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The HeART of the Cape Town Carnival – Workshop Tour
On Thursday, 12 February 2026, the story began in motion. We gathered at the V&A Waterfront and boarded the bright red City Sightseeing bus; laughter carried on the wind. From the top deck, the city stretched out in postcard views — some braving the open roof and gusts of sea air, others opting for shelter below. It felt like the overture to something colourful and alive. But the real magic waited inside the workshop. The bus hummed forward — and with it, so did the sense that something colourful and alive awaited us. First Strokes of HeART Before we even stepped inside the workshop, creativity was already unfolding. Just outside…
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Follow Your HeART: A Photographer’s View from the Cape Town Carnival Launch
On a windswept January afternoon, Cape Town reminded us why she dances even when the world feels unsteady. High above the city, inside the Media24 building, the launch of the 2026 Cape Town Carnival unfolded as a living, breathing preview of what awaits us in March. Outside, the wind tugged at the skyline. Inside, colour, movement and laughter filled the room. From a photographer’s perspective, it was impossible not to feel it immediately: this was not just a media launch, it was a moment of intention. Sequins caught the light mid-laugh. Feathered headpieces brushed the air. Bare feet and glittering heels shared the same stage. Every frame carried energy —…
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Field Notes: Shooting with ORMS and Sony at Aquila Safari Lodge
A day at Aquila Safari Lodge with ORMS and Sony Alpha South Africa — wildlife, dust, quiet moments, and a first field test of the Sony Alpha 7CR.
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Lambert’s Bay Bird Island – Where the Gannets Rule and the Ocean Roars
Just 100 metres off the rugged west coast of South Africa, Bird Island sits like a tiny kingdom of feathers and waves. Connected to the mainland by a harbour wall, the short walk to the island is an adventure in itself. The ocean puts on a dramatic show, crashing against the dolosse lining the breakwater—a humbling reminder of nature’s relentless power. On calm days, the stroll is a breeze. On rough days? Let’s just say you might rethink your life choices halfway across. Bird Island is one of only six sites worldwide where Cape Gannets breed, and it’s the only one easily accessible to the public. This makes it a…
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Behind the Scenes of the Cape Town Carnival: Where Magic Comes to Life
As the countdown to the Cape Town Carnival begins, the city’s creative pulse quickens. Nestled in the heart of Maitland, the Cape Town Carnival Workshop is a hive of activity, where artists, designers, performers, and artisans are hard at work bringing this year’s WowZA! theme to life. On a sunny Tuesday in February, we stepped inside this world of glitter, steel, and boundless creativity to uncover the magic behind one of Cape Town’s most dazzling events. From the moment we arrived, the workshop felt like stepping into a kaleidoscope of colour and energy. Energetic entertainers in vibrant carnival outfits greeted us, setting the tone for a day filled with inspiration. The entrance,…
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Photo Finish: A night of rugby, records, and women breaking barriers.
On Thursday evening, 19 September 2024, I had the privilege of photographing the South Africa vs Spain women’s rugby match at the iconic DHL Stadium in Cape Town. It was a moment I had long dreamed of — standing fieldside, camera in hand, ready to capture the electric energy of this thrilling encounter. In a field traditionally dominated by men, being one of the three female photographers there made the experience even more special.
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Haylee & Bianca – Wedding 10 Aug 2024
A Celebration of Love and Unity: Haylee and Bianca’s Beautiful Union On a very rainy day in August, friends, family, and colleagues gathered together to celebrate the beautiful union of two amazing women, Haylee and Bianca, at Jack Black Brewery Co in Cape Town. From early morning, the venue buzzed with activity as loved ones put the final touches in place—hair and makeup, floral arrangements, seating setups, and capturing heartfelt moments between mothers, daughters, and best friends. Despite the rain, the warmth and joy of the occasion radiated throughout, embodying the essence that Love is Love, transcending any weather and embracing the day with open hearts. The ceremony was thoughtfully themed…
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Night with the Stars – The Honeybun foundation
The Honeybun Foundation held their annual fundraising event, “A Night with the Stars,” at the Baxter Theatre on May 4th. This year’s event was particularly special as it coincided with the foundation’s 10th anniversary. The evening was skilfully MC’d by the witty Tracey Lange and Natasha van der Merwe, setting the tone for a night of celebration and purpose. Attendees had the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets, with incredible prizes up for grabs, all in support of the foundation’s noble cause. The lineup of talented performers, including Jimmy Nevis, Liam van der Heyde, Kurt Schoonraad, Carletheia, and Liam Burger, made the evening an unforgettable experience. Their performances brought joy and…
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Aamiena & Uwais – Wedding
Aamiena and Uwais: A Celebration of Love and Tradition In April, we had the privilege of capturing the beautiful union of Aamiena and Uwais, a day filled with love, tradition, and stunning scenery. The day began at the mosque, where the official ceremony and contract signing took place. In keeping with tradition, the men sat in the front area while the women were seated just a little further back. The serene atmosphere of the mosque provided a perfect setting for the sacred union, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey together. Following the ceremony, the couple and their families prepared for the day’s celebrations. Aamiena changed into a breathtakingly adorned…
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Cape Town Carnival 2024 – A look at the magic happening behind the scenes.
Photographer: Benita (van As) Evans Cape Town Carnival 2024’s theme was LEKKER. The creative energy that is present in Cape Town was clear on the day of the carnival. A buzzing of activity, bright colours, laughter and excitement filled the day. The happenings and people behind the scenes with all the hard work that makes the carnival great. The Cape Town Carnival was launched in 2010 and it has become a popular platform for community arts and culture, self-expression and wacky art. The Cape Town Carnival brings together people from all walks of live to experience and celebrate the energy and creativity of the people of Cape Town. “The Cape…
Whispers Through the Lens – by the red haired photographer – Benita Van As.
