Search Results

When I became a father, I knew nothing about it, but at the same time I was not worried about this as with everything new, you just take it one moment at a time and deal with it step by step. But I still wanted to do my research and see what we can learn from psychologists and studies about how to be a good father. The typical Christian view on parenting is summed up in one sentence, spare the rod, spoil the child. Unfortunately this is normally taken completely out of context and parents just assume this means to hit your children, discipline them continuously, control them at times, give them no respect, etc. I grew up with this type of parenting style and it lead to endless problems. So the first thing I did when I became a father was to determine what style of parenting worked best, and it is called Gentle/Authoritative parenting. It basically involves discussing everything with your children, setting boundaries, doesn't involve spanking, requires patience and love. This sounds more like a Christian approach that Jesus would approve of than smack your kids and control them. There are multiple stories that back this up, the obvious being the prodigal son. This is probably an allegory, but it can apply to raising children. You can educate, discipline your children, put down boundaries etc., but if they want to do something that's bad for them, they will find a way. Even if means they want to get away from you doing it, let them. They need to be let go if they are adamant they want to get away. Keep the door open for their return when they are ready. Its the same for anyone who wants to change their lives, they need to decide to do it. if they don't and have to be forced into it, its not a true change. You can read more on the websites below: Very well Family Cleveland Clinic CNBC So what makes a great father? So what makes someone a great father? It has been proven that Children with Active Involved Fathers are less likely to to experience depression, anxiety, have higher income and better education. Unfortunately, the instances of families staying together are becoming less and less. Single unwed mothers are on the rise, accounting for 40% of all births according to a study done in a video we will add below. What determines in the father as to whether he will be a good father or not, comes down to the level of confidence he has in his ability to be a parent. Asking questions of themselves like will be a good role model, can others look up to me, are questions they constantly ask themselves. In todays society, men have been socialized to solve problems, and determine their outcomes based on the performance they are achieving. This has resulted in men being socialized away from showing love in stressful moments, not basing it on their performance, but loving your child in difficult moments. This requires us to be sacrificial, vulnerable, and show love. How do we achieve this? So how do we go about this, how do we break the cycle of what our parents did. The first thing suggested is to reflect on your relationship with your father. Mine was non existent, he had no idea on how to be a father, showed no interest till the point I just did not want to spend time with him anymore when I turned thirteen or so. After that it was pretty much a distant relationship, we spoke as acquaintances, not father and son. Then the second stop is forgiveness. Forgiveness is the gateway to confidence. When I had my son, it made me start questioning why my father did what he did in that way. I eventually realized he did not know any better, and yes he could have taken the time to learn it, but he might not have known how to show love. This lead to my forgiveness of him. Forgive them Lord, for they do not know what they do. This part is for the mothers. Men need to be reinforced, they need to be told they are a good father and that they are doing just fine. This is more for when we question if we are doing the right path, so support us ladies, we need it. Fathers, your duty is to check your role. Are you just being a disciplinarian, a teacher, a provider? these are important, but remember to teach and show love- teach them about spirituality, remember to be there and be sacrificial. So when your child comes up to and asks you to play with them, read that story one last time, comfort them when they are sad, sit down and play with those cars, read the story again, give them a hug and say its ok to be sad. Don't sit on your phone or drink your beer, order them to go to bed, or say be a man and stop crying. Be sacrificial, be vulnerable, don't be the father you never wanted. You can see our collection of fatherhood inspired gifts through our store here Further Resources If you are a parent who has recently been diagnosed with cancer or has a family member who has been, We have a resource below that can assist you with explaining to your children how to handle this. I had a cancer scare myself recently, but thank God it was just normal skin moles that are benign. But the feelings I had when given that initial potential diagnosis were terrifying. The thought of leaving behind my family sooner than I had hoped was horrible. So please, read the below and contact them if you require any further assistance. Talking to Children About Cancer

