LOU COETZER
Mentor
Immersed in capturing nature's untamed beauty, I'm Lou Coetzer, a seasoned wildlife photographer and mentor with an incredible 54 years behind the lens. Hailing from the heart of South Africa, I've not only lived and travelled across our magnificent continent but have been deeply moved by the enchanting tales that the natural world unfolds.
My lens has focused on the majestic wildlife of Africa and beyond, earning me numerous accolades, including the prestigious “MAMMAL WILDLIFE BEHAVIOUR” Award at the BBC Natural History Museum International Competition in 2013.
I’ve been honoured with the Top 10 Award in the “Africa” category at Nature’s Best America Photographic Awards. In 2012, I secured the overall winner title in the “BIRDS AS ART” International Photographic Competition.
Two highly regarded awards in the “Africa” category. Nature’s Best America Photographic Awards (2012)
Honoured by Nature’s Best America Photographic Awards for outstanding work. (2010, 2011)
1st Runner up “Animal Behaviour” & “Animal General” +2x Top 10 certificates in both categories. Getaway & Fuji Film Photographic Awards ( 2007,2008)
2nd Runner up, 1st Runner up and Overall Winner Allied Bank SA Sports Photographer of the Year ( 1991,1992,1993)
With a profound connection to Africa, I’ve mastered three photographic disciplines and authored two published books, each a testament to my dedication to pictorial storytelling. Over the years, I’ve witnessed the breath-taking ambience, encountered majestic wildlife, and engaged with warm and wonderful people during safaris across Africa and other splendid destinations. The tranquillity engraved in the soul after an African safari is an experience that lingers forever.
Grateful for the journey, I eagerly look forward to sharing my passion and love for the natural world with those on the mentorship program and upcoming safari clients. The support of my fantastic social media audience, cheering me on front and centre, adds a layer of joy to my photographic endeavours.
Africa is my home, and for those who have yet to visit – you are in for an experience of a lifetime!
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WHAT IS IN MY CAMERA BAG
- Olympus OM-1 Mirrorless Camera
- 150-400mm F4.5 Lens
- 7-14mm F2.8 Lens
- 12-40mm F2.8 Lens
- 40-150mm F2.8 Lens
- 300mm F4 Lens
- 1.4X Converter
- 2.0X Converter