Author: shawn
Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Global Launch
The global launch product showcase for the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 lens, filmed in South Africa
Rhino Sands Safari Camp
A promotional video for the beautiful Rhino Sands Safari Camp situated 3 hours north of Durban in Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa.
South Africa
One of the most beautiful countries in the world and I get to call it home!
The diversity of South Africa’s landscapes is what peaked my interest in photography, as I wanted to capture what I saw. The whole notion of using what you have is really how I started. I had a beautiful environment and a smartphone, then what resulted was the beginning of my career in travel photography.
I got to practice my craft in places like the Drakensburg Mountains, in KwaZulu-Natal, as it was a drive away. As my skills improved the opportunities to travel to other parts of the country came. This took me beyond the golden beaches of Durban to the manicured winelands of the Western Cape. I had become a tourist in my own country as I got to experience the awe of seeing Table Mountain for the first time. The best part was being able to capture these scenes and have it be a part of other’s experiences.
The photos I took brought on new opportunities, like working for South African Tourism. This client opened up more doors within South Africa and I got to share the beauty of it.
I guess this is how my career has continued to grow. I get to share my experiences and encourage others to explore what is around them. This has not only benefitted individuals, but clients and the communities involved.
South Africa has taught me to notice beauty, even in the less obvious. It’s also taught me to find a way of adding value to the lives of others with the skills I have. Whether that’s photography, videography, a unique skillset, contacts or mentorship, I’m grateful to this country for giving me perspective.
If you live here or even visit South Africa one day you too will come to know of the diverse cultures, landscapes and friendly people.
Featured image:
The featured image is of Blyde River Canyon, the third largest Canyon on earth. It is located within the Panorama route of South Africa, which is one of the most beautiful parts of the country.
Gear used:
Iceland
The land of fire and ice!
As a travel photographer who has grown up along the beautiful golden beaches of Durban, South Africa, visiting Iceland was a surreal experience.
The volcanic black sand beaches, snow capped mountains and ancient glaciers need to be seen to be believed.
The featured image is of the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) the main reason we chose to visit Iceland. We dared not speak about it out loud due to the somewhat elusive nature of this natural phenomenon. It was a true privilege not to just see the Aurora but have the opportunity to photograph it. I was brought to tears, to this day it is still the most incredible thing I have ever witnessed.
Iceland was a completely different/contrasting type of natural beauty to anything I’ve ever seen.