Sodwana Bay on the KwaZulu-Natal coast, is a world-renowned diving destination. Each year, divers laden with lenses, housings and strobes migrate there to claim the esteemed Sodwana Shootout Overall Winner title. Menacing glances are exchanged, but only momentarily as drinks are quickly opened and banter begins and memories of old friendships return.
The iSimangaliso Sodwana Shootout Festival will celebrate its 14th year in September 2013, further establishing it as one of Africa’s premier underwater film and photographic competitions, open to novice, amateur and professional photographers. It’s unique in that only footage and images shot during the four-day competition at Sodwana Bay are eligible to be judged. While this levels the playing field somewhat, great photos are produced in the various categories, with some cool prizes on offer.
In order to grow the event the competition has been restructured to recognise a wider range of photographers; 2012 saw the evolution from an underwater photographic shootout to a family festival to include all ages, especially kids. Apart from photo workshops and demonstrations, activities such as volleyball, sand sculpture, kiteboarding, eco adventures, environmental education and a beach clean-up were included for all non-divers.
‘We were very excited about 2012’s event and are proud to see it grow to being the biggest ever,’ says event organiser Gabby Metcalf. ‘Our goal is to promote learning and interaction around photography, videography and conservation.’
As with all activities in the iSimangaliso Event Series (which includes various annual adventure sports events), the intention is to offer visitors different ways to interact with and experience this World Heritage Site, while increasing awareness of the need to conserve our delicate natural resources. A portion of all entry fees is allocated directly to the iSimangaliso Rare and Endangered Species Conservation Fund, aimed at the introduction, monitoring and protection of these species within the wetland park.
To get involved in this event, keep your calendar open during the school holidays in September 2013. Visit www.shootout. co.za for more information.
