The Ballito Photo Club’s October meeting, held at Simbithi Country Club, explored the theme “To Edit or Not to Edit.”

The evening opened with a video presentation highlighting that photo editing has been part of photography since the 1800s. The video aimed to challenge negative perceptions of image manipulation, particularly outside of photography circles.

“While ‘photoshopping’ may be frowned upon by some, the video emphasised that editing has always been integral to the photographic process,” said club chairperson Rung Button.

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Following the discussion, the club hosted its monthly competition, judged according to the Photographic Society of South Africa’s ranking system, which allows photographers to progress from one-star to senior levels.

A total of 91 images were entered across nine categories. The Set Subject for the month was “Product Photography.” National judge Merten van Rensburg offered expert critique and adjudication.

Alan Nixon stood out with two category wins. His image Up, Up and Away won Open Mono, praised for its composition and detail. He also took the Set Subject win with Bathroom Lifestyle, earning the Senior Winner title.

Rung Button won Open Colour with Dashes of Red, and Through the Window with Through the Doors, a 2025/26 KZN interclub category.

Other category winners included:

• Shannon Clark – Horntail Wasp (Nature – No Birds)

• Johnny de Beer – Namaqua Lift-off (Nature – Birds Only)

• Lorna Cooke – ICM Swirls (Visual Art)

• Andries Botha – Cape Town Sunset (Scapes and Junior Winner)

• Avril Eshmade – Balanced to Win (Photojournalism & Sport): “This excellent image captured the action, colour, and excitement of surfing,” said Merten.

Aspiring photographers are welcome to join. Contact Rung on 083 289 6806 for more information.

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