Introduction: Few art forms can captivate one's imagination quite like bonsai does. These delicate miniature trees, meticulously shaped and nurtured over years, have a timeless beauty that leaves admirers in awe. But have you ever wondered about the mesmerizing history of bonsai? Join us as we embark on a journey through time to unravel the enigmatic origins and evolution of this remarkable horticultural art form. Origins of Bonsai: A Glimpse into Ancient China and Japan Bonsai, derived from the Chinese words "pun-tsai" or "penzai," meaning "tray planting," dates back over a thousand years. While the Chinese were the first to cultivate and stylize miniature trees for ornamental purposes, it is the Japanese who not only embraced bonsai but elevated it to an art form that has since traveled across the globe. The Chinese began shaping trees into miniature forms during the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD). These initial attempts at bonsai were focused on creating landscapes in trays, mimicking natural scenery. The Chinese believed that the harmonious balance of nature could be captured and represented within these miniature landscapes. Japan's Influence and the Emergence of Bonsai as an Art Form During the Tang Dynasty in China (618 – 907 AD), cultural exchange flourished between Japan and China. Japan, known for its ability to adapt foreign elements and incorporate them into indigenous culture, quickly adopted the art of bonsai from China. In Japan, bonsai gradually evolved into an expressive art form, reflecting the beauty and tranquility embedded in Japanese culture. It was in the Kamakura (1185 - 1333 AD) and Muromachi (1336 - 1573 AD) periods when the Japanese differentiated themselves from their Chinese counterparts by further refining techniques and aesthetic principles. The Zen Influence on Bonsai Art The Zen Buddhist monks significantly influenced the philosophy behind bonsai during the Muromachi period. With an emphasis on simplicity, harmony, and capturing the essence of nature, Zen Buddhism aligned perfectly with the art of bonsai. The monks introduced the concept of spiritual contemplation, where bonsai became meditative tools, embodying the beauty of nature and providing a gateway to achieving enlightenment. Daoist and Zen philosophies influenced the core principles of bonsai, emphasizing balance, asymmetry, and the use of empty space. This departure from the Chinese approach contributed to the unique aesthetic perspectives that characterize Japanese bonsai. From Japan to the World: Bonsai's Global Journey The art of bonsai began to gain international recognition and appreciation during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Japanese immigrants, carrying their bonsai traditions, brought this ancient art form to the United States, where it grew in popularity among horticultural enthusiasts. Today, bonsai has become a global phenomenon, practiced and cherished by individuals across cultures and continents. It has transcended boundaries, inspiring artists, horticulturists, and gardeners worldwide to create their miniature masterpieces. Conclusion The history of bonsai is a fascinating tale that unites ancient Chinese traditions with the refined aesthetics of Japan. With its roots steeped in cultural exchange and spiritual devotion, the captivating art of bonsai continues to flourish today, demonstrating the power of miniature landscapes to evoke tranquility and beauty. As we marvel at the intricate design and meditative qualities of each bonsai tree, we can appreciate the centuries of dedication, creativity, and mastery that have shaped this horticultural art form. The legacy of bonsai reminds us of the profound connection between mankind and nature and inspires us to create our own small worlds of aesthetic wonder. View all our products at our various stores which you can see here: Our stores Our Products

Introduction So we have just returned from our family holiday to the Western Cape in South Africa. Myself, Yolandi and Connor had a great time flying in from Johannesburg, visiting Gansbaai for a whale watching experience, staying in Blouberg visiting some friends, and just taking in all that the area had to offer over a weekend. We will elaborate further what it was like to travel with a toddler/family and what we suggest for anyone trying a weekend getaway. So what is a Cape town Family Holiday like? Departure From Johannesburg So we took the early morning flight to Cape town from OR Tambo International Airport, flying with Lift Airlines at 6.30am. We woke up at 4.00am to leave early enough to get into the fnb easy lounge. As we had purchased our tickets through them, we got free access to the lounge as well. Turns out we did not wake up early enough though as after arriving at 5am, going through the baggage process, the gate check etc, we had 15 minutes left before boarding was about to begin. So we quickly got some food, fed Connor some oats, had some juice/coffee and went to the boarding gate at 6.10am. Lift were very helpful throughout the whole boarding process, although there appears to be general confusion about what kind of car seat is allowed on a plane. We got sent a list of requirements, which ours met without a problem, but then we got there and were told it is flagged by the security staff and had to go into the luggage compartment. Apparently there are also dimensions that come into play, which was not on the list we got sent as a requirement. But we got to keep the middle seat for Connor anyway, and they said we would get a refund for it. Waiting to see if that actually happens. You can see our entire journey, including the plane flight, on our YouTube video below: Gansbaai Once we landed in Cape Town, it was off to collect our rental car. We booked this through the ebucks platform as we got a discount after booking our flight through them, which was also discounted as we are level 5 ebucks. If you want to know how to make this happen, I can give a few tips as well on that. We ended up getting a Renault Triber, but we had actually booked a Toyota corolla Quest, so I would consider that to be an upgrade, as it was a 7 seater vehicle. The space in the car was adequate, as we had gotten in Connors pram, two travel bags, two hand luggage, and then a few other accessories we carry as a family, such as Connor's bed rail. This would be used to stop him falling off the bunk bed we were supposed to have at our accommodation. More on that later. When we left Cape Town International Airport, it was around 9.30. We arrived in Gansbaai around 12:15. Yes it took nearly 3 hours to do a distance of around 120km. The road has a lot of speed limits which rarely exceed 80km a hour, and with road construction happening, this slowed down the journey. But we were not in a rush, and