The Safari Shots Podcast

Chobe River by Houseboat: Wildlife Photography from the Water | The Safari Shots Podcast S02E08

In this episode of The Safari Shots Podcast, we chat about our recent trip to the Chobe River, where we were hosted by Pangolin Photo Safaris aboard their brand-new photography houseboat. Joined by fellow wildlife photographers Villiers Steyn, Mark Dumbleton and Richard van Hagt, we spent three days exploring one of Africa's most productive wildlife destinations from the water. From massive elephant herds and incredible birdlife to unforgettable sunsets and unique photographic opportunities, we share our experiences, favourite sightings, photography highlights, and honest thoughts on the new vessel. If you've ever wondered what it's like photographing wildlife from a dedicated safari houseboat on the Chobe River, this episode is for you. 🎙️ The Safari Shots Podcast is hosted by Panthera Photo Safaris and Mark Dumbleton, where we talk wildlife photography, safaris, conservation, and life in the bush.

This Wasn’t an Easy Episode… (Mashatu, India & More) The Safari Shots Podcast S02E07

In this episode of The Safari Shots Podcast, we look back at some of our recent trips and what made them so special. We start with the 2026 Mashatu emerald season, where the rains transformed the landscape and the wildlife delivered in a big way. From there, we head to India and share highlights from our latest tiger safaris, including some unforgettable sightings and moments in the field. We also chat about what’s coming next for Panthera Photo Safaris and what Villiers has in the pipeline moving forward. And at the end… there’s something we didn’t plan on just yet. Stick around.

Safari Ethics: When Wildlife Photography Goes Too Far. The safari Shots Podcast S02E06

Wildlife photography and safaris are built on a love for animals and wild places. But where do we draw the line between getting the shot and respecting the wildlife? In this episode of The Safari Shots Podcast, we tackle one of the most important and often uncomfortable topics in the safari industry: ethics. We talk about: • When vehicles get too close to animals • The pressure to get the perfect photo • Baiting, blocking and crowding wildlife • Social media’s influence on bad behaviour • The responsibility of guides, photographers and guests Safaris are one of the most powerful ways to connect people with wildlife. But if done poorly, they can also harm the very animals we care about. This episode is an honest discussion from people who work in the industry every day. If you care about wildlife, conservation, and responsible photography, this conversation matters. Listen to The Safari Shots Podcast for real stories from the bush, photography insights, and conversations about conservation and safari life. 

Would you rather? The Safari Shots Podcast S02E05

In this episode of The Safari Shots Podcast, we switch things up and play a safari-themed game of “Would You Rather?”. Expect plenty of laughs, a few tough choices, and some surprisingly honest answers from both of us.
We chat about polar bears and penguins, self driving vs luxury lodges, dream destinations, tricky bush scenarios, and the wildlife experiences we’d pick if we had to choose only one. It’s a fun, easy listen if you love safaris, photography, or just want to hear us argue about ridiculous bush
situations. Let us know your answers in the comments. What would you choose?

AI in Photography: Threat or Tool? | Safari Shots Podcast S02E04

Is Artificial Intelligence a threat to wildlife photography, or just another tool in the kit? In this episode of the Safari Shots Podcast (S02E04), we dive deep into the world of AI in photography — exploring its impact on wildlife photographers, ethics, editing, and the future of creative work. Join Lance van de Vyver and Villiers Steyn as they tackle the big questions: Will AI-generated images devalue real wildlife photography? Can AI help photographers improve their workflow and creativity? Where should the line be drawn between art and manipulation? Whether you’re a wildlife photographer, photography enthusiast, or just curious about AI’s role in creativity, this episode will get you thinking.

Self Drive vs Lodges? Which one is right for you?

In Season 2, Episode 3 of The Safari Shots Podcast, we unpack one of the most common questions travellers face when planning an African adventure: Should you go on a self-drive safari or book an all-inclusive lodge safari? Join your hosts from Panthera Photo Safaris and The Safari Expert as we compare these two popular safari styles — the pros, cons, and key considerations to help you choose the best option for your next trip to Africa. We cover everything from budgets and flexibility to wildlife sightings and photographic opportunities. Whether you’re planning your first Kruger safari or looking to level up your experience in Botswana, Namibia, or East Africa, this episode is packed with real-world advice, personal stories, and a few funny bush tales along the way. In this episode: What is a self-drive safari, and who is it best suited for? The perks of lodge safaris — from expert guides to five-star comforts Cost breakdowns and hidden expenses to consider Which option gives you better wildlife photography chances? Our top safari tips for both styles When to combine both for the ultimate African adventure This episode is ideal for: First-time safari travellers Wildlife photographers planning their next photo safari Budget-conscious adventurers Luxury safari seekers Anyone curious about what it’s really like out in the African bush

Mark Dumbelton - Our First Guest Speaker

In this episode we speak to Mark Dumbelton, one of South Africa's best wildlife photographers.

Join us in Mashatu in February 2026!

Join, Lance, Villiers and Anna Nagel for a once-in-a-lifetime green season safari in Botswana's Mashatu Game Reserve in February 2026. In this podcast, Lance and Villiers discusses the pros and cons of going on safari during the wet season, focussing on Mashatu specifically.

Photographing Jaguars in the Pantanal

In this episode, Villiers asks Lance a series of questions about what it's like to go on a photographic safari to Brazil's Pantanal to photograph jaguars and all the other amazing creatures that live there.

Trekking Chimpanzees & Gorillas in RWANDA!

Lance and Villiers share their mountain gorilla and chimpanzee trekking experiences in Rwanda, focussing on Volcanoes and Nyungwe National Parks respectively.