Ballito Photo Club’s May meeting opened with an inspiring presentation on astrophotography by renowned photographer and tour leader Emil von Maltitz.

Durban-based Von Maltitiz, who leads photographic tours to premier locations across southern Africa, shared practical insights into capturing the night sky, resonating strongly with fellow snappers.

“His talk on how to photograph the stars and particularly the Milky Way was fascinating,” said Ballito Photo Club chairperson, Rung Button.

“It is a highly technical genre of photography but done right, creates some incredible photographs.”

The evening also featured a showcase of 99 images, judged in advance by accredited judge Anton la Grange from Mossel Bay. The competition produced a range of standout images across multiple categories.

Brian Roberts claimed the Mono category and was named Overall Senior Winner for Giraffe Play Fight.

The judge remarked that it was a brilliant piece of art, well-planned and perfectly captured: “The image has mood and impact because of your technical execution,” said La Grange.

Nicola Paul dominated several categories, winning Nature (No Birds) with Pollen Eater, Set Subject (Abstract Macro) with Canna Abstract, and Visual Art with Beach Huts.

Nicola’s Pollen Eater was described by La Grange as “amazing! … and a good story telling image with impact.”

Other winners included Avril Eshmade (Team of One, Birds), Nicolette Forbes (When the Sky Breathes, Open Colour), and Caro Smith (Sacred Baobabs, Scapes), each earning praise for strong storytelling and technical execution.

Anita Daly took the Overall Junior title with Sand Dune Patterns. “It is brilliant, artistic and simplistic, with mood and impact,” added La Grange.

The club meets monthly at Simbithi Country Club and welcomes new members.

For more information, contact Rung on 083 289 6806.