Leopards are the silent stalkers of the African bush. They have an alluring presence and are highly photogenic; today we honour their striking beauty and the magnificent photographs they help us create. While they face numerous threats to their survival, conservation efforts and increased awareness help ensure that these iconic big cats continue to roam the African bush for generations to come. 

Famous for their stealth and strength, they are fascinating big cats, with their striking rosette spots and distinctly powerful build . Seeing a leopard draped over the branches of a large tree, resting its eyes as the world is moving beneath, makes for some iconic photographs, and spotting one, is a thrilling experience.

If you’re sitting at a sighting on your self drive safari, like for example in the Kruger National Park, you are bound to the roads of the national park. You need to make the most of the moment, be ready with your camera and video gear and make sure you position yourself correctly. Don’t situate yourself too close to the sighting because when the leopard has had enough of all of the cars, it will get up and move… hopefully in your direction! You want to be able to capture the leopard from afar and up close.

Male leopard on the S26 in the Kruger National Park.

If you ever have the opportunity to experience a photographic safari, you’ll be able to enjoy close encounters that take you deep into the bush. These trained photographic safari guides have special permission to follow the animals through the bushveld to give you once-in-a-lifetime sightings and photographic opportunities. Villiers Steyn, The safari expert, has guided many such safaris, delivering incredible sightings for clients. 

We want to see your leopard photos – share with us on Facebook Community or Instagram using #odpshutters.

According to the Safari Expert Mashatu Game Reserve in Botswana certainly is one of the best places in the world to see and photograph leopards. Check out his Instagram for more incredible content.