The Sasol Highveld Photography Club (SHPC), renowned for its dedication to photographic excellence and the personal development of its members, recently held its monthly club meeting with great success. The meeting, which took place in July 2025, brought together club members, guests, and respected guest judge Mr. Peter Cavanaugh, for an evening of creative appreciation, critique, and community engagement.
With 61 entries submitted across a wide range of photographic categories, the evening provided a compelling showcase of local photographic talent. Categories included Nature, Photojournalism, Monochrome, Pictorial, Scapes, Nature – Birds Only, and the Set Subject. Each image presented a unique narrative, style, or technique, affirming the diverse interests and evolving capabilities of the club’s membership.
Recognising Talent and Growth
June’s top performers were celebrated during the meeting:
- Senior Winner: Mr. Peter Winnan
- Junior Winner: Ms. Hanlie de Beer
Their recognition reflects SHPC’s emphasis on continuous improvement through constructive critique. Members are encouraged to grow not only through competition but through active engagement with judges feedback and fellow members insights.
The club employs a grading system to track members’ development. Entrants are scored and assigned award levels based on their skill level. These range from Bronze (awarded when key technical or creative elements are missing), to Silver, Gold, and ultimately the prestigious Certificate of Merit (COM), granted when a photograph excels in both execution and artistic impact.
PSSA News and Achievements
The July meeting also featured updates on ongoing and upcoming Photographic Society of South Africa (PSSA) events and competitions. Noteworthy achievements by SHPC members in recent competitions were acknowledged, including:
- Sussa Pelser “ Albino White Lip Tree Viper (35)
- Leon Pelser “ Thunder and Lighthouse (35)
- DNE Smit “ Blouberg Blue Hour (37)
- Louis van der Walt “ Rain Spider (32)
- Yolandi Geyser “ Bee Painting (29)
These results reflect the consistent participation and competitive standard of the SHPC at national level. Members were reminded to select Sasol Highveld Photography Club as their nominated club when entering PSSA salons and competitions.
Interclub Participation and Upcoming Salons
Preparations and participation for the PSSA Interclub Competition 2025 were also highlighted. The club submitted 117 images across four major categories, and 33 entries under the Open – Senior and Open – Junior divisions. Members are encouraged to continue engaging with upcoming PSSA salons and external photography events as part of their creative journey.
A Club Built on Passion and Support
Beyond technical skill, SHPC places great value on enjoyment, mentorship, and community spirit. By fostering an environment where members receive feedback from experienced judges and peers, the club ensures that both new and seasoned photographers are given equal opportunity to learn and grow.
Members are also reminded to update their personal information such as birthdays on Photovault to ensure they receive appropriate recognition and communication.
Contact and Enquiries
For more information about the club, upcoming events, or grading and membership queries, please contact:
Louis van der Walt
+27 (72) 755 2767
Whether hobbyist or professional, every member of the Sasol Highveld Photography Club is encouraged to pursue their photographic passion with curiosity, courage, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Here are the winning photographs for July:
The best set subject is “Wave backflip” by DNE Smit
The best Junior is Yolandi Geyser with “Pony”
The best Senior is DNE Smit with “The sorceress helper”
Here are the COM and GOLD certificates
Category – Nature – Birds only
Category – Set Subject
Category – Photojournalism
Category – Pictorial
Category – Nature
Category – Monochrome
Category – Scapes
