Take sides

In Africa, soft, overcast light is the exception rather than the rule, so the direction of the sunlight, which can be quite intense even early in morning and late in the afternoon, is allimportant. Lou favours low front-lighting as it keeps shadows at bay, and can provide a subtle catchlight in subject’s eyes. Side-lighting can be used to reveal texture, but you need to be aware of shadows. Backlighting is an option, too, either to provide a rimlight, or to silhouette an animal with an instantly recognisable profile, like an elephant, against a sunset (see this issue’s cover shot).