GALLERY: The art of making a snap decision

THE Northglen News’ ‘Photo of the Week’ feature has been a hit with the north Durban community. Each week we call on our readers, both young and old, to send through photos they’ve taken that stand out for them.

The photos could be of nature, flowers or just breathtaking scenery. You don’t have to be a professional to feature in the paper. As an extension of that feature, once a month, the newspaper will be interviewing amateur, budding and professional photographers to gain an insight into why they do what they do.

This week features Greenwood Park resident, Kyle Woodenberg.

Q1: Among your photos, which one is your favorite and why?

“My favourite picture was taken last week at Suncoast Beach. I just love the way the hadeda, that’s caught in the morning light looks almost transformed into a phoenix or an eagle. I just can’t help but think, that a lowly hadeda can be transformed by exposing itself to the light. It doesn’t matter where you come from, what situation you grew up in, what religion or race you are. If you expose yourself to the right light, you will soar like an eagle. It is just so inspirational for me.

Q2: What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started taking photos?

“Never compare your images. Your images are meant to inspire you and those around you. Comparison is the biggest thief of joy when it comes to the art of photography. It is so easy to get side-tracked with comparison because there are so many competitions out there. Photography is a subjective art and if you are happy with your image, that is all that matters.”

Q3: Are you the type of photographer who sticks to one brand and does one need fancy equipment to shoot a great shot?

“Absolutely not. The digital world is a dynamic and ever evolving ecosystem and if you are going to keep up with the latest technology you cannot be brand loyal. I remember my first camera was a full frame Kodak DCS Pro 14N. At the time, it was state of the art and I absolutely loved the colour science and features, fast forward 10 years and the Kodak Brand is no more. Nikon now heads the Photography advancements and you have to roll with these improvements to stay ahead of the game.”

Q4: What motivates you to continue taking pictures?

“So motivation in the photography world would be called inspiration. I have a God given talent to take amazing pictures of people and freeze moments filled with Joy. It’s my gift and it comes naturally to me and I can definitely say that if I did not find my passion I would not be alive today. I am so grateful for the gift God has given me and inspiration comes directly from him.”

Q5: What technology/software/camera gear do you use to keep focused on what you do best, as you photograph?

“My most important piece of equipment is my 50mm lens. It allows me to frame the world at a perspective that the human eye can best translate. There are not too many elements in the frame and you only catch what you need. This simplicity is the hallmark of my photography and this is the one piece of equipment that I cannot do without.”

Q6: What makes a good photograph?

“Every image has a story. I’d hate to make one story more important than the rest. They are all beautiful and unique in their own way and all have significance to me. One that really stands out for me is the picture of the lightening at Blue Lagoon. Blue Lagoon is favourite place in Durban and this long shutter image makes me really feel proud to be a Durbanite.”

Q7: What advice would you give to an amateur photographer wanting to change their passion into a full-time profession? Do they need fancy equipment?

“Connection is everything. If you connect with your subject, the image takes care of itself. Don’t fuss with lighting and equipment and all the other technicalities, these mean nothing. If you are looking to progress and develop your art make sure you have a connection with your subject. This allows you to focus on the vision you would like to attain with the image you are about to take.”

Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting

Dear reader,
As your local news provider, we have the duty of keeping you factually informed on Covid-19 developments. As you may have noticed, mis- and disinformation (also known as “fake news”) is circulating online. Caxton Local Media is determined to filter through the masses of information doing the rounds and to separate truth from untruth in order to keep you adequately informed. Local newsrooms follow a strict pre-publication fact-checking protocol. A national task team has been established to assist in bringing you credible news reports on Covid-19.
Readers with any comments or queries may contact National Group Editor Irma Green (irma@caxton.co.za) or Legal Adviser Helene Eloff (helene@caxton.co.za).

You can also sign up for news alerts on Telegram. Send us a Telegram message (not an SMS) with your name and surname (ONLY) to 060 532 5532.  

Here’s where you can download Telegram on Android or Apple.