A Life Behind the Lens
For as long as he can remember, Calvin Kotze has been captivated by the rhythm of the wild the quiet moments before sunrise, the distant roar of lions at dusk, and the delicate balance that defines life in Africa’s wilderness. What began as a childhood fascination grew into a lifelong calling: to capture the natural world with honesty, respect, and artistry.
Today, Calvin is a fine art wildlife photographer, professional guide and educator who leads immersive Photography Tours across South Africa and Southern Africa, helping guests not only see the wild, but feel it through their lenses.
“Photography isn’t just about taking pictures… it’s about slowing down enough to notice what most people overlook.”
— Calvin Kotze
The Journey So Far
Calvin’s story began in the bushveld, where weekends were spent exploring parks and reserves with a camera in hand. Over the years, he honed his craft through thousands of hours in the field, learning to read animal behaviour, predict movement, and capture fleeting expressions that tell deeper stories.
After gaining recognition for his African wildlife photography prints and his emotive portrayal of Africa’s landscapes and species, Calvin transitioned into guiding — merging his love for photography with a passion for teaching others.
His wildlife photography tours now attract travellers and photographers from around the world, all seeking an authentic and educational safari experience.
My Mission
My mission is to empower photographers from complete beginners to seasoned professionals to create images that move, educate, and inspire.
Every workshop, tour, and lesson is built around three core principles:
Respect for Wildlife
Ethical, non-intrusive photography that prioritises animal welfare.
Excellence in Education
Clear, hands-on guidance tailored to your experience level.
Authentic Connection
Meaningful encounters that foster a deeper appreciation for Africa’s wilderness.
I believe that photography is not just an art form, it’s a force for conservation, awareness, and storytelling.
Who My Tours Are For
Nature lovers, creative explorers, and photographers eager to grow. Some are first-time visitors to Africa seeking a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife photographic safari, while others are returning guests refining their technique through animal photography tuition or expanding their art collections.
Regardless of background, each leaves with more than photographs, they leave with a renewed connection to nature and the craft of seeing.
Wildlife Photography Tours
My Photography Tours in Africa take you beyond the typical safari. These small-group experiences are designed for photographers who crave depth early morning light, prime viewing spots, and the freedom to spend extra time with your subject.
Whether it’s tracking a leopard through the bush, capturing the power of a storm rolling over the savanna, or documenting rare bird species, each tour is a journey into Africa’s untamed heart. Calvin personally leads every trip, ensuring guests benefit from his expertise and personalised coaching.
A Philosophy of Patience and Purpose
My approach to wildlife photography is grounded in patience, presence, and purpose. I believe that every great image begins in observation, empathy, and respect.
My guiding philosophy:
Wait for the moment, don’t chase it.
Tell the story, not just the scene.
Leave no trace behind.
This philosophy shapes my art and the way my tours operate. This ensures ethical practices, responsible guiding, and meaningful experiences for both guests and wildlife alike.
Post-Processing Lessons
A great photograph doesn’t end in-camera. Post-Processing Lessons for Wildlife Photography bridge the gap between field and finish teaching you how to turn your raw images into gallery-quality art.
Through step-by-step sessions, you’ll master Lightroom and Photoshop workflows, from tonal adjustments to colour grading and image curation. Whether you join an online class or an in-person editing session, these lessons are ideal for photographers who want to refine their craft and develop a distinctive style.
Fine Art Wildlife Prints
Calvin’s Fine Art Wildlife Photography Prints celebrate Africa’s majestic wildlife through stunning, limited-edition artwork. Each piece is carefully edited, printed, and signed a reflection of Calvin’s philosophy that nature deserves to be seen, remembered, and cherished.
The collection includes Big Five photo prints, birding and wildlife safari images, and African wildlife print collections available for international shipping. Many prints are featured in private homes, lodges, and offices worldwide, bringing the spirit of the African bush into modern spaces.
Sustainability and Conservation
I am committed to keeping our footprint light and our purpose clear.
By choosing Calvin Kotze Photography Tours, you’re helping protect the ecosystems and species that make Africa so extraordinary.
Join Me in the Field
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of being on location, the smell of the bush after rain, the silence before a lion’s roar, the burst of light as the sun breaks the horizon. My tours are crafted to put you in those moments not just as an observer, but as a storyteller.
If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing Africa’s soul through your lens, this is your invitation.
