Welcome to My World of Photography
I was privileged to grow up as a farm boy in the heart of the Springbokvlakte, Limpopo Province. Surrounded by vast open landscapes, wildlife, and the rhythms of nature, I developed an early appreciation for the world’s beauty. Life on the farm instilled in me a deep sense of patience, observation, and respect for creation—qualities that would later shape my approach to photography. After finishing school in 1994 and completing an apprenticeship in 1997, I moved to Pretoria in 1998 to pursue theological studies at the University of Pretoria. This city has been my home ever since, but my heart always longs for the wild spaces where I feel most alive.
The Beginnings of a Lifelong Passion
My journey into photography began with a simple yet profound fascination. As a child, I watched my father wield his Pentax K1000 film camera, capturing moments that would otherwise slip away into memory. Those photo albums were more than just collections of images; they were windows into the past, filled with emotion and meaning. At 18, my father gifted me that same Pentax—a gesture that cemented my love for photography. I spent every spare moment experimenting with it, saving every cent to develop my film. The process was slow and costly, but it taught me to be intentional with each frame, to visualize the image before pressing the shutter. This discipline remains with me today, even in the digital era, where the temptation to take countless "cheap" shots exists.
A Photographer’s Journey
In the early days, learning photography was not as accessible as it is now. There were no YouTube tutorials or Facebook groups to guide me. My inspiration came from coffee table books that fueled my imagination and one pivotal book—Essential Wildlife Photography by Richard du Toit. Though it focused on film photography, its principles still shape my work today.
My transition into digital photography began with a Canon 350D and a 70-300mm lens. It was a revelation. The ability to see instant results accelerated my learning curve, but I remained committed to understanding the fundamentals. Every new camera I acquired came with a non-negotiable ritual—I studied the manual from start to finish. Mastering one’s equipment is, to me, an essential part of the art. It allows a photographer to be fully present in the moment, responding instinctively rather than fumbling with settings.
Balancing Photography with Ministry and Family Life
Photography is not my full-time profession; I am a theologian and pastor. Since 2004, I have had the privilege of serving the same congregation that first called me after completing my studies. My life is deeply intertwined with faith, learning, and community. I hold a PhD in theology, chair TraumaNetwork South Africa, and work on a development program for pastors.
Beyond ministry, I am an avid reader, writer, and public speaker. I contribute to African Birdlife Magazine and speak on topics ranging from photography to birding and life philosophy. Despite my many commitments, photography remains an integral part of my life—a space where I can express creativity, reflect, and connect with the world on a deeper level.
The Call of the Wild—Travel and Photography
Thankfully, I have a family that shares my love for travel. We prioritize exploring new destinations, balancing my passion for photography with quality family time. Every two years, we embark on a long journey—camping for over 25 days at a time—and take shorter trips in between. Our travel decisions are often influenced by new birding and photography opportunities, seeking out places that offer solitude and untouched beauty.
Bird photography was my first love and remains my greatest passion. It was through bird photography that I gained recognition and opportunities in the broader photography world. There is something deeply rewarding about capturing the essence of these creatures—their grace, movement, and personalities. Wildlife and landscape photography follow closely behind, each offering unique challenges and joys. While birds demand precision, patience, and an understanding of behavior, landscapes require an eye for composition, light, and atmosphere.
Photography, to me, is more than just capturing beautiful images. It is about storytelling, emotion, and connection. I am drawn to minimalism—seeking extraordinary moments in ordinary places. My approach is not gear-focused; rather, I strive to understand my subjects intimately, anticipate nature’s rhythms, and be ready for the unexpected.
In 2019, my perspective on photography changed dramatically. For the first time, I began to see myself as a serious photographer. Much of this shift was influenced by executive life coach Gustav Gous, who helped me unlock new possibilities. Over time, my ministry, photography, and birding have converged into a unified expression of my life’s calling. Perhaps, at its core, photography is a form of poetry and prayer—a way to see and honor the world’s beauty.
Photography has been an incredible journey—one that started with a gifted Pentax K1000 and has led me to places I never imagined. It continues to challenge, inspire, and fulfill me in ways that words cannot fully capture. Thank you for being part of this journey. I hope my work speaks to you, and I invite you to explore my collection and experience the world through my lens.
