Namibian Photographer of the Month: Kris Barnard

Hi! I’m Kris Alexander Barnard. I am a creative observer that finds inspiration in the outdoors.

_{Kris Alexander Barnard | Namibian Photographer of the month}

As a qualified architect and chef, I enjoy finding patterns or unusual compositions and colours in my photography.

Photography brings me joy as it allows us to capture memories and share new perspectives.

_{New Perspectives | Camels in the dunes of Namibia | Photo credits: Kris Barnard}

As a proud Namibian, I would like to advocate for the conservation of our nature and landscapes as we are incredibly gifted.

Why did you choose to pursue a career as a photographer?

It's a big change to sitting in the office during my architecture job. I love being outdoors and travelling, but more importantly, I love being able to show people what I experienced.

_{Nature Shot of the Night Sky | Photo Credits: Kris Barnard}

I also enjoy the entire process of shooting nature or people, editing and printing out my works! My dream would be to have a wall-sized print of my work.

Why Namibia?

Contrary to popular belief, it's not just a desert. The number of colours, life and variety of textures all around keep drawing me in. So much of what we see is untouched.

And of course, the harsh contrasts and ever-changing and breathtaking landscapes just make me want to re-explore this country.

What is your favourite subject to photograph and why?

I have a love for shooting aerial landscapes this is probably because of the journey it takes to get there via hiking, drone or plane. Secondly,
as an architect, I like to see the world from above, as this creates a very abstract view.

_{Aerial Landscape of Namibia | Photo Credits: Kris Barnard}

If you could suggest one specific lodge in Namibia to tourists, which is your favourite and why?

I'm generally a camping guy but my favourite would be Okahirongo Elephant Lodge because of the landscapes, desert lions and elephants, Puros and the simple yet luxurious rooms and pool area.

_{Elephant sighting in Namibia | Photo Credits: Kris Barnard}

For more of Kris’s beautiful work, follow his Instagram page _krisbarnard_ and southernx_studios. For more luxurious accommodation options, why not have a look at our blog Best Safari Lodges in Namibia.

Written by Tiffany Bowers

• Travel Writer

Discover the African Journey that’s Right for You

Blog List Start Planning

"Chizaan was excellent in accommodating our needs, and she chose excellent places for us to stay. The Dulini River Lodge was absolutely exceptional, as well as all the employees there. The other places that we stayed were also perfect with very attentive sta..."

Sanford Wagenberg, Spain•03 Oct 2026•

"We had an incredible trip to South Africa. Adelle did an incredible job of setting us up when we only gave her a few weeks notice. We had a different trip booked that got cancelled due to river conditions in Europe so we tried a pivot to South Africa and it..."

Bill Kennedy, United States•14 Sep 2026•

"Our entire experience was magnificent. Everything was in place and perfectly reliable. We wanted for nothing and were taken care of every step of the way. To use the word "life changing" seems so cliché, but my husband and I both found the whole trip an ama..."

Julie Ferguson, United States•03 May 2026•

"We have just returned from the most incredible 2 week trip in Africa, travelling to Kruger National Park, Cape Town and Victoria Falls - it was made all the more special by the incredible guidance, planning and organisation of Discover Africa, specifically ..."

Anita Panikkar, Australia•10 Jan 2026•

"Chrizaan Troch of Discover Africa helped us organize a recent safari in Chobe National Park. She was great to deal with - listened to what we wanted, and also offered other suggestions. She was very efficient, and always replied promptly to our questions. ..."

Celia Schroeder, Canada•03 Dec 2025•

"This was a well organized trip that smoothly transitioned us from one adventure to the next. All our transfers from hotels to airport to safari lodges were professional, courteous, and timely. We loved the places that were recommended and felt the pace of o..."

Jeanne Bryan, United States•22 Nov 2025•