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Photography Volunteering

Wildlife photography volunteer projects, wildlife photography and conservation internships, and humanitarian photography workshops

Immerse yourself in the African wilderness and become a wildlife photographer on one of our photography volunteer projects. You’ll get to improve your skills through workshops by a professional and go out and photograph wildlife on a daily basis. The opportunities vary per program, but you can expect to photograph big cats, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and much more. You’ll also have a chance to aid conservation efforts by joining hands-on projects, and learn about the role photography plays in the protection of wildlife. Our programs blend wildlife photography and conservation to provide a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

 

You can also go one step further and choose our photography internship. As a wildlife photography intern on this program, you’ll improve your photography skills, build an extensive portfolio of images, and learn about what it takes to work as a wildlife photographer.

 

Or, if you’re driven by social impact, check out our humanitarian photography program. This offers passionate photographers the unique opportunity to learn about documentary photography in a nonprofit context, and put their skills into practice by photographing grassroots NGOs in African communities. 

Photography Volunteer Programs

Humanitarian Photography Workshop, South Africa

Humanitarian Photography Workshop, South Africa

Humanitarian

Learn about nonprofit photography and document the work of inspiring social impact initiatives

May 4 - 18, 2025
3750
EXPLORE
Maasai Mara Wildlife Photography & Conservation Workshop

Maasai Mara Wildlife Photography & Conservation Workshop

African Big Five, Wildlife

Experience the Maasai Mara – one of the most exclusive African safari destinations – in a

Jul 13 – Aug 25, 2025

Join for 2 – 6 weeks

2745
EXPLORE
Wildlife Photography Internship, South Africa

Wildlife Photography Internship, South Africa

Wildlife

South Africa's Greater Kruger is a perfect destination for wildlife photographers.

Regular Start Dates

Min. 8 Weeks

6455
EXPLORE
Wildlife Photography and Conservation Program, Victoria Falls

Wildlife Photography and Conservation Program, Victoria Falls

Wildlife

Develop your skills in wildlife photography and work on conservation projects in Zimbabwe.

Regular Start Dates
2195
EXPLORE
Wildlife Photography & Conservation Volunteer Project, South Africa

Wildlife Photography & Conservation Volunteer Project, South Africa

Wildlife

Make your photography matter with our wildlife photography project in the Greater Kruger.

Regular Start Dates

Min. 4 Weeks

4155
EXPLORE

At Penda, we're all about creating incredible photographic opportunities.

Our photo tours and safaris will take you to the right place, at the right time, to get that epic shot. You'll be guided by a professional photographer, who will help you take your photography to the next level, and we keep our trips exclusive by traveling in small groups. Whether it's in Kenya's sprawling savannahs, Yellowstone's snowy interior, or the jungles of India, your journey will be filled with photography magic.

Why travel with us

Volunteering FAQs

How to create images that inspire change
Conservation photography can be used to inspire change by visually communicating the stories of the wildlife, as well as the organizations advocating for their protection. The saying, “a picture is worth a thousand words,” rings true, but it’s important to learn how the right image is needed to be able to engage the community. Find out more about the ins and outs of conservation photography.
What does a conservation photographer do?
A conservation photographer works closely with conservation organizations to aid their initiatives through the art of photography. You’ll be documenting their work, going on expeditions, and will even have the chance to engage in hands-on conservation work. Our conservation projects focus on wildlife photography. If you’re interested, read more about why you should become a wildlife photography volunteer.
What is conservation photography?
To put simply, conservation photography is photography that focuses on important conservation initiatives, such as wildlife conservation. Conservation photography can be used to tell visual stories of conservation work, as well as conservation issues, that could aid organizations and charities with their engagement. 
Why Visit Victoria Falls?
There are countless reasons for you to visit Victoria Falls that don’t include the breathtaking scenery of the natural wonder. The largest waterfall in the world, Victoria Falls offers a variety of activities, such as bungee jumping and white rafting, which is the perfect place for adrenaline junkies and photographers alike. The town of Victoria Falls is also a great location for wildlife viewing, as there are a variety of national parks that offer game drives. 
What language is spoken in Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe has 16 different languages that are spoken, but there are 3 languages that are the most widely spoken, while the rest only have a small fraction of the population that speaks those languages. The primary languages that you’ll encounter are Shona and Ndebele, as well as English, which is the Lingua Franca of Zimbabwe. 
Why Visit Victoria Falls?
There are countless reasons for you to visit Victoria Falls that don’t include the breathtaking scenery of the natural wonder. The largest waterfall in the world, Victoria Falls offers a variety of activities, such as bungee jumping and white rafting, which is the perfect place for adrenaline junkies and photographers alike. The town of Victoria Falls is also a great location for wildlife viewing, as there are a variety of national parks that offer game drives.  
When is the best time to go to Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe offers outstanding wildlife opportunities all-year round, making the best time to visit a matter of preference. A good time to visit Zimbabwe, especially for wildlife photography, is from May to October. This is the dry, winter season, when the temperature cools down and there is hardly any rainfall. Wildlife can be easily spotted due to sparse vegetation, and there is less of a risk of malaria during this period.
What can I expect from a Photography Internship?
Our photography internships provide a platform for you to expand your horizons with photography, getting you involved with impactful projects to enrich your photography with purpose. Our internships encompass a variety of experiences, with an emphasis on conservation and humanitarian work. Hence, it’s important to choose the right photography internship based on you interests.
How do I apply for an internship?
If you're ready to apply for one of our internships, contact us. We’ll help you with the application process, as well as any other questions you may have about us!
What can I expect from a cultural photography tour?
Depending on where you’re headed for a cultural photography tour, you can expect different experiences based on the provided itineraries of the trips. Regardless of your destination, you’ll discover unique cultures, full of photographic opportunities, as well as have the chance to engage with local communities.
Is going on a Photo Safari safe?
Yes! Our team has extensive knowledge and years of experience in the travel industry. We dedicate ourselves to create the best itineraries possible while putting your safety first the entire time.

Wildlife Photography Tips from a Pro

We’ve compiled some wildlife photography tips by Alan Hewitt, a UK-based wildlife photographer, conservationist, writer, and workshop leader. Because we all know photographing wildlife isn't easy!

READ MORE
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