Madagascar Photo Tour with Pierre Koval: Andasibe, Ankanin’ny Nofy, Tsingy, and Baobab Avenue
Photo Journey with Pierre Koval
Madagascar, just the sound of this word promises unique experiences in an unknown and exotic world.
What better way to capture this than with your camera.
Join us to discover fascinating animal species, breathtaking landscapes, and a colorful culture that is unlike anywhere else in the world.
A photo journey to Madagascar is a dream that, with the right partners by your side, can easily become a reality.
The combination makes the difference: English-speaking tour guides with years of experience in Madagascar, who prioritize comfort and security, and experienced nature photographers who have captured various subjects from around the world and are eager to share their skills and knowledge.
Throughout the journey, you will work with Pierre Koval to develop professional techniques for capturing the perfect shot through theory and practical workshops, as well as numerous image reviews.
Workshop Overview
Theory:
– Animal photography
– Landscape photography
Practice:
Animal photography
Landscape photography
Image reviews
Workshop details and content
YourPhoto Mentor Pierre Koval
Pierre Koval, your photo mentor, will demonstrate different approaches, and in small groups, techniques and methods can be varied and analyzed in detail.
Being able to immerse yourself in the work of two different photographers on a photo journey to Madagascar is unique and offers you perfect opportunities.
Benefit from our experiences as biologists in dealing with the unique wildlife of Madagascar. We will show you interesting behaviors and characteristics of the animal species, allowing you to capture them naturally with the necessary finesse in your photos.
Whether it's lemurs, reptiles, or insects, understanding the species is often the key to capturing the perfect image . This allows us more time to focus on the details and nuances of animal photography.
Whether it's telephoto or macro photography, we will dedicate time to both in various practical and theoretical workshops.
As diverse as the wildlife of Madagascar is, so is the landscape that they inhabit.
WhatWill BePhotographedandEdited
We will take you to some of the most spectacular regions of the island, where we will explore various aspects of landscape photography together.
As the only explicit photo travel provider, we offer the opportunity to explore the remote Andringitra Massif with its perfect conditions for landscape and astrophotography.
Nights under the Milky Way in this magnificent setting will be unforgettable. As a wonderful contrast, we will also tackle photographing the beaches of the East Coast.
In addition to long exposures, filter photography, and astrophotography, we will also cover their editing process.
But don't worry, we won't spend hours on the computer. We both believe in capturing the best image possible at the moment of shooting.
However, minor adjustments are essential in digital photography, and we will show you efficient and useful methods to enhance your images.
In addition to the nature photography disciplines of landscape, animal, and macro photography, we will also have the opportunity to explore aspects of travel photography related to people and culture. With the help of native Malagasy speakers accompanying our journey, we will effortlessly gain insights into the life and culture of the local population and the various tribes of Madagascar.
Experience with us a fantastic country, with its rich nature and friendly people, unlike anywhere else in the world.
Services
Services included in the base price
– Complete planning and logistics
– English-speaking support and tour guide
– 1 experienced workshop leader/mentor
– High-quality vehicles with driver and fuel included
– All accommodations in specified hotels
– Breakfast meals included
– Transfers, taxes, and specified excursions in the program
Services not included in the base price
– Lunch, dinner, drinks, and other personal meals
– Tips and all personal expenses
– Entrance fees to national parks and private parks
– Additional local guides and optional leisure activities
– Airfare for international and domestic flights
– Flight taxes and airport fees
– Travel health insurance and trip cancellation insurance
– Visa costs (currently not applicable)
Day 1: Arrival in Antananarivo
After completing the visa formalities, you will be picked up by one of our guides or directly by us at the airport. Depending on the arrival time, either a hotel transfer and well-deserved rest are on the agenda, but if time allows, various activities will also be offered.
