Durban North photographer recognised at international comp
Branson Meaker's image featured in an exhibition at the Montphoto International Photographic Competition in Spain.
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FOR a second year running, Durban North resident, Branson Meaker has had a stunning wildlife photo feature in the Montphoto International Photographic Competition in Spain.
Meaker featured in the top six youth awards at the competition for his image, ‘Elephant Feet’ taken at the Mashatu Game Reserve in Botswana.
“It is a huge honour for me as this is the second year running a photo I’ve taken has featured. I feel any international recognition helps boost your confidence as a young photographer and it’s great to be appreciated. It has been a tough year in terms of visiting the bush and taking photos due to the Covid-19 pandemic, however, now that the regulations have been relaxed I will be hoping to add to my photo gallery for upcoming competitions,” he explained.
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The Clifton College learner also explained the idea behind his photo that gained him recognition.
“This photo was taken from one of the photographic hides at the Mashatu Game Reserve and I had booked an early morning slot because the light is great for photos. A big herd of elephants happened to pass by and were approaching the water to drink. In a photo I can stop time and look carefully at detail that my eye would possibly miss.
“The herd were very relaxed which allowed me time to take interesting images I didn’t want to just get a photo of the elephant herd at a watering hole because there are so many photos that offer that view. Instead I focused on their feet and after some time I noticed the water dropping from their trunks and bouncing off the surface of the water. I felt it offered a different perspective,” he said.
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