Pusetso shares anecdotes from her recent photographic adventures in Chobe, including the rare sighting of cheetahs on an Impala hill—an occurrence that left her, and her clients, delighted. Her deep knowledge of the Chobe National Park enriches the storytelling, offering a vivid depiction of her life as a safari guide.

The podcast dives into the difficult task of selecting images for a personal gallery, a recurring segment for guests in the show. Pusetso discusses the sentimental value of her photographs, ranging from her early works to more recent captures, and notes how these snapshots narrate her growth as a photographer.

One of the highlighted images is of a yellow-billed stork framed against a backdrop of giraffes amidst a Chobe sunset. Pusetso details the technical and creative process behind capturing such a dynamic shot, underscoring her ability to adapt quickly and capture the essence of the moment.

Pusetso recounts her journey into the field, beginning as an intern at Pangolin and evolving into a full-time photo host post-pandemic, a move that defied expectations in Botswana’s cultural landscape. She emphasizes the need for persistence, patience, and authenticity, especially as a guide facing clients who have been photographing longer than she has been alive.

Pusetso shares invaluable advice from her mentor, Janine: patience is key. She urges new photographers to enjoy the process and warns against rushing mastery at the cost of losing enjoyment in the craft.

The conversation moves towards the artistic side of photography and post-production, where Pusetso reflects on editing as an extension of creative expression rather than cheating. She highlights the role of technology in enhancing images and discusses the balance between enhancing a photograph and maintaining its authenticity.

The episode concludes with a shared admiration for photographer Malini Chandrasekar. Pusetso selects a mesmerizing autumn scene featuring a squirrel, noting its unique allure compared to Botswana’s landscapes, and discussing the broader wildlife photography community’s power to connect and inspire.

As the episode wraps up, Pusetso envisions her humble dwelling in a world surrounded by puffins, a dream fueled by her insatiable passion for photographing wildlife unusual to her usual environment.

This episode of the Pangolin Podcast illuminates Pusetso Nteta’s pivotal role in wildlife photography, offering insights not only into her professional achievements but also her profound love for the wild. Aspiring photographers and wildlife enthusiasts can find inspiration in Pusetso’s story, a testament to dedication and the pursuit of one’s passion against all odds.

For more episodes and to dive deeper into the world of wildlife photography, subscribe to the Pangolin Podcast and join our community of passionate explorers and photographers.