Ballito photographer captures raw power of nature

Monster waves pounded the coastline last week, drawing daredevil surfers and delighting photographers like Stephen Gore.

Holiday rentals have been few and far between but that has not stopped Stephen from continuing his greatest passion.

Ballito local since 1995, Stephen is married to his camera (and his wife, Cary), and despite having never taking it up professionally, he jokes that he may have to after lockdown.

It was when he was photographing apartments for rental that Stephen discovered his hobby.

“I realised that there was so much more I could do with a camera, it’s been a passion ever since.”

Having relocated from Johannesburg, Stephen said he fell in love with the Ballito lifestyle and has never looked back. He also dabbles in landscape and astro-photography and despite not having much of a budget for travel, he makes the best of the stunning surrounds the Dolphin Coast offers.

“I shoot pretty much anything and everything with a documentary/candid style. But I try to focus on action sports.”

If his photos of the sea last Tuesday are anything to go by, Stephen’s future career possibilities are looking good.

“I was following the surf and sizable swell which I could hear from home. I grabbed my kit and headed to the beach between Salmon Bay and Surfers in front of La Montagne.”

There he found enormous waves of about 7 foot and caught the madcap surfers in action.

What Stephen loves most about photography is how it spurs his sense of adventure as he continues to find new and amazing subjects.

“It makes you stop and appreciate the beauty of the world around you.”

To stay up-to-date with Stephen’s photographic adventures, follow his Instagram account at @fstop_fpv.

Stephen’s tips for beginners:

• Trust your gear, and learn how it works without giving up. Just keep shooting.

• Sometimes it’s not about the camera you have, but rather what kind of story you can tell with it. Some of the best shots I have seen were cell phone photos.

• Learn about light and composition, as this will add great impact to your photos.

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