Bolton photographers trade in wedding bells for safari thrills in Botswana and beyond

Vince and Tracy Groome, who had been running a wedding photography business, had enough of corporate life when COVID hit, and decided to retire early.

They wanted to pursue something more adventurous, which is when they decided to fund their travels by using their wedding photography business.

Their passion for photography and animals led them on an exciting journey to Africa, where they went on a photographic safari adventure.

The couple stayed at the Pangolin Chobe Hotel in Botswana and captured the most stunning photos of wildlife such as lions, hippos, crocodiles, kingfishers, and buffalo, all from the comfort of the Pangolin’s boat on the Chobe River.

Vince, 62, with his deep technical knowledge of photography, and Tracy, 58, with her keen eye for detail, make the perfect team.

The Groome’s have always had a passion for all types of photography, but capturing animals in the wild was a whole new challenge for them.

“Not just the wonder of seeing those wonderful creatures, up close and in their natural habitat, but to be able to capture the moments… it’s an incredible feeling,” Tracy said.

The couple was provided with photographic tuition during their stay in Botswana, which taught them new ways of thinking about their photography.

Unlike traditional safaris, where scenes are often staged, the Pangolin photographic safari encourages participants to observe what’s going on around them naturally.

Tracy believes in staying put and seeing what’s going to happen when it comes to photography, and that’s exactly what they did.

The guides knew the area well, so they were able to spot what was going to happen next, and those skills were invaluable.

The Groome’s are also passionate about supporting communities in other countries that have suffered significantly when tourism stopped due to COVID.

Through their travels, they feel they are supporting these communities while also funding conservation efforts in those countries.

The couple has big plans for the future and is heading off to Santiago and Buenos Aires to photograph penguin colonies.

It’s a dream for both of them, and they’re excited to continue their adventure and see what else the world has to offer.

The Groome’s have truly left the rat race behind and are now living life on their terms.