Stay at the "Villa Sibylle"
Day 2: Antananarivo to Andasibe
Theory Workshop Wildlife Photography (1): Telephoto and Super-telephoto Photography in the Rainforest (Andasibe):
Choosing the right focal length is essential in wildlife photography. It's not always a case of "the longer, the better". We will explore the visual effects of different focal lengths and their influence on image composition and storytelling. How can you manipulate focal length, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of long focal lengths in terms of composition? How do you handle telephoto and super-telephoto lenses in the field? We will also discuss different autofocus modes, AF sensors, operating modes, light metering in extreme conditions, and capturing series of shots.
Day 3: Lemurs in Andasibe
Practical Workshop Animal Photography (1): Telephoto and Super Telephoto Photography in the Rainforest (Andasibe):
In small groups of 4-6 participants, we will apply the knowledge from the previous day in the field and provide individual coaching to deepen your skills. We will be there to assist you throughout the day to help you master even the most challenging photographic situations. There will be opportunities to test super telephoto lenses with Canon mount for specific shooting situations. The main focus in the morning and afternoon will be the various lemur species, especially the largest ones: the Indris.
Practical Workshop Animal Photography (2): Telephoto and Macro Photography at Night in the Rainforest (Andasibe):
After a short briefing, small groups of 4-6 participants will embark on a night excursion. The goal is to capture the diverse reptile and amphibian species of the rainforest. Different flash techniques will be demonstrated through examples, offering an exciting approach to exploring the rainforest at night. There will be opportunities to test macro lenses with Canon mount for specific shooting situations.
Day 4: Andasibe Rainforest
Wildlife Photography Workshop (3): Telephoto and Super Telephoto Photography in the Rainforest (Andasibe):
Great nature and wildlife photography thrives on the opportunities that present themselves and those that one must work for.
So we set off again to photograph a variety of lemurs and reptiles in the rainforest.
We are here to assist throughout, helping you master even the most challenging photographic situations. There will be the opportunity to test super telephoto lenses with Canon mounts for individual shooting situations.
Wildlife Photography Workshop: Telephoto and Macro Photography at Night in the Rainforest (Andasibe):
At night, not all cats are gray. We delve back into the nighttime rainforest and work on our flash technique.
Our goal is to capture the many reptile and amphibian species of the rainforest.
Day 5: Andasibe
Image Review: Wildlife Photography (Andasibe):
Let's review together your best work from the past few days and discuss the results constructively on a big screen. Constructive criticism is what really helps you improve. What is already going well, what can you still work on in the coming days, and most importantly, how? Solution-oriented approaches will take your photography to the next level, and we will also have time to learn some editing steps and possibilities in practice.
Theory Workshop Landscape Photography: Long Exposure and Filter Photography (East Coast):
Landscape photography requires peace and time. We will first focus on the relevant technical aspects such as focal length, focusing, camera modes, tripod, exposure assessment via histogram, possibilities of using filters, and then move on to creative aspects such as composition, leading lines, long exposure.
Day 6: Andasibe-Ankanin’ny Nofy
Landscape Photography Practical Workshop: Sunrise and Sunset by the River and Sea (East Coast):
In small groups of 4-6 participants, we will apply the knowledge gained from the previous day in the field and deepen it through individual coaching sessions. We are here to assist you throughout the day, helping you master even the most challenging photographic situations. We will start at the blue hour by the sea, capturing the colorful, gentle hues of the sunrise combined with wonderfully soft water. For sunset, we will focus on reflections at the Canal de Pangalanes, setting up our tripods for various perspectives.
Photo Excursion on the Canal de Pangalanes (East Coast):
From the river, you will have a unique view of the landscape and wildlife. We will embark on a relaxed photo safari along the Canal de Pangalanes. Whether you have your telephoto lens ready or simply want to enjoy nature at a leisurely pace, the Canal offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
Day 7: Dreaming by the Water
Landscape Photography Workshop: Sunrise and Sunset by the River and Sea Part 2 (East Coast):
Each Day is different, just like each sunrise and sunset. We will take advantage of the breathtaking location to come up with new ideas for pictures and experiment with exposure time and light to create different looks.
