're dying to have us cover next.Visit the Wild Eye website here: https://wild-eye.com/

In this episode, Johan van Zyl and Michael Laubscher unpack the exhilarating journey to Laikipia, Kenya, to track Giza, the iconic black leopard. They explore the unique chance to witness this elusive cat in her natural habitat, what to anticipate when visiting Laikipia, and practical advice for planning a safari. From guided game drives to Laikipia’s rich wildlife and conservation efforts, this episode offers a roadmap for anyone ready to roll the dice on an unforgettable wildlife adventure.Find our more at: www.wild-eye.com

In this episode Gerry has a conversation with Donovan Cross, the latest addition to the Wild Eye guiding team.You can find Donovan on IG at: http://instagram.com/donovancrossss/Find out more about a Private Safari Experiences here: https://wild-eye.com/private-safaris/

In this episode, Gerry explores the different options for safari experiences and how they vary in their balance between accommodations and wildlife viewing and the tradeoffs between luxury lodges with their amenities versus more rustic camps that might offer better wildlife encounters. What do you think? What, to you, makes a safari great?

In this episode, Andrew sits down with Jacques Smit, Marketing Director of the celebrated private game reserve Sabi Sabi, to uncover the secrets behind unforgettable safari experiences. From luxurious lodges to the heart of conservation and community impact, Jacques shares how these elements come together to create meaningful adventures in the African bush. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to safaris, this episode will ignite your passion for the wild—and inspire your next journey with Wild Eye!Find Sabi Sabi here: https://www.sabisabi.com/Find your next adventure here: https://wild-eye.com/

In this episode, Gerry reveals how mastering the third dimension—changing your physical position up, down, or sideways—transforms ordinary wildlife shots into extraordinary visual narratives. Discover why the few inches you never thought to move might be the only thing standing between you and images that make people stop scrolling.

In this episode, Gerry shares some updates from the last few weeks as well as some changes coming up on the podcast.Sign up for the Wild Eye newsletter here: https://wild-eye.com/join-our-mailing-list/Sign up for the Wild Eye promotions here: https://wild-eye.com/join-our-promotions-mailer/

In this episode, Gerry explores a fascinating thought experiment for photographers: If you could only choose one lens and one destination, what would they be and where would you go? Join him as he shares his personal insights, weighs the creative constraints and possibilities of different focal lengths, and reveals his ultimate choice of lens and location.

In today's episode, we're thrilled to announce our upcoming Wild Eye Mara Camp safari dates! Join Gerry as he breaks down the key differences between our two distinct Mara safari experiences. Whether you're planning ahead or looking for a more immediate adventure, you won't want to miss the special offers we're discussing for both upcoming seasons. Get ready to discover which Wild Eye Mara experience is perfect for your dream African safari.

Join Gerry as he explores the fascinating contrast between simply taking photos and truly experiencing the art of photography. What's the difference between chasing shots and being present in photographic moments? When do we shift from being collectors of images to becoming part of the story we're capturing? In this thought-provoking episode, Gerry delves into how these two approaches shape not only our images but our entire relationship with photography. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this conversation will change how you think about picking up your camera.

In this episode, Gerry dives into the latest AI breakthroughs, asking crucial questions about photography's future and sharing some must-see platforms along the way.

What is your bucket list photographic subject? In this episode Gerry asks " how hard are you willing to work for it?"

In this episode Gerry asks "in your photography getting better?" and shares why you shouldn't just be a passenger on a photo safari.

In this episode Gerry shares some thoughts on why your backgrounds matter in nature photography and how focusing on just the subject can make for one dimensional images.

In this episode Gerry share some thoughts about the experience of travel from Alta, a small town in Northern Norway.

In this episode Gerry shares his five pillars for wildlife photography which you can use to extract more value for your own photographic journey.

In this episode Gerry shares some details on the Wild Eye presentations he recently hosted in the USA as well as some thoughts on iPhone photography.

In this Gerry shares some thoughts on the new Uber Safari that has bene launched and how it compares to the real thing. What do you think?

In this episode Gerry shares some thoughts on why you will be a better wildlife photographer if you considered, and focused on, your entire workflow rather than just one or two of the aspects you feel most comfortable with.

In this episode Gerry asks, when should you leave a wildlife sighting when you're on safari or an expedition?

In this episode Gerry asks whether you're in a photographic rut of competence and shares some thoughts on the Dunning-Kruger effect in wildlife photography.Episode mentioned: https://wildeyepodcast.captivate.fm/episode/499-are-you-photographically-coachable

In this episode Gerry has a conversation Gabby Sykora, the founder of the Young Wildlife Photographers of South Africa.You can connect with Gabby here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabby_sykoraYou can connect with YWP SA here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youngwildlife_photographers_sa

In this episode Gerry shares some thought on how you can 'anchor' yourself on safaris and expeditions. Even though this episode speaks more to guide working in the industry, there is real value for anybody that travels often.

In this episode Gerry shares some thoughts behind using a 1/30 or slower shutter speed for a whole week in the Mara.

In this episode Gerry asks what you would, and could, do differently if you were to start your photographic journey over today.

In episode 500 of the podcast, Gerry shares some thoughts and audio from 13 years ago when him and Andrew started the Wild Eye journey online.

In this episode Gerry shares some thoughts and tips on being photographically coachable and more intentional about your own photographic journey.You can listen to the previous episode on being photographically coachable here: https://wildeyepodcast.captivate.fm/episode/episode-359-are-you-photographically-coachable

In this episode Gerry has a conversation with Max (aka ChatGPT) about technology, AI and how it's affecting the future of ethical wildlife photography.

In this episode Gerry shares some perspective on why it's important not to base your own expectations on travel and photographic influencers on social media.

In this episode Gerry has a conversation with Andrew and they share 5 lessons from the recent wildlife photography seminar they hosted together at Sabi Sabi and Mala Mala.

In this episode Gerry has a conversation with Oliver Lohmeier, the brand manager for Helly Hansen South Africa. You can connect with Helly Hansen SA here:Website: www.hellyhansen.co.za | Mail: [email protected]: +27.12.660.0016 | WhatsApp: 27.61.667.0016Sandton Store: [email protected]

This episode Gerry share some thoughts on camera settings, why you don't need to know all of them as well as how you need to choose the camera mode that works best for you.

In this episode Gerry asks the question: Why do you do wildlife photography?