POWER OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography has always been more than just capturing images; it's a medium that holds within it the power to transform lives in unexpected ways. It can provide opportunities, change perspectives, and empower individuals to tell their own stories through the lens.

At Lowepro, we believe in the power of photography and the ability of photographers to drive meaningful change through their art, inspiring action.

Our collaboration with the South African NGO, Wild Shots Outreach (WSO), stands as a testament to the transformative power of photography and the profound impact it can have on both individuals and entire communities. 

Partnership with Wild Shots Outreach  

Wild Shots Outreach (WSO) is an award-winning non-profit organization connecting disadvantaged young South Africans with nature through photography. Their mission is to inspire, uplift, and nurture the next generation of African photographers and conservationists.

In our latest collaboration, WSO partnered with Lowepro to support young photographers, challenging them with the new Lowepro Pro Trekker 650 AW II for a professional photo assignment.

The results were extraordinary. These photographers discovered the boundless potential of their craft, showing how a single camera can unlock endless possibilities. 

Telling stories through the lens

Let's delve into the inspiring journeys of four young talents who shared their experiences and the profound influence of photography on their lives.  

Rifumo Mathebula

WSO Programme Leader, Young Environmentalist of the Year 2022

"We teach conservation through photography. We are giving the young people the opportunity to see the wildlife with their own eyes. I want to connect young people with our natural heritage – we’re the future of African conservation”.

Rifumo Mathebula discovered the gift of storytelling through photography. His camera became his voice, expressing his unique experiences and perspectives. Through his lens, he shared thoughts, emotions, and experiences with the world.

His passion earned him recognition as one of the "30 under 30 Global Environmental Education leaders" by NAAEE (North American Association for Environmental Education), and he won the international Young Environmentalist of the Year Award in 2022.

His journey serves as a shining example of how photography can amplify a young leader's impact on the world. 

Karabo Magakane

WSO Assistant Programme Leader and Pilot

"Through the lens, I am changing the narrative. I want to break ground in the world of aviation and photography and do things that no black female has ever done, inspiring young South Africans from disadvantaged backgrounds to follow their dreams".

Photography transformed Karabo Magakane's life. After taking the WSO course in Feb 2020, she assisted with photo assignments and community programs. Through the Lowepro Pro Trekker 650 AW II project, she captured breathtaking images, uncovering hidden beauty and instilling pride. Karabo is now a qualified pilot thanks to help from the WSO Bursary Fund. She aspires to fly for conservation.  

Light Ngomane

Filmmaking Student

"Holding a camera for the very first time changed my life – it triggered my love for photography and storytelling. Thanks to Wild Shots Outreach’s Bursary Fund, I am now graduating from film school."

Light Ngomane, a filmmaking student, found self-expression behind the camera, but fate pushed him in front of it during the Lowepro Pro Trekker project. This journey showcased his talent and demonstrates the doors that videography can open for young and aspiring talents.

Light Ngomane's story is a stark reminder of how opportunities like these are limited for many young people in disadvantaged communities. It's organizations like Wild Shots Outreach that bridge this gap, giving young minds the chance to explore wildlife and conservation through the lens. 

Melody Mnisi

Nature Guide

“I never could have imagined this is how my life could turn out! Now it’s my dream to introduce young people to nature and to inspire young African women like me to believe anything is possible”. 

Melody Mnisi, a qualified nature guide, found immense pride in her involvement with the Lowepro Pro Trekker project. This journey offered her a fresh perspective on the world, expanding her horizons. 

Photography not only enriched her life but also opened doors to modelling, demonstrating how a single photograph can create new opportunities. The experience with and support from WSO inspired Melody to pursue a career as a nature guide, a testament to photography's profound impact. 

For Melody, photography has been a transformative journey, igniting a newfound passion and purpose. It served as a beacon of hope, guiding her towards a brighter future. 

Embracing the Transformative Potential of Photography: Join Us in Making a Difference 

The Lowepro and Wild Shots Outreach collaboration is a beacon of hope, showcasing photography's transformative potential for people from all walks of life. It highlights the significance of organizations like Wild Shots Outreach, offering a path for disadvantaged communities to explore their potential through photography. 

Through WSO, lives have changed, dreams realized, and a shared passion for photography has kindled hope in many hearts.  
It serves as a reminder that each of us can make a difference—one photograph at a time. 

At Lowepro, we believe in the power of photography and photographers driving meaningful change through their art, inspiring action and awareness. Photography has the unique ability to motivate people to act, and we're proud to be part of this impactful movement.  

TAKE ACTION.

The Pro Trekker 650 Photoshoot Results