Photos, family and fun at the Sodwana Shootout Posted on 28 January 2013 Tags:Africa, KwaZulu-Natal 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. Related Posts The Marine welcomes festival goers at the Fynarts festival 30 May 2023 Hermanus will be hosting the 11th FynArts Festival from 10 to 19 June 2023. The programme includes... read more 7 countries that celebrate Easter differently to South Africa 2 April 2023 Here's how some nations are observing the Easter holiday in colourful, epic and sometimes head-scratchingly... read more The Laailou Music Festival is coming to Paarl this November 21 October 2022 There's a new Afrikaans festival on the block! The TopWineRoots Laailou Music Festival is gearing... read more PREV ARTICLE NEXT ARTICLE
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