could take things slowly, and Connor loves road trips, he stares out the window most of the time except for when asking for food. He also slept a fair portion of the way, and we did make a quick stop in hermanus at a petrol station. The car held up well, but as the engine is a 0.9 liter, it does rev a bit higher than I am used to, and you wont get the quick speed you are used to with a larger engine, so don't try to overtake anyone without making sure you have the distance for it. We did think we should have taken out the last row of seats, as this was the 7 seater version, and that could have given us the extra space we would have preferred at the time, but we still managed to make it work. We also did not see the spots for the cupholders till the end of the trip, as the center console is built so differently than we are used to, with our cupholders being behind the gear shift, and not between the two chairs. But it did have a cooling compartment as well with it, which was rather handy for keeping things cool if you need it. If you require more space in the boot though, upgrade to a Renault Duster. Once we arrived in Gansbaai, there was a little introductory video explaining safety and a few aspects of the Marine Dynamics company. Then it was time to board the boat and head out to sea. But not before Connor had his muffin and got to play on the jungle gym they had setup. The boat itself was actually pulled to shore by a John Deer tractor, so its not a small vessel. It had about 40 people on it when we were taking our expedition. During our trip, we were lucky enough to see Southern Right whales, But unfortunately no great white sharks were around at that point. From what I remember, they had not been seen for three weeks in the area. So we had to settle with the Copper Sharks that were around. But that is how nature goes. Then naturally there is always the seals on Dyer Island. This tour does require a very long lens to be able to get closer to the seals for any decent photography. We used the Fujifilm XS-10 for our trip, as we wanted a lighter smaller body than a DSLR, but with the same image quality. Pair it with a long lens like the Tamron 150-500 to get the zoom you need. There were a few times we were up close to the animals, such as when viewing the sharks. This is best for a standard lens like the one that comes with this kit when buying the Fujifilm XS-10. We had the Tamron 11-20 F2.8 and we are very happy with the quality it is producing, and having the F2.8 allows for better low light photography. You can see some of the results here on the below video: or one of our Zazzle Products such as this one: If you are not planning or doing anything more than a few prints and saving the photos on your computer, consider a bridge camera such as the Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 While the Panasonic does have a smaller sensor and a lower pixel count, this camera is not aimed at the semi professional. It is for the everyday user who wants more zoom, less hassle, but with some features if they want to experiment. It will allow for things like long exposure photography, raw capture, 4K Video and more. But that smaller sensor will impact low light photography, and it will give lower image quality. So keep in mind what kind of traveller/photographer you are when deciding what you want to achieve. To put it simply, After Connor went to bed one night, I said goodbye to the wife, took my camera and went down to the beach at sunset and scoped out the area for some shots. and spent about an hour doing this to get some photos. If you are not this kind of person, get the Panasonic. Blouberg We finished our tour and then started heading home around 4pm. They did offer soup and bread but we had a three hour journey back home and had to get Connor fed, in bed and we needed rest ourselves. So off we went. We got dinner at Trecastelli that evening. I had a pizza and my wife had a pasta as we know our son will eat pasta, and so they shared. We got into the apartment at around 7pm that night. We were staying at the Infinity Apartments in Blouberg, Apartment G01. This is a ground floor apartment, but still had sea views, and views of the mountain. Yes you will hear more traffic, but it was limited, and you will hear if anyone is at the pool. but we wanted it as it had a solid wall on the balcony, safety for Connor, and was supposed to have a double bunk bed. We could put blankets and pillows on the wall sides to stop Connor hurting himself against them, and then the bed guard rail we purchased on the exposed side.It was simply to carry and the most convenient solution for us. But when we got there, there was no double bunk bed, but rather a double bed. I checked the website and booking.com to ensure we were not wrong. But everything said a double bunk bed. So we had to make a plan. out came every pillow and spare blanket we could find, and we made a fort around the edges of the bed to prevent Connor falling off. It worked for the three nights thankfully. The rest of the trip was spent visiting friends, eating out at restaurants such as Doodles which makes excellent food and has great views and was a few hundred meters from the apartment. Sunday we went to church with our friends, it was a pleasant church called common ground. Spent the day on the beach with some more friends who stay near Fishhoek, said goodbye to them at 4pm, and then packed up everything we could that night, put Connor back into his routine of bath, story, bedtime. We are currently reading The Gruffalo and Monkey Puzzle. He likes pointing to the different animals and waiting for me to say the name, and then goes to the next one, and repeat. He even takes one to bed with him these days. Either to cuddle or just look through on his own, we are not certain at the moment. Flying Back to Joburg Flying back to Joburg, we learnt from our first flight and still left at 4:45 or so, as our flight this time left at 8am. So we arrived at the airport at 5.30, handed in the car, handed over our luggage, still a lot of uncertainty about the car chair at that point, so we just took it with us up to the plane. We got into the lounge at around 6am, giving us a full hour to eat, change Connor, and just relax for the flight, it was fairly full, and we were the only parents in their with a toddler. Makes you initially self conscious a little, as everyone else appears to be business people, but we are allowed in, so let them think what they will. I had to sit on the floor to feed Connor his oats that time, as he decided that was his spot and wanted his shoes off as well. And the rest is history, we got on the plane, they took the car seat and the pram into the luggage compartment from us. we boarded, Connor was a lot more comfortable this time with the restraint for the takeoff and landing, and generally had a good time throughout the trip. All in all, A successful family vacation for everyone.

