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Exhibition Member Highlights
Buffel
About the image
In 2024, a Southern elephant seal named Buffel arrived at Onrus Beach and stayed for around three weeks while completing his annual moult. I spent time photographing him, patiently watching for those unusual moments that reveal something about his behaviour. One day, I captured him facing directly towards me as he threw sand over himself to protect his body from the scorching sun. As the sand flew into the air, it formed shapes beside him that looked almost like enormous wings or elephant ears. I could never have planned the moment—it simply happened because I was there, watching and waiting. The photograph went on to be published in more than eight newspapers and receive recognition nationally and internationally. More importantly, Buffel taught me the power of patience and observation.
SPECIES:
Southern Elephant Seal
How it was captured
Canon 5D mk3
Canon EF 75-300 f/4.5-5.6 USM
Iso 250
1/1600
f/6.3
Photographer:
Age:
From:
Stefan Botha
18
Western Cape
About the photographer
I’m Stefan Botha, a young South African photographer from Hermanus with a deep love for wildlife and the natural world. My journey into photography began in 2022 when I picked up my father’s camera and quickly discovered that I saw the world differently through a lens. My lifelong fascination with animals, especially those that are misunderstood or feared, naturally became a major part of my photography. I enjoy photographing wildlife, people and the small, unexpected moments that tell a story. Being behind the camera allows me to slow down, observe and share the beauty I see with others. For me, photography is more than creating beautiful images… it is a way of making people feel, become curious and perhaps see the world with a little more love and appreciation.
PHOTOGRAPHER'S QUOTE
Photography is the tool that we must use to save our planet.
CONSERVATION MESSAGE
I hope visitors leave with a greater appreciation for the wildlife that shares our world with us. Every animal, even those we may overlook or misunderstand, has a place and deserves our respect, protection and love.