At Penda, we believe the best images come from genuine connection – with people, with wildlife, with the story behind each moment. That belief inspires our photography volunteer opportunities. Whether you’re drawn to wildlife, conservation, or humanitarian work – these photography volunteer programs and internships give you the chance to explore incredible destinations, learn from professional photographers, and use your camera to support important grassroots causes.
As a volunteer photographer, you step directly into the day-to-day work of conservation and community projects. You’re not just practicing photography; you’re contributing to real assignments. Capture wildlife conservation initiatives or document grassroots community or NGO work in close-knit communities, all while gaining hands-on photography experience and building a meaningful portfolio.
Our photography volunteer programs abroad combine travel, skill development, and purpose. Whether you’re expanding your portfolio, exploring a new direction in your work, or looking to tell stories that matter, we’ll support you with expert mentorship and meaningful photographic opportunities. Take a look at our programs below and find the story you want to help tell.
Explore what it's like to work as a wildlife photographer.
Learn about nonprofit photography and document the work of inspiring social impact initiatives
Experience this iconic destination in a unique way.
Aug 19 - 29, 2026
Aug 18 - 28, 2027
Step into the shoes of a wildlife photographer.
Regular Start Dates
Min. 8 Weeks
Develop your skills in wildlife photography and work on conservation projects in Zimbabwe.
Venture to Kruger and make your photography matter.
Regular Start Dates
Min. 4 Weeks
Our photo tours and safaris will take you to the right place, at the right time, to get that epic shot. You'll be guided by a professional photographer, who will help you take your photography to the next level, and we keep our trips exclusive by traveling in small groups. Whether it's in Kenya's sprawling savannahs, Yellowstone's snowy interior, or the jungles of India, your journey will be filled with photography magic.
Why travel with usConservation photography can be used to inspire change by visually communicating the stories of the wildlife, as well as the organizations advocating for their protection. The saying, “a picture is worth a thousand words,” rings true, but it’s important to learn how the right image is needed to be able to engage the community.
Find out more about the ins and outs of conservation photography.
A conservation photographer works closely with conservation organizations to aid their initiatives through the art of photography. You’ll be documenting their work, going on expeditions, and will even have the chance to engage in hands-on conservation work.
Our conservation projects focus on wildlife photography. If you’re interested, read more about why you should become a wildlife photography volunteer.
To put simply, conservation photography is photography that focuses on important conservation initiatives, such as wildlife conservation. Conservation photography can be used to tell visual stories of conservation work, as well as conservation issues, that could aid organizations and charities with their engagement.
There are countless reasons for you to visit Victoria Falls that don’t include the breathtaking scenery of the natural wonder. The largest waterfall in the world, Victoria Falls offers a variety of activities, such as bungee jumping and white rafting, which is the perfect place for adrenaline junkies and photographers alike. The town of Victoria Falls is also a great location for wildlife viewing, as there are a variety of national parks that offer game drives.
Zimbabwe has 16 different languages that are spoken, but there are 3 languages that are the most widely spoken, while the rest only have a small fraction of the population that speaks those languages. The primary languages that you’ll encounter are Shona and Ndebele, as well as English, which is the Lingua Franca of Zimbabwe.
There are countless reasons for you to visit Victoria Falls that don’t include the breathtaking scenery of the natural wonder. The largest waterfall in the world, Victoria Falls offers a variety of activities, such as bungee jumping and white rafting, which is the perfect place for adrenaline junkies and photographers alike. The town of Victoria Falls is also a great location for wildlife viewing, as there are a variety of national parks that offer game drives.
Zimbabwe offers outstanding wildlife opportunities all-year round, making the best time to visit a matter of preference. A good time to visit Zimbabwe, especially for wildlife photography, is from May to October. This is the dry, winter season, when the temperature cools down and there is hardly any rainfall. Wildlife can be easily spotted due to sparse vegetation, and there is less of a risk of malaria during this period.
Depending on where you’re headed for a cultural photography tour, you can expect different experiences based on the provided itineraries of the trips. Regardless of your destination, you’ll discover unique cultures, full of photographic opportunities, as well as have the chance to engage with local communities.
Yes! Our team has extensive knowledge and years of experience in the travel industry. We dedicate ourselves to create the best itineraries possible while putting your safety first the entire time.
What does it mean to be a humanitarian photographer? What's involved, what is the impact you can make, and who is it for?
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