A Pearl in the Jungle
Boutique luxury resort in Tanzania
This project was captured mostly around the village of Mto Wa Mbu and Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania, combining lifestyle shots of the resort, visitor journey, as well as nearby activities and immersion into the local culture and community.
Staying at the resort while working on capturing the content gave us the opportunity to have a full immersion and real feel of the location and its surroundings, which in turn allowed us to observe the time sensitivities of light and nature and gave us the opportunity to capture each shot at the right time of the day.
Capturing these moments requires a sensitivity to the environment, understanding when to be patient and let nature unfold. The resort’s eco-friendly practices, aligned with our approach, empowered us to create a visual narrative that highlights sustainable living in harmony with nature while having access to adventure and experiences in the region.
Producer: Diana Vaznele
Creative Director: Tommy Vaznelis
Camera Operators: Tommy Vaznelis, Matt Mead, Justin Hackney
Drone Footage: Abdil Malick
Resort Photography
Location: Mto Wa Mbu, Tanzania
Client: Jungle Pearl Resort
by Diana Vaznele
Culture
This project allowed us to dive deeply into the rich culture of Tanzania and natural beauty of the region. The resort, perfectly situated between the Serengeti and Kilimanjaro, within the stunning Lake Manyara National Park is a destination that immerses you in the heart of Tanzania’s wilderness.
The warm welcome of locals reflects the deep cultural connection between people and nature here. We made sure our photos and videos captured not only the stunning landscapes but also the authentic local charm that makes this place so special.
Experiences
To truly capture the essence of Jungle Pearl Resort, our team immersed ourselves in the local culture, explored the land, and connected with the people who call it home.
Our days were filled with incredible moments, whether we were heading out on a famous Serengeti safari to capture wildlife in their natural surroundings or jumping on motorbikes to explore the giant baobab trees that stand tall across the landscape. The energy of the land was palpable, and each new experience gave us a fresh perspective to weave into our visual narrative.
One of the most unforgettable experiences was capturing the dance with the Maasai tribe, whose vibrant traditions and deep connection to the land resonate throughout the resort. Their rhythmic movements, colourful shukas, and joyful spirits became a beautiful metaphor for the harmony between nature and culture that defines the Jungle Pearl.
Each adventure reinforced the unique story of the resort and the incredible experiences it offers. We found it essential not only to capture the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings but also to tell the story of the adventures and people who bring it to life. By embracing the thrill of exploration, we ensured that every shot reflected the spirit of adventure that awaits every guest at Jungle Pearl Resort.
Behind The Scenes
Behind the scenes, we worked closely with the staff and locals to ensure that our shoots respected the environment and community.
We took time to connect with the culture, learning a few Swahili phrases and gaining deeper insight into the lives and traditions of locals, which enriched our perspective. Whether we were setting up shots in the accommodations or capturing wildlife on the resort's fringes, the whole team felt inspired by the harmonious blend of nature and hospitality that defines Jungle Pearl Resort. This balance of preparation and spontaneity allowed us to create visuals that truly represent the spirit of the place.
Social Media content & graphic design
During our stay at Jungle Pearl Resort, we produced high quality on-the-go social media content, capturing reels that showcased the resort’s stunning surroundings and authentic experiences. Alongside photography, we developed graphic design assets, including event posters, as part of a long-term content strategy for the resort. This content is designed to be used across various platforms, supporting an ongoing campaign to highlight the unique offerings of Jungle Pearl over time.
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Easter Celebration.
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Music & Wellness Day.
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Christmas Day.
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New Years Event.
