Samuel Cox

Photos

Based in the Greater Kruger of South Africa, I'm looking to introduce and showcase to other like-minded photographers the beauty that had me fall in love with Africa twenty years ago.

What is your favorite travel memory?

Far too many to simply pick one. But waking up early for sunsets in the wilderness, surrounded by the noises of nature waking up as the sky shifts in colour - that's always a beautiful moment and we're lucky to have those so often here. Otherwise, simply being alongside a beautiful animal and enjoying being in that the moment.

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

Knowledge of animals, ecology, and cultures have hugely increased, as has my ability to teach and mentor. Business approaches, project development techniques and, of course, constantly being able to develop and refine my work as a photographer in every aspect. Beyond that, simply being able to live in another country so vastly different, it's inevitable your outlook and perceptions change.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

The fact that we have return students and volunteers so frequently goes to show the level of impact we have.

The biggest and most affecting comment I had was when someone said that he'd been taking photographs for a long time, but never considered himself as a true photographer. But, thanks to my help and mentorship, he can say confidently and with pride that he now considers himself as one.

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

To be honest, I love my program too much to want to change or leave for anything longer than a short visit. However, I wouldn't mind visiting the Masai Mara project in Kenya to photograph the landscapes and wildlife opportunities available to those who visit.

I very much lead my life with my passion for wildlife and photography, so there would have to be a strong pull in that direction to tempt me away from Kruger.

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

Seeing the profound developments in our volunteers and interns photography, but also in the professional developments my own team makes. Seeing, every single day, unwavering passion for what they do and how that joy and love infects our guests and volunteers - it's impossible not to feel uplifted by that.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

I believe in striving to give the best possible experience you can to your guests. For example, it's not enough that we run photography projects; I want to make sure they're great, with the great opportunities, the best teaching and the photos being taken are being used to the best possible degree to aid conservation.

It comes with having a passion for the field and the knowledge and experience of knowing how to give the best to your guests.