Photography and the Jungle

The jungle can be a mysterious and frightening place. It is a place where wild animals roam without inhibition, where humidity is at an all time high, and where Mother Nature reigns supreme. More importantly, the jungle is a place we humans are at the mercy of a domain where we have absolutely no control over.

However, as daunting as the jungle may seem, it is a place where you can encounter strange animals and plants. It also the home of various hunter-gatherer tribes who still depend on the forest for sustenance. As such, the dark and foreboding jungle presents a wonderful photographic experience for those who are willing to venture into the sea of trees and foliage.

As a photographer, going into the jungle presents a challenge not only to your physical and mental state, but also on the aspects of your photography. In this article, I will highlight several things that you should keep in mind when shooting in the jungle.

Be well-prepared

In the jungle, you obviously don't have the convenience of stopping at a supermarket or a mall to get supplies. Therefore, be sure to be fully equipped before venturing out. Make sure you have everything you need: rations, first aid kit, compass or GPS system, spare batteries, memory cards, portable storage devices etc. Consult a well-experienced outdoorsman for a complete list and advice.

Plan meticulously

Be sure you know where you are headed when going on your jungle adventure. Know when and where you want to take your photographs and get an experienced guide who knows the area well. It helps to hire a person who has good knowledge of the terrain and the animals that are present within the vicinity. Also, devise a contingency plan in case something should go wrong.

Keep your carry-on weight in check

We as photographers tend to carry everything in our equipment arsenal except for the kitchen sink. However, while initially you are able to carry a heavy load, that weight will take its toll as the trek progresses. The last thing you want to do is to straggle behind others (if you are travelling in a group) and become the sole reason of slowing the others down. It is very important to always be in control of your own situation, because when it comes to entering the jungle, you are dealing with your own survival.

To keep your carry-on weight to a minimum, here you have to make several compromises in terms of your photography gear. Whatever your choice of lens and accessories are, you have to bear in mind that first and foremost, safety comes first. You have to be mobile enough to react when you are facing untoward situations.

Respect Mother Nature

Many people seem to think that if they physically fit, they are able to tackle the jungle easily. You have to remember that the forest is a totally strange environment for city dwellers. We are so used to modern conveniences that we are not frequently exposed to the raw element of danger in the jungle. Yes, the danger is very real, be it an encounter with a poisonous snake or a slip off a treacherous ridge. When an accident happens, you have to deal with the possibility that there is no cellphone signal to call for help. The best advice is to be humble and alert when entering the jungle. Respect every slope, every river and every hill you encounter.

Avoid provocation

When shooting photographs in the jungle, take extra precautions not to provoke the animals within the area. Animals can be very protective of their territory, and any signs of danger will make them become agitated and defensive. As such, be prepared for low-light conditions by avoiding flashes and using a fast lens instead. Also, turn off the sound of your camera.

If you are visiting a tribe, do not barge immediately in their settlement with your camera. This might upset some people, especially the children, as there is a possibility they don't encounter outsiders very often. Observe their customs and respect them. Researching about the tribe beforehand can help you to understand their culture. Getting a local guide who is able to act as translator helps a lot. But most importantly, nothing breaks the ice better than a huge friendly smile. When the tribe is comfortable with your presence, then you may introduce your camera and start photographing them gradually.

Protect your gear

The jungle is a very humid environment which can cause damage to your equipment. To protect your gear from moisture, be sure to bring along these items: waterproof sacks, a nylon poncho and anti-humidity packets. Waterproof sacks are simply tightly-knit nylon pouches, that when properly sealed, will prevent its contents from getting wet when submerged in water. Every reputable outdoor shop should have these in stock. When it is raining, a nylon poncho is a better alternative than an umbrella. Wear this over yourself and your bags to guard from splashes. Anti-humidity packets are designed to absorb moisture. Place these in your equipment bag and waterproof sacks to protect your gear from humidity.

Faye Osman is a freelance writer and photographer based in Sarawak, Malaysia. She writes about her thoughts and travels as she journeys around Borneo to immerse herself in local culture.