We will explore both the coast of the Indian Ocean and the mangroves of the Canal de Pangalan.
Wildlife Photography Workshop: Telephoto and Macro Photography in the Wildlife Reserve (East Coast):
In small groups of 2-6 participants, we will roam the private reserve directly by the Canal and have the opportunity to photograph numerous representatives of the Malagasy wildlife, such as lemurs and reptiles.
We will refine your shooting techniques and implement interesting picture ideas.
Day 8: Dreamy Day – Antananarivo
Photo Review: Landscape and Wildlife Photography
Join us as we review your best works from the past few days and discuss the results constructively on a large screen. Constructive criticism is what truly helps you improve. What is already working well, what can you still work on in the coming days, and most importantly, how? Solution-oriented approaches will take your photography to the next level, and we will also have time to learn some editing techniques and possibilities together.
Day 9: Antananarivo-Antsirabe
Theory workshop on wildlife photography and macro shots
We take a closer look. Magnification scales in the macro range open up an exciting world that one must know the pitfalls of in order to skillfully showcase it. What technical hurdles need to be overcome? Image composition in the microcosm. Less is more: setting targeted focus points. Consciously utilizing different lighting situations.
Day 10: From Antsirabe to Kirindy
Enjoy a long car ride to the dry forest and the Avenue of Baobabs,
Join a practical workshop on landscape photography, focusing on telephoto and macro photography as we head west towards the Baobab Alley. End the day with night photography in Kirindy.
After an early breakfast, we will head west and drive through the Bongolava Mountains towards Miandrivazo (250 km). Along the way, you can observe gold miners in Diavolana.
Enjoy lunch in Miandrivazo, one of the hottest places in Madagascar! Here, the Mahajilo River flows, later known as the Tsiribihina River, one of the most important rivers in Madagascar. We will then continue our journey on the well-maintained highway through a savannah-like landscape down to Kirindy, where we will arrive in the late afternoon.
Day 11: Kirindy to Tsingy of Bemaraha
Drive from Kirindy to Bekopaka
Practical workshop on landscape photography: night and astro panoramas (Tsingy):
After dinner, we will now combine our newly acquired panorama skills with astrophotography. The low light pollution at the Tsingy and the absence of the moon in the early night hours allow us to capture the Milky Way stretching across the sky from one end of the horizon to the other in a panorama. Of course, we will be here the whole time to provide guidance and assistance in mastering this photographically challenging task. Focusing at night? Earth's rotation and exposure time? Stacking and stitching?
Days 12 and 13: Tsingy von Bemaraha
Practical workshop on animal photography: Telephoto and macro photography in Tsingy von Bemaraha National Park
We will explore the national park in small groups of 4-6 participants. For telephoto photography, we will search for lemurs, birds, or insects, while combing through the leaf litter to find dwarf chameleons, perfect subjects to improve our focus stacking skills.
We will also practice these skills on various plants and landscapes.
Other workshop contents include composition and design with wide aperture.
For specific shooting situations, there will be an opportunity to test macro and super telephoto lenses with Canon mounts.
Practical workshop on landscape photography: Panoramas and sunsets
We will take advantage of the views from the rock plateaus during our hike through this national park to combine filter use in landscape photography with panorama techniques.
When the golden evening sun bathes the landscape's boulders in golden light, our sensors will rejoice.
Day 14: Bekopaka to Tsangajoly
Photo Review: Macro and Wildlife Photography
The relatively unknown private reserve of Tsangajoly is located between Bekopaka and Morondava.
Tsangajoly is a Ramsar reserve with 134 bird species, 40 of which are endemic.
Some of the most interesting species include the Madagascar fish eagle, the Humblot's heron, and the white-faced whistling duck.
