Discovering Costa Rica:
A True Paradise for Nature Photographer

A Gitzo Story by Michele Bavassano


Costa Rica is a true paradise for nature lovers, renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity and lush forests. The country hosts about 5% of the world's biodiversity, despite occupying only 0.03% of the Earth's surface.
These ecosystems are home to thousands of plant species, over 850 bird species, numerous mammals such as jaguars, monkeys, and sloths, and a myriad of insects and amphibians.
Costa Rica is also a pioneer in environmental conservation. Approximately 25% of its territory is protected by national parks and nature reserves. Thanks to these conservation policies, the country has managed to reverse deforestation and promote ecotourism as a sustainable source of income.

Moreover, Costa Rica is a top destination for nature photography. With such an abundance of flora and fauna, one has the opportunity to frame spectacular images of wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Walking through the dense tropical forests, you can encounter stunning and colorful species like toucans, hummingbirds, and the resplendent quetzal, making for unforgettable photographs.

Costa Rica is a global model for biodiversity and forest conservation, offering visitors the chance to explore some of the planet's richest and most intact ecosystems and to take unique photographs.

In nature photography, especially in environments such as lowlands, rainforests, and highlands above 3000 meters, the choice of equipment plays a crucial role in achieving quality results. In these extreme environmental conditions, characterized by heat, humidity, and altitude variations, it is essential to have reliable tools that provide support and stability during photo shoots.

Gitzo Tripods: The Ideal Companion


A Gitzo Systematic tripod has proven to be an indispensable companion on these photographic adventures. Its robust and lightweight construction, combined with high-quality materials like carbon fiber, ensures a solid base for mounting photographic equipment. This is particularly important on uneven terrain or in adverse weather conditions, where the stability of the tripod can make the difference between a sharp and a blurred shot.

Additionally, the flexibility and adjustability of the Gitzo Systematic tripod allow for quick adaptation to different shooting situations and angles, enabling detailed and well-composed images even in the most challenging contexts. Thanks to its reliability and durability, the Gitzo tripod has proven to be my trusted ally in natural environments, providing the peace of mind needed to focus fully on creativity and composition.

Michele Bavassano's gear


To bring out the best in your wildlife photography expeditions, choosing the perfect equipment is crucial.   

Gimbal Head Gitzo GHFG1 Award GHFG1

Gimbal Fluid Head

Weight 1.35 kg
Base Diameter 60 mm
Material Aluminium, Magnesium
Front Tilt -180° / +180°
Safety Payload UNI/PdR 105:2021 8 kg
Plate Type quick release - with 1/4″ screw
Colour Black/Noir Decor
Top Attachment 1/4″ screw, 3/8″ screw
Easy Link No
Friction Control No
Head Type Other
Independent Pan Lock Yes
Independent Tilt Lock Yes
Maximum Working Temperature 70 °C
Minimum Working Temperature -20 °C
Pan Bar Included Yes
Pan Drag 1 step plus variable PTFE friction
Panoramic Rotation 360 °
Quick Release Yes
Tilt Drag fluid cartridge with fixed drag
GT3543LS GT3543LS

Gitzo tripod Systematic, series 3 long, 4 sections

Weight 2.03 kg
Leg Sections 4
Maximum Height 146 cm
Min Height 9 cm
Closed Length 57 cm
Maximum Height (with Center Column Down) 146 cm
Bubble Spirit Level (No.) 1
Carrying Bag Included none
Center Column no centre column
Upper Disc Diameter 70 mm
Top Attachment 3/8″ screw
Colour Noir Decor
Easy Link Yes
Leg Type Single
Leg Angles 23°, 53°, 86°
Leg Lock Type Twist Lock
Legs Tube Diameter 21.7, 25.3, 29, 32.9 mm
Material CarbonExact
Maximum Working Temperature 70 °C
Minimum Working Temperature -30 °C
Series 3
Safety Payload UNI/PdR 105:2021 28 kg

About Michele

Michele was born in 1996, in Orvieto and grew up in a small town located on the border between Umbria, Lazio, and Tuscany. Since he was a child, he was always fascinated by the natural environment and continues to dedicate his photographic life to it every day. For several years now Michele has been observing nature through his camera with the aim of sharing his story to others who connect with his photographs. All of Michele’s photographs have a personal style that often resembles a "dreamlike" vision of nature. Michele can express his vision by anticipating the right moment, scene, light, and arrangement of the composition to achieve the perfect shot.