Intro Equipment Travel plans Introduction So the Arndt family will be taking a much needed trip down to cape town in 10 days to visit some old friends and see some of the local sites, and hopefully do some photography as well while we are there. We will be staying in Bloubergstrand and taking a few excursions around the area as well. This will just be a weekend trip from Friday to Monday, and most of it will be catching up with old friends. But we will discuss in the post below about what our plans for our holiday to cape town, what photography gear we will be taking and what things to do with the family we will be experiencing. Our Equipment We recently were gifted some new equipment thanks to my mother in law and wife. We are now using a Fuji XS-10 which came with a Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS Zoom Lens. We got it at a discount as well as the local Foto First shop had it returned from a different customer, but there was nothing wrong with it. The reason I went for this camera was more functionality than name. I previously had a Canon DSLR, but wanted something smaller for travel photography, with the advanced capabilities of a better camera than a bridge version. Bridge cameras sit between the point and shoot and mirrorless/DSLR world, giving more features, but no lenses and smaller sensors. This camera had In Body Image Stabilization, which for me was a must. I have had shaky hands due to a overactive thyroid for years already, and learnt that the stabilization for me was the difference between a useless photo and something I can work with. While this camera is not a full frame, it is good enough for my needs currently and thanks to our multitude of ebucks and discovery miles available, I will soon be adding a wide angle lens, The Tamron 11-20 F2.8 Di III A-RXD Lens. Dont let all those letters fool you, they are not that complicated. the Di III Means it is a lens made for use with crop sensor cameras, such as the one we are using currently. The 11-20 represents the mm of the focal length, but as this is a crop sensor, it is actually a 16.5 to 30, as a APS-C Sensor has a crop of 1.5. So its not the lens that actually changes in anyway, it still works as a 11-20mm, but due to the sensor being smaller in the camera than a full frame( which is 35mm in dimensions, or 24mm x 36mm ), the final image is more zoomed in than on a full frame. So what essentially happens is that your APS-C sensor removes some of the area round the photograph you wish to take, so instead of having all the photo of a full frame, it only gives you a certain portion of it. This only really matters in certain types of photography. Wildlife photography is not always impacted by this, as the animals tend to be further away, but anything that is close up photography, landscape photography to a extent, macro photography, portrait photography, and low light photography, could be affected by this. The reason why low light photography is included is that because the larger sensor allows for more light, which improves image quality. But there are more factors this. For supporting the camera during the low light and long exposure photography, we will be using a tripod for stability. Low light photography requires a longer shutter speed or a lower f stop to allow more light to come onto the sensor. The longer shutter speed means it can also pick up any movement that occurs during the time it takes to take the photo. This can also be used in daylight, but then you need to balance the aperture( F-stop) to account for this. You could also use a higher ISO, but this does degrade image quality under most situations, and so working with shutter speed and aperture is preferred. So we will be getting ourselves a tripod such as the K&F Concept 78 Inch Tripod. It is a monopod and a tripod, weighs 1.5kg and has a max load capacity of 10kg, which is more than sufficient for our needs. We will also be getting ourselves some bags to carry all this equipment around in. We are looking at two bags currently, one for the everyday walking around and one for carrying all the equipment. For the everyday walking we will not be needing to carry all the equipment, so a smaller bag with a few lenses and accessories will be fine. for this purpose we will be getting the Cwatcun camera single shoulder bag, or at least the south african version of it, the Caden single shoulder backpack. Then for carrying all the equipment around, we will be getting the K&F Concept Travel bag. With its large store capacity and ability to carry a 15.6 laptop, tripod, 3 lenses, flashes and spares, not to mention its waterproof and has space for water bottles. It is the perfect bag for the on the go photographer who needs to carry all the accessories for that out there photoshoot. Our Travel Plans So for our trip we will be flying into Cape Town from Johannesburg on Lift airlines. The reason for selecting them was two fold: We needed some little extra assistance with getting a seat for my son, Connor, who is 19 months at this point. He is a active child and so getting him his own seat was preferred and suggested by other parents as well. Their system did not allow