Embracing Photography: A Journey from Saddles to Stories

Discover the transformative journey of a former saddle maker turned photographer and videographer in South Africa. From crafting saddles to capturing stories, explore his evolution through gear upgrades, consultations with industry experts like Lourens Botha, and overcoming personal challenges. Embrace his commitment to authentic storytelling and the profound impact of visual artistry on connecting with the world. Theus Badenhorst

Let's start at the beginning. My journey into photography and videography was far from conventional. Formerly a saddle maker and horseman involved in various equine disciplines, my life took a dramatic turn when I decided to pivot into the world of visual storytelling.

From Saddle Maker to Storyteller

For over a decade, I immersed myself in the craft of saddle making, designing my own line of saddles from scratch. It was a solitary pursuit that demanded meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship. Despite my initial passion, I eventually realized the limitations of running a small-scale business in South Africa. The solitary nature of the work and the constraints on production output pushed me to reconsider my career path.

Awakening Through Photography

Simultaneously, a profound spiritual journey unfolded, opening my eyes to the beauty and intricacy of the world around me. This newfound awareness compelled me to capture and share these revelations visually. Armed initially with just a cell phone, I began photographing everything that caught my attention – people, animals, nature, and everyday moments. These humble beginnings marked the inception of my transformation from craftsman to creator.

Early Days with Sony A6000

Five years ago, on my birthday, my brother gifted me a Sony A6000 camera, equipped with two kit lenses. This marked a pivotal moment in my journey as a photographer. With this versatile tool, I explored the realms of photography and videography, honing my skills and discovering new perspectives. The A6000's capabilities, from HD video to its reliable autofocus, served me well during my formative years.

Evolving Gear and Expertise

As my passion and proficiency grew, I expanded my gear with a Sigma 56mm f/1.4 lens, which became my primary lens for the next three years. This period was marked by continuous learning, experimenting with different settings, and pushing the boundaries of what I could capture with my Sony setup. Despite occasional challenges, like adjusting to different focal lengths during events, my dedication to manual focus for portraits and product photography remained unwavering.

Transition to Sony A7R5

In November 2023, I upgraded to the Sony A7R5, a decision influenced by its superior capabilities for commercial photography and videography. Accompanied by a selection of lenses tailored to various shooting scenarios, including the Sony 35mm f/1.4 and 70-200mm f/2.8, this upgrade marked a significant milestone in my professional journey. The transition allowed me to tackle diverse projects with enhanced clarity and creative freedom.

Consultation with Lourens Botha

Amidst these advancements, I faced a pivotal moment in my career where I sought clarity on my future direction. Consulting with Lourens Botha, a seasoned consultant specializing in guiding artists and small business owners, proved instrumental. His insights and reflective approach helped crystallize my aspirations and refine my strategic focus. Through our discussions, I reaffirmed my commitment to documentary-style photography, aiming to capture authentic stories that resonate on a deeper level.

Niche Exploration and Career Development

Navigating the photography landscape in South Africa posed its challenges, particularly in a market where versatility often trumps specialization. Despite this, I successfully diversified my portfolio into two distinct categories: event coverage and product photography. Each segment showcases my ability to adapt to different client needs while maintaining a cohesive artistic vision.

Building a Digital Presence

Central to my professional growth was the development of my online portfolio using ShopStar, a versatile platform that allowed me to showcase my work effectively. This platform not only served as a digital storefront but also facilitated direct engagement with clients and enthusiasts alike. Through strategic SEO implementation and a streamlined user experience, my website became a pivotal tool in attracting new opportunities and collaborations.

Overcoming Personal Challenges

Beyond technical and professional achievements, my journey has been marked by personal resilience. A recent health setback, resulting in partial facial paralysis known as Bell's palsy, posed unexpected challenges during shoots. Adapting to this new reality required innovative approaches, such as wearing an eye patch to manage discomfort and maintain focus. Despite these hurdles, my commitment to photography remains steadfast, driven by a deep-seated passion for storytelling through images.

Looking Ahead

As I continue to evolve as a photographer and videographer, my focus remains on capturing compelling narratives and pushing creative boundaries. From documenting local communities to collaborating with international NGOs, each project fuels my desire to make a meaningful impact through visual storytelling.

Conclusion

My journey from saddle maker to storyteller has been a testament to perseverance, passion, and the transformative power of visual artistry. Through photography, I have found not only a profession but a profound way to connect with the world and inspire others. As I look forward to future projects and endeavors, I invite you to join me on this journey of exploration and creativity.