2023 WINNERS
Our judges have deliberated the exceptional entries received in 2023 and
have chosen the winners for the 2023 South African Photographer of the Year.
OVERALL WINNER
Linda Ness – Shark Portal
AFRICA
From the greatest of apes to the smallest of birds – we want to see it all.
Nabila Wissanji – Walking on clouds
YOUNG POTY
The Young South African POTY awarded photograph showcased a striking and memorable image by a junior photographer under the age of 18.
Jaime Freeman – Dwarf on a giant
MAMMALS
From elephant shrews to elephants, from honey badgers to bats. This category called for photos that express the animals‘ character and share a unique insight into their individuality.
AMATEUR
Gary Cusins – Emaciated Aardvark
PROFESSIONAL
Lance van de Vyver – Frenzy
LANDSCAPES
The photography in this category ranged from the cultural landscape at our doorstep to remote regions all across South Africa.
AMATEUR
Hein Kotze – Sandscapes
PROFESSIONAL
Nick Joubert – Kogelberg kings
BIRDS
This category is aimed to showcase the incredible diversity of the birdlife South Africa has to offer. From common garden birds to the rarest of species; we saw it all.
AMATEUR
Louis Groenewald – Dancing in the light
PROFESSIONAL
Lance van de Vver – What did you call me
BLACK AND WHITE
This years category showcased the creativity and innovation required to inspire when it comes to black and white photography.
AMATEUR
Veronique Pretorius – Turning tail
PROFESSIONAL
Andrew Aveley – Claimed by nature
ANIMALS IN THE ENVIRONMENT
Evoking atmosphere and a sense of place – with the habitat as a major element of the picture. We searched for images that portrayed the importance of the environment and ecosystems that sustain the wildlife within them.
AMATEUR
Michiel Duvenhage – Cub in dust storm
PROFESSIONAL
Andrew Aveley – The herd
WATER
The blue planet: 71% of its surface is covered by water. Oceans, rivers and lakes accommodate an infinite abundance of life. This category gave us an insight into a hidden world with its animals, plants and habitats both fresh and salt water.
AMATEUR
Linda Ness – Shark portal
PROFESSIONAL
Deon Kelbrick – Chameleon at night in the rain
CLOSE UP
Show us a fresh perspective on the everyday, unveiling the hidden wonders that exist within the grander scenes.
AMATEUR
Hendrik Louw – The undertaker
PROFESSIONAL
Matt Pretorius – Mopani bridge