this normally, so we had to reach out and their social media support helped us out a lot. The second reason was that we get better discounts with that airline through the ebucks platform from FNB. The 40% discount on the flight was appreciated, just remember it did not include taxes etc., just the airlines portion of the cost. I like to consider myself a expert of ebucks and discovery miles and how to make it work for you. We will be staying at the infinity apartments in blouberg, in the two bedroom apartment on the ground floor. This is because Connor has just moved to sleeping in his own bed and so we are booking all our accommodation with this in mind, and no more travel cots required. Instead we purchased a portable guard rail from our local baby store. Its quick and easy to setup, and can fit a variety of bed sizes. Videos and photos of the accommodation will soon follow. For our car rental, we will be going with a Toyota corolla quest or similar. We did not need a large car for this trip as its just the three of us with one bag and some smaller bags but otherwise the car will do just fine for the trip. Rather save the cash and put it towards a excursion. Our one planned excursion while we are there is to do the dyer island cruises. We will be doing the marine big five cruise, and they have varying prices for their various options. So whether you are looking to do a shark cage dive or just cruise. They can assist in whatever you choose to do. See there options here. We will be uploading more photos and videos of the entire trip once we are done. So you can expect the results on our social media channels and more once completed. in the meantime, view our photography from our other trips and days working on the game reserves here. View our Products available as well.

When my son was going to be born, naturally all the gifts we got had included clothing of some nature. But there was a aspect to this clothing I did not appreciate as a new dad-to-be. What I was looking for designs that praised me as a father, while I was learning how to be a parent to a child. Thankfully there are many resources out there that educate us on Toddlers, Fathers and Parenting. Everything was praising the mothers and the grandmothers, but there was nothing praising the fathers in the lot. the closest was a bodysuit that told the father where to put the arms and legs with arrows. While I understand and can appreciate the humor that dad's are clueless when it comes to babies, we still play a role in the child's life and so a little celebration and positivity coming our way would have been nice as well. So I decided to start creating a range of designs that promote the healthy fathers out there. Clothing and father positive items which celebrate and say the good we are doing. Fathers play an important role in the development of their children as well, and we should and are required to be an active part of our children's lives. A stable nuclear family is important to raise well adjusted children. And I mean that in the traditional sense, a mother, a father and children. and yes its a biologically female mother, a biologically male father. I don't hate anyone who feels that they are different than what their body suggests, but I have chosen a set of standards and principles to live by, and asking me to adjust and accept a unproven idea of gender dysphoria affirmation which has no scientific or psychological backing is unfortunately not how I operate. I understand they feel a certain way, and that's ok, just like it is ok for people to have feelings of anger, joy, sadness, betrayal etc. But the problem comes in when you tell the world to leave you with your feelings and ask everyone else to adjust to it. If someone said I am angry and have the right to scream and throw fits in the middle of the office at everyone I want because they feel like it, they would be told to seek counselling on healthy ways to deal with it. So if a person feels like they are different to what their body is, that's their issue to work through and figure out. Why should the rest of the world have to accept and be accommodating to that one person and their feelings. The world doesn't have to accommodate for every small personal belief out there, they get told to leave it behind sometimes eg political, religious etc. So shouldn't the same standard apply to sexual beliefs. Don't bring it into the world where it just makes everyone jump around you. I heard a story of a woman who changed her views on herself daily at the office. One day she was he/her, then them/they, then xie/xer, then wolf/self, and sent out a daily email telling people how to address her, and if you got it wrong, you got reported to HR every time and was told to do sensitivity training. Eventually people just started using her name instead. Now the above just screams either a cry for attention, or looking to cause trouble daily to make her feel important. Either way, there was a psychological aspect to this, and it cant be ignored for the sake of someone's feelings. Fathers play an important role in how their children develop. It has been studied that, amongst other aspects, fathers can influence: Boys: Their dad may be a role model. Some research suggests that their father’s influence may have a lot to do with how sociable boys are. Girls: Having a good relationship with their father can have an impact on their self-esteem and sense of identity, especially while they are teenagers. Teenagers: Fathers are especially important in the teenage years. They may help with setting limits or may have a particular role in helping the teens to spread their wings. Fathers are no longer just limited to the financial and disciplinarian aspects of raising a child. This is thankfully a very old outdated idea that has long gone hopefully and psychology can teach us what children actually need from fathers. Fathers who get involved are less likely to have children who: have teenage birth being expelled serve jail time and can influence positive things like: how to talk to