This destination is particularly appealing for ornithologists and bird photographers, offering a unique on-site experience.
Our solution-oriented approaches will take your photography to the next level, and we will also have time to explore some editing techniques and possibilities.
Day 15 - Tsangajoly Reserve
This morning, we wake up before dawn to sit at a table set near the Baobabs and enjoy the sunrise over the Menabe plains.
Just listen and take the binoculars to realize that we are not alone. Grey-headed Lovebirds, Newtonia brunneicauda, Newton's Kestrel, both species of Vasa Parrot, Crested Coua, and many others will enjoy the show.
After this early breakfast, we will reach the West Coast by boat in the Tsiribihina Delta and visit a Vezo village, a sea-faring nomadic people.
We will have a picnic on the beach before returning to the lodge to get the car and do some birdwatching at sunset. We will stay a few moments after sunset to photograph the sand dunes under the stars.
Return to the lodge at the beginning of the night and free evening.
Day 16: Tsangajoly to MorondavaFree Day (Morondava):
Today, our journey takes us back to Kirindy and the Baobab Alley.
Photo Review: "Best of" and feedback:
To wrap up our time together, we will review your best work from the past two weeks and discuss the results constructively on a large screen.
Receiving constructive criticism is what truly helps us grow.
How has your style of photography evolved in the past 2 weeks?
What is still unclear? What is the next step?
How can I apply the knowledge I have gained back home?
Solution-oriented approaches will elevate your photography to the next level, and we will also have time to explore some editing techniques and possibilities.
Day 17 – Morondava to Antananarivo (Domestic Flight)
Return flight to Antananarivo and then depending on arrival time.
Photo Review: Macro and Astrophotography:
We will review together your best works from the past few days and discuss the results constructively on a big screen.
Constructive criticism is what truly helps you improve.
What should you focus on in the future?
Clarifying any open questions?
Solution-oriented approaches will take your photography to the next level, and we will also have time to look at some editing steps and possibilities as examples.
Day 18: Antananarivo and Surroundings
Free Day (Tana):
After two weeks of looking through the viewfinder, it's time on the day of departure to take in the country and its people without the camera.
There are various excursion options available such as the former royal palace of Madagascar: The Rova, a crocodile farm, a lemur park, etc. Of course, you can also use the time to relax and prepare calmly for your return flight.
Image Review: "Best of" and feedback:
Finally, we will review your best works from the past two weeks together and discuss the results constructively on a large screen.
What really helps you improve is constructive criticism.
How has your photography style evolved in the past 2 weeks?
What is still unclear? What's next?
How do I apply the knowledge gained at home?
Solution-oriented approaches will take your photography to the next level, and we will also have time to look at some editing steps and possibilities.
Airport transfer depending on scheduled flight time.
Notes on Nature Photography
All photo spots, locations, and workshop content are carefully planned based on our extensive experience as nature photographers and travelers in Madagascar.
However, the factor of nature in nature photography remains somewhat unpredictable. Therefore, we reserve the right to make changes to the schedule and order of workshops in exceptional cases.
For example, if the weather conditions do not allow for certain landscape shots on the planned day, if routes are impassable, or if certain species of wildlife are not to be found on that particular day.
We have built in enough flexibility in the timing and alternative locations for both animal and landscape photography workshops, so that all content can be covered and practiced in extreme cases.
We look forward to welcoming you and creating unforgettable days in Madagascar.
Price Starts at
3850
Tour Duration
18
OFFER id
UAM-49
Tour Details
“Embark on an immersive Photography trip to Madagascar with expert photographer, Pierre Koval-Osten. Explore unique landscapes and diverse wildlife of locations like Kirindy and Tsingy de Bemaraha. Develop your photography skills under Pierre’s guidance, experience hands-on workshops on animal and landscape photography, and gain exclusive access to exotic and remote regions. This journey promises enriching cultural encounters and breathtaking footprints of Madagascar’s natural world.”
