Iconic Namibia 2015 – Land of the Extremes

Overview

All places on this photographic journey are filled.

Guest Photographer – Hougaard Malan

Capture the expanse of the Namibia landscape to the smallest details in the Namib desert with “one-on-one” tuition by Hougaard Malan as he teaches you how he photographs his signature images. While you will learn a little about technique, Hougaard’s experience in the Namib desert and his inspirational approach to composition of these magnificent landscapes will transform your photography, not merely add to it.

Namibia is a land of big skies and grand vistas blessed with captivating light; a place where uncluttered horizons seem farther away than you have ever imagined. It also a place of solitude and reflection. Recently, Hougaard has photographed the southern desert areas of Namibia, more than anyone else.
In Sossusvlei, as you drive along a desert road the eastern sky blossoms from steely grey to a riot of reds. Silence falls like a blanket when you stop, the sand squeaking underfoot as you begin your ascent of some of the tallest sand dunes on the planet. Without even reaching the summit, the revelation of beauty is startling. Gazing over the ancient landscape, you reflect on the human empires that have risen and fallen under its steady gaze. It is this timeless, striking beauty that makes Sossusvlei one of Africa’s most inspirational places to photograph. Shooting in the presence of a photographer who specialises in this ecosystem is a highlight of this photographic journey.

With an area of just under one million square kilometres and a population density of under 2.5 people per square kilometre, there is hardly another country on the planet where there is such intimate access to the mysterium of life. Namibia is one of the most empty, barren and unbelievably beautiful countries in Africa, perhaps on the planet.

It has an austere, dramatic beauty. The landscapes, wildlife and people evoke and release creativity in your photography.

All the elements of its nature: stones, sands, deserts, dunes, rivers and animals are there anew in the freshest dawn light you will ever come to know. Like few other places, Namibia’s light and colours bring out a sacred presence in the heart of nature. Indeed, it is the very elemental forces you will find in Kaokoveld which inform and elevate creativity as you decide what to include in your frame. You will feel privileged to be here.

You will be treated to some of the most spectacular scenery and nomadic cultures (e.g. the Himba people of Kaokoveld who still dress and live according to ancient customs) .

The country’s coastline is designated a national park! The Namib-Skeleton Coast National Park stretches 1600 kilometres from the Kunene River in the north to the Orange River in the south. It is the only country on earth having its entire coastline protected as a national park. We will travel from the magnificent Fish River Canyon close to the South African border in the south to Angolan border in the north – a truly unique photographic journey.

To capture Namibia’s iconic images generally means a 4WD drive in excess of 4500 kilometres, mostly in desert and mountainous terrain – I have done it three times. Driving such long distances requires time, planning and patience. There is another way – self-drive to each of the best locations the south and use charter aircraft to access the more remote northern locations.

That is what you will experience, if you join us on this photographic extravaganza.