their future spouses make better life choices better cognitive development feel more loved So when those birthdays and special events come around for your children, make a fuss, get involved, plan a party, read to your kids, play with them, enjoy your children. And don't forget you have a spouse/partner who can assist you with the bad days, you will get frustrated, you will get angry, its normal, its about how you deal with it. Talk to your wife, talk to your psychologist, mental health is important. Men don't have to be strong and hide everything they feel. I talk about my emotions whenever the pop up with my wife. And it's ok. We are following the gentle parenting approach as well, which you can read about further as well. It was a mind-shift from the traditional spank your children into submission approach we grew up with, but it is rated as the best way to raise children, and will require adjustment from your side, but be patient with yourself. To see more of what we offer, view our products page or visit our Zazzle Shop for more. We also offer designs and photography from our days on the game reserve and travelling, you can view all our stores on this page

For those who love African wildlife Photography, and work a desk job. we have desk mats just for y0u Sitting in the office at work all day, trying to remember what your trip to Africa was like? remembering all the moments you had with the wildlife, the sites, the smells. Well hopefully we can assist in that regard. Pathblazer Studios has a wide range of African wildlife desk mats that will bring back the memories, and at the same time let everyone know exactly where you would prefer to be. Our range of wildlife photography custom printed desk mats are available now. See our range We have a page dedicated to the desk mats on our website and you can view them right here. If you are looking for something smaller, we also have mousepads to suit just that need with the same designs on them. We can cater for pretty much anything you desire. Thank you for the support Thank you for spending your time with us, we appreciate it. We are always willing to hear from our readers what they think about our products and services and would love to have feedback. See our contact us page for further info.

Africa is home to many incredible species, and the “Big Five” are no exception. The Big Five—lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—are some of the continent’s most iconic animals and have been found in African savannahs and jungles for thousands of years. They are also some of the most endangered animals in Africa, and their populations are at risk from poaching, loss of habitat, and human impact. Lions are one of the Big Five species of Africa. They are well-known for their beauty and their strength. Lions are the largest of the African cats and the second largest cats in the world, after tigers. They are the most social of the big cats, living in prides comprised of up to 20 individuals. Lions hunt during the night and day, and they play an important role in maintaining the balance of power in their ecosystem. Sadly, their populations are in decline due to poaching and habitat loss. The African elephant is the world’s largest living land mammal and yet another of the Big Five species. Elephants are social animals, living in large family groups of up to 12 individuals. Elephants have a varied diet, which consists of plant matter, such as fruits, leaves, and grasses, as well as other animals, such as insects, ants, and small mammals. They have a deep connection with the land and are considered one of the keystone species in the African savannahs, having a major impact on the structure of their environment. Sadly, their population is in decline due to poaching, habitat loss, and human conflict. The Cape buffalo is a large and powerful bovid and one of Africa’s Big Five. These animals inhabit savannahs and grasslands, where they live in herds that can number up to several hundred individuals. They are known for their aggressiveness and will often attack predators or people who get too close. Their diet consists of grasses and other plants, and they play an important role in their environment, providing essential nutrients for other species. Unfortunately, their populations are in decline due to hunting and habitat loss. The leopard is the smallest of the Big Five. They are excellent climbers and have the ability to take large prey, such as antelope and wild pigs. They inhabit wooded areas and woody savannahs in Sub-Saharan Africa, and their diet consists of small mammals, reptiles, and insects. Their populations are declining due to poaching and habitat loss, although they are still found in some areas. The rhinoceros is the final member of the Big Five. Rhinos are herbivores, eating grass and other plants. They live in savannahs and grasslands and play an important role in maintaining ecological balance. Due to poaching, their populations are in decline, and two of the five species of rhinos are now considered critically endangered. The Big Five species of Africa are a precious part of the continent’s natural heritage. Their populations are declining due to poaching and habitat loss, and it is up to us to ensure their survival. By supporting organizations and initiatives that work to protect these animals, we can help secure their future. We offer multiple designs for these animals, except for the leopard which has eluded us up to this point, but whether you are looking for conservation themed designs, landmarks designs, original wildlife photos, ripped shirt designs and more from our wildlife photographs. Whether you are looking for mousepads, shirts, stickers, mugs, canvas prints, wrapping paper or gift bags,postcards and more, we have the perfect gift for wildlife lovers, enthusiast and addicts that will certainly be the perfect way to put a smile on their face. We have stores with: Zazzle Redbubble Society6 and more to come in time. Consider Zazzle and Redbubble first as those are the most up to date at this point.

