"Journey Beyond the Lens: Capturing the Soul of South Africa's Railways and spectacular Landscapes"
With over a decades worth of railway & travel photographic experience across South Africa, I offer specially customized 'Railfan' Photographic Adventures & Workshops across South Africa.
These Adventures & Workshops can be specifically tailored to your railway photographic desires. From chasing goods and passenger trains across the African veld, to capturing the splendour of our Railway Heritage - I can help you maximize your South African Railway photographic experience!
South Africa has long been celebrated for its breath-taking landscapes and diverse railway journeys on the 'narrow' Cape Gauge standard, drawing spectators from across the globe to marvel at and capture its beauty.
From the majestic mountains and verdant valleys of the Cape to the stark, vast expanse of the Karoo, and from the fertile agricultural lands of the North to the bustling industrial Highveld, South Africa offers a plethora of photographic opportunities.
Despite the modern pressures of the 21st century, our rich railway heritage continues to thrive. Steam operations still enchant enthusiasts, with charming locomotives chugging through various regions of the country. Notably, the Western Cape boasts three active operators, keeping the nostalgic spirit of steam alive and well.
Experience the thrill of crafting your own personalized photographic journey! Whether you're craving a single day adventure or an immersive week-long expedition, our tailored itineraries guarantee you'll return home with a stunning collection of portfolio-worthy shots. Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of our historic railways and the breath-taking beauty of our majestic landscapes. It's time to capture unforgettable moments and unleash your inner photographer!
To customise and book your Railfan Photographic Workshop and Adventure, Contact Me
Terms & Conditions Apply
Sandstone Easter Cosmos Festival Photographic Charter
Friday 3 April & Saturday 4 April 2026
Join myself & Stimela Events for a dedicated photographic charter during the much-loved Sandstone Estates Easter Cosmos Festival, running from 2–6 April in the heart of South Africa’s breathtaking Eastern Free State.
For two exclusive days, we have chartered a vintage Bristol Bus, allowing us to travel to carefully selected locations across the farm with one purpose in mind: pure photography.Sandstone Estates is where scenery and history merge like nowhere else — sweeping Free State landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for steam trains, vintage machinery, and aviation heritage.
What we’ll photograph:
- Regular trains on the Hoekfontein to Grootdraai line
- Steam action alongside vintage vehicles and military convoys
- Run-pasts near the airstrip, with vintage aircraft staged, landing, and taking off
- The Bristol Bus itself as a moving and static photographic prop
- This year’s special addition: Sebb’s Railway, winding through the game reserve in completely different scenery
- Opportunities to capture the Sekonyela Train operating on the far side of the estate
This charter is designed for photographers of all levels, with a relaxed pace and a strong focus on positioning, light, and creating unforgettable images.
Everyone is welcome to join us — whether you are a professional, an amateur, or simply a hobbyist who loves trains, landscapes, and heritage. This is an experience built for anyone wanting to enjoy and capture the magic of Sandstone.
Pricing:
R600 per person, per day
Both days: R1000 total
Maximum: 15 participants per day
Please note: Entrance to Sandstone Estates and the festival is not included in the charter price.
Steam Sundowner at NCCR Wonder Steam Trains
Saturday 28th March 2026
Join myself & Stimela Events for our 2026 Steam Sundowner as we host this unforgettable evening at NCCR Wonder Steam Trains on Saturday, 28 March 2026.
This year promises to be particularly special, with Class 15CA No.2850 and Class 15F No.3117 both in steam — a rare opportunity to photograph two magnificent locomotives side by side in golden-hour and night-time conditions.
Event Timing:
Arrival: 16H00
Start: 16H30
Please note that the event may be delayed slightly depending on the locomotives and crew being ready. The train will be returning earlier that afternoon from Irene, and preparation time may vary accordingly. We appreciate your understanding - authentic steam operations sometimes run on “Africa time”!
What to Expect:
We begin the afternoon with a series of carefully planned run-pasts along the old shunting neck, allowing photographers to capture dramatic action shots in controlled lighting conditions.
Curious about run-pasts? These are orchestrated locomotive movements designed specifically for photography - giving participants the perfect opportunity to position themselves for that ideal composition as the train approaches, passes, and works the line against a scenic backdrop.
As the light softens, No.2850 and No.3117 will move to the shed area, where both locomotives will be staged for sunset photography. Bask in the cool ambiance of the late afternoon and evening, bathed in golden hues - ideal for capturing those quintessential steam effects as light filters through drifting exhaust.
Following a short refreshment break (refreshments available for purchase in the lounge car), we regroup for the highlight of the evening - a night photography session under the stars. With locomotives posed dramatically and the crew assisting with positioning and atmosphere, this session offers incredible creative opportunities. Don’t forget your tripod and night photography gear!
This year the focus remains purely on the locomotives and their dedicated crews - capturing authentic working-steam scenes in a heritage setting.
Who Can Join?
Whether you're a novice, hobbyist, or seasoned photographer, this event caters to all skill levels. Guidance from experienced photographers will be available throughout the afternoon and evening, ensuring an enriching experience for everyone.
Pricing:
R800 per person
Maximum: 20 participants