Stroopsoet.Fotografie {feature}

Photography has always been a passion of mine. It truly is an art, it captures the most important moments of your life, your beautiful surroundings. It tells a story, gives you a glimpse into your past and lasts forever. People all over the world are obsessed with it! And o gosh, if I had the means I would buy the biggest, most complicated camera and fidget with it until I had it all figured out. In the mean time, I live vicariously through the many talented photographers the country has to offer.

One such photographer is Marleen, who started lifestyle and wedding photography company Stroopsoet.Fotografie. This is her story.

Marleen, your photos are enchanting! How long have you been doing this?

I have been taking pictures ever since I can remember but been doing it professionally for 5 years.

Your images inspire me to pick up my camera and learn the tricks of the trade.

Where do you find inspiration?

Joburg city. People find it strange how I enjoy taking pics there on a "off" day. But I see beauty through my lens in the strangest places.

The local photography scene can be quite competitive. How do you perceive the creative landscape?

Absolutely refreshing. It is growing year by year and I am so grateful that most creatives stick tot local inspiration rather than commercialising their work.

I am so proud to be part of South Africa's creative adventures.

But being your own boss is also challenging. What are you biggest challenges?

My biggest challenge is setting business hours and to disconnect from work. Work just never stops when you have your own business. But, if you enjoy it, you cannot really call it "work".

What would you do if you won the lotto?

Travel to every country possible and buy unlimited polaroid films :)

Where to from here?

We have some awesome adventures coming next year. a Little Stroopsoet baby :)

I am hoping my photography can take me to different opportunities so that I do not spend so much time away from home over the weekends with wedding. I will never stop doing weddings, beautiful being part of celebrations of love but just slow it down a little bit.

Congratulations! Besides the baby, what would you say was one of your biggest achievements?

Definitely being featured in the awesome indie travel magazine - Slow Drive. I am a wanderlust soul and to capture these soulful adventures have always been a dream for me.

It was an amazing feeling seeing my name and stories in the magazine with some of my travels to Botswana, Namibia, Transkei and Zanzibar.