Exploring the wilds of Africa is on many bucket lists, and a safari is the ultimate way to do just that. With an abundance of stunning wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, an African safari can make for a truly unforgettable experience. Here’s a look at all you need to know to get started planning the perfect safari trip. One of the first steps in planning an African safari is choosing a destination. Decide which countries you'd like to visit and what attractions and activities you'd most like to experience during your trip. Do you want to see the Great Migration in the Serengeti? Visit Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda or Uganda? Or, perhaps you'd like to glimpse a pride of lions on the savannas of Kenya? You’ll also need to consider when to travel. Different parks and regions are favored at different times of the year depending on the location and animal migratory patterns. Weather conditions should also be taken into account when choosing a destination and the season for a safari. The second step is selecting an operator for the safari. You want to make sure the tour operator is reliable and knowledgeable. Be sure to research ratings, read reviews and consult with your travel agent or specialty safari outfitter. When selecting your tour guide and operators, look for professional qualifications, as well as references from past trips. The third step is to begin planning all the details of your trip. This includes arranging flights and accommodations, deciding on the type of vehicle and mode of transport, selecting meals and drinks, and creating a budget. There are several different options when it comes to African safari lodging, ranging from tented camps to luxury lodges, so be sure to consider what will best suit your tastes and needs. Finally, you’ll want to make sure you are prepared for the safari itself. If you’re headed for a cross-country or multi-day trip, bring plenty of water, snacks, and other provisions. Additionally, be sure to pack any medication and first aid supplies you may need, as well as sunscreen and insect repellant. Bring a full-length mirrorless camera or DSLR to capture all the amazing wildlife you'll be lucky enough to see. Your phone might be ok for the average shot, but low light which happens often on trips like this, can not always come out great on these kinds of cameras. that is where a larger camera with more technology comes into play. Make sure you bring plenty of memory cards, lenses and batteries for your camera, along with binoculars for observing birds, fish and other animals. An African safari is a unique and exciting way to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. By following the steps outlined above, you'll be ready to embark on your own safari adventure. For those who have already gone on an African safari, and enjoyed it so much that they want to return over and over, you are welcome at anytime to do just that. share your favorite memories with us and let us know what you enjoyed the most, regardless of country you visited. For those looking for a gift of going on a safari, we have created a unique set of designs with the slogan I would rather be on an African safari, and can be found on a wide variety of gifts through our stores page. You can also view our products page for more options

The Addo Elephant Park in South Africa is a spectacular reserve that is home to some of the largest and most majestic animals on the planet: elephants. This magnificent park is the only one of its kind in the country that provides a sanctuary for African elephants to roam free and thrive in their natural environment. Elephants are seen as a symbol of strength and power in Africa, their incredible size only matched by their intelligence. At Addo, the habitat for these magnificent creatures is filled with diverse African landscapes, where they can roam and explore without the threat of human interference or hunting. This reserve also includes a variety of other wildlife, like Cape buffalo, hippos, and giraffes, so that visitors can observe these animals in their natural habitat. Although the African elephant has no natural predators, they still face major threats in the wild, such as being poached for their ivory tusks and habitat loss due to human encroachment. This is why the Addo Elephant Park is so important; it provides a safe and secure home for these animals to flourish. The park also offers a variety of experiences for visitors to explore, such as game drives, safari walks, and boat cruises where you can get up close to the elephants and observe their behavior in their natural habitat. Additionally, the park offers specialized programs for school groups and families that help to educate and spread awareness about the need to take care of these majestic creatures. The park is widely regarded as a successful conservation effort and is a proud home to a growing population of elephants. There is no better way to experience the beauty and majesty of these animals close up than by visiting the Addo Elephant Park. So don't miss out on this once in a lifetime experience and come to Addo to witness firsthand the incredible sights and sounds of these impressive African elephants. We offer a wide variety of photos of elephants taken in the Addo Elephant Park among other places, go view our stores page or our products page to see what we have to offer.

