You don’t need expensive camera equipment to move from an average photographer to a skilled one. What you do need is a renewed sense of calm and patience – and the willingness to see beauty in the little things around you.
This was the guiding advice of wildlife photographer Thinus van Staden during the recent photography retreat, hosted as part of the Wild & Wise Retreats by the Overberg Renosterveld Trust. The retreat was held on the Haarwegskloof Renosterveld Reserve between Swellendam and Bredasdorp. This nature reserve, managed by the Trust, proved to be the ideal location to slow down, notice nature’s subtle wonders and practice newly learned skills during photography outings.
Learning from a master
During the retreat, Thinus introduced amateur photographers to all aspects of photography – from understanding their gear to finding their unique style. But he went further, showing participants how to approach photography as an art form.
He shared practical tips and techniques, including insights from his signature hide, which allows him to get closer to waterbirds. Thinus’s work has been featured in publications such as Weg!/go! and African Birdlife, showcasing his ability to capture the beauty and drama of wildlife.
Experiencing wildlife up close
Participants were treated to unforgettable encounters with the reserve’s wildlife. A highlight was witnessing a dramatic duel between two male Black Harriers, an Endangered species threatened by habitat loss, climate change and wind turbines. On Haarwegskloof, these enigmatic birds can forage and breed safely.
The retreat also offered sightings of a variety of birds, including Wattled Starlings sporting their breeding plumage, Cape Grassbirds, flitting sunbirds, Grey-winged Francolins and a proud Cape Longclaw. Even Cape Vultures made a special appearance just outside the reserve.
Images: (C) Odette Curtis-Scott
Immersive experiences and community
The three-day, two-night workshop included delicious meals by Dee Robinson of Tuck Tuck ZA, Napier, with her famous Bobotie earning second helpings from delighted participants.
Beyond photography, attendees had opportunities to relax, walk in nature, watch the sunrise with a cup of coffee and spend time in reflective silence. They also formed connections with like-minded nature enthusiasts, enriching the retreat experience.
Reflections from participants
Sonja van Zyl: “Thank you very much Thinus and all the rest of our group. It was a privilege to be able to share and enjoy the weekend with everyone. The company, excitement of being able to observe the harriers with their freedom, delicious meals, rest for the soul, the good accommodation and all the knowledge that I was able to learn from all the pros. May Haarwegskloof only grow and move forward. “
Cecile Perold: “Thank you so much Thinus for a very inspiring weekend and all the other wonderful people. It was wonderful to experience your enthusiasm and passion for nature and photography.”
Odette Curtis-Scott: “It was a privilege to enjoy our beautiful reserve with such a gifted and inspiring photographer, as well as those who attended the retreat. Seeing our facilities and the safe spaces we have secured for renosterveld through the eyes of those seeing it for the first time was heart-warming, as it reminded me of how far we have come. We are so excited about what Haarwegskloof has to offer and hope that many more will take advantage of these unique opportunities to enjoy this precious place.”
Charmel Bence: “I am already missing the beautiful surroundings. I have been digesting the information shared during this weekend and I have been thinking a lot about “why” am I taking the photo.“
Grant Forbes: “The recent photography retreat at Haarwegskloof Renosterveld Reserve, guided by Thinus, gave me a fresh perspective on capturing the natural world through a lens. Thinus’s work is truly inspiring, reflecting his deep appreciation and admiration for nature, and it encouraged me to use my photography to showcase the unique beauty and complexity of renosterveld to others. The retreat reminded me of the importance of intentionality in photography — understanding my equipment, settings and how to reveal the intricate wonders that already exist. Beyond the craft, I rediscovered the joy and playfulness of creating images, seeing photography not just as work, but as an art to enjoy.”
Elsa Levin: “Thanks to all of you and especially Thinus for an unforgettable weekend with so many moments of sheer wonder over the gifts of nature and special people. The colours, fragrances, shades of light and textures and the variety of all these gifts are something to treasure for always. With my small camera and cellphone amongst other enthusiastic people deeply appreciative of and caring for nature – WOW! A highlight was to learn from and create with an artist, wizard and master of photographic art. To take a perfect photo and create a more perfect work of art!”
Images: (C) Grant Forbes
The art of observation
The retreat at Haarwegskloof reminded participants that photography is not just about capturing an image, but it’s also about slowing down, observing carefully and seeing the world through fresh eyes. With guidance from a master and inspiration from the beauty of the Overberg’s renosterveld, this experience left everyone eager to hone their photographic skills.
Image: (C) Heather D’alton, LoveGreen Communications
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An invisible crisis in renosterveld
The tiny relationships holding everything together. Together with fire, these animals drove the structure of the renosterveld ecosystem and the constantly changing ratios of shrubs to grasses.
Tracking young Black Harriers reveals a harsh reality
Every young Black Harrier that leaves the nest faces an uncertain future. For this endangered raptor, the first year of life is the most dangerous – a time when hunger, predators and wildfire can all prove fatal.
Latest Renosterveld News
It’s truly awe-inspiring to see what happens when like-minded people come together around a cause that touches their hearts. When that collective energy fuels efforts to protect our natural world, it carries even more meaning.