Last Friday, I had the pleasure of visiting Zoo Planckendael in Mechelen, Belgium, with my trusty Nikon Z8 and the versatile Nikkor 180-600mm lens. This zoo, known for its spacious enclosures and diverse wildlife, provided the perfect setting for capturing some stunning images of nature's finest creatures.
A Photographer’s Paradise
Zoo Planckendael is divided into different continents, each showcasing unique species in naturalistic environments. From the majestic big cats of Asia to the vibrant bird species of South America, every corner of the zoo offered something exciting to capture. The variety of habitats made for an immersive experience, both as a visitor and as a photographer.
Capturing Wildlife Up Close
Armed with the Nikon Z8, I was able to shoot with incredible precision and detail. The Nikkor 180-600mm lens allowed me to zoom in on subjects without disturbing them, making it an ideal choice for wildlife photography.
Among my favorite captures from the day were:
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A playful young Crested Macaque , swinging gracefully from branch to branch, and his mother watching it and keeping it save.
The little hand that came peeping through mom's fur when it was startled by a visitor knocking on the window -
The storks are already building nests and getting ready to mate.
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The piercing gaze of a big cat, radiating both power and elegance.
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A herd of elephants, calmly moving through their enclosure, their textured skin catching the golden light.
The Magic of Zoo Photography
Photographing animals in a zoo setting comes with its own set of challenges. Harsh lighting, glass reflections, and wire fences can sometimes hinder a perfect shot. However, with the right angles and patience, I was able to work around these obstacles and create some striking images.
Using a longer focal length, I could blur out distracting backgrounds and achieve a natural-looking setting, making the animals appear as though they were in the wild. The fast autofocus of the Nikon Z8 helped me track moving subjects with ease, ensuring sharp and detailed shots.
Final Thoughts
My visit to Zoo Planckendael was both inspiring and rewarding. It reaffirmed my passion for wildlife photography and the endless possibilities it presents. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a seasoned professional, this zoo offers an abundance of photographic opportunities.
Stay tuned for more of my wildlife adventures, and feel free to share your thoughts on my captures. Have you visited Zoo Planckendael? What was your favorite animal encounter? Let me know in the comments!
All the pictures were added to my "2025 Zoo Planckendael" album".
Equipment used for this shoot:
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