At Pathblazer Studios, we have committed ourselves to combining photography and design to create unique and one of a kind wildlife artwork from our safaris in Africa. Whether you are looking for Wildlife photography of Rhinos, Zebras, Elephants, Lions or others, and want more than just the standard wildlife photo on a gift, we have a wide range of designs and options available. Gifts we offer include: Wildlife Shirts Wildlife Mousepads Wildlife Mugs Wildlife Stickers Wildlife Magnets Wildlife Coasters Wildlife Bags Wildlife Tumblers And more So whichever gift you are looking for for that wildlife lovers/wildlife addict, we at Pathblazer Studios are sure we have the product you are looking for. Perhaps one of these shirts is the perfect gift? and yes we have it in other colors than pink as well. So why buy a generic everyday shirt that was made in a factory on mass, when you can have a custom made and unique design made by us and shipped directly to your location. We have partnerships with Zazzle and Redbubble currently, with more designs of african wildlife, nature and outdoor photography/art being added all the time,. so follow us on our social media channels if you would like to be informed of what we are up to. Thank you for spending some time with us, and we hope to see you soon on an African Safari. View our products page for more options.

Pathblazer Studios has recently started offering African wildlife gift bags as a additional product to our collection. We are busy adding all our designs, and you can view them on our Zazzle Shop. If you are looking for a unique gift to give the nature lover in your life, then consider African wildlife photography design gift bags from Zazzle. These bags are not only stylish and fun, but they are also great for helping to spread awareness of African wildlife. With this in mind, let’s take a closer look at what these gift bags have to offer. At first glance, African wildlife gift bags from Zazzle are a great way to express your support for African wildlife conservation. Each bag showcases a beautiful African animal – from zebras, rhinos and lions to elephants, buffaloes and giraffes. We have an I heart South Africa range for example, which will show how much you loved your African Safari while visiting South Africa. if you went to another African country, or a few, we have a I Heart Africa range with our photography as well. The bags are available in both small and large sizes, so there’s something for everyone. With this in mind, anyone you give these bags to is sure to think of the beautiful wildlife in Africa when they look at the bag. All in all, African wildlife gift bags from Zazzle are a great way to show your support of African wildlife conservation. They’re stylish, they come with a meaningful message, and they’re sure to put a smile on the face of the person receiving the gift. View our collection of Gift Bags here

When it comes to wildlife photography, Africa is an absolute paradise. This spectacular continent is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, and its vast stretches of untouched wilderness provide an unparalleled experience for photographers. Whether you’re an experienced shooter or just starting out in the field, Africa offers an array of inspiring sights and spectacular photo opportunities. For starters, the sheer variety of wild animals in Africa is something to behold. Lions, elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, leopards, and countless other mammals, reptiles, and arthropods make their homes here. And for birdwatchers, the continent is heaven – there are over 2,000 species to observe! No matter what your specific photographic interests are, you’ll find plenty to capture in Africa. When it comes to locations, Africa is a photographer’s playground. Popular parks like the Serengeti and Masai Mara are an obvious choice, and will offer incredible opportunities for capturing some of the world’s most iconic animals in their natural state. But don’t forget about lesser-known locations, as they tend to have plenty of hidden gems away from the tourist crowds. When shooting wildlife, patience and preparation are key. Make sure to bring along plenty of lenses and accessories to give you more creative control, designating specific lenses and camera settings for animals of different sizes. If you plan to shoot large mammals like elephants or rhinos, consider investing in a longer lens to really capture their majestic size. And don’t forget to bring a teleconverter to get up close and personal shots. Finally, don’t forget to respect the wildlife and nature around you. Noise and human interference will not only detract from your photography, but can be dangerous and disruptive for the animals. If you’re mindful, ethical, and follow the best practices for wildlife photography, you’ll be able to create some truly breathtaking and inspiring images in Africa. Don't forget to view our stores all focused on Wildlife Photography in Africa We have a wide variety of African wildlife photography and designs and sell through various channels including our Zazzle, Redbubble and our store.