Please have a look at my website for much more images - http://www.hougaardmalan.com

I am inspired by moments when the elements of nature combine as if painted by a god, to create scenes so beautiful that one has to take the time to stand back in awe and marvel at the beauty of the world we live in. I want my photos to remove the viewer from their present location and transport them to the scene so they can feel the wind and see the golden light of the setting sun on their skin. That is the purpose of a landscape photo, to experience the beauty of a place without being there.

I think people often try to over-interpret photographs and they miss the bigger picture. I'm a realist and through strong composition and complementary lighting I try to distill the essence of a location. I don't pursue awards or recognition. It took me a while to realise that prizes don?t mean much in a subjective industry dictated more by hobbyists than professionals. The pursuit of such merits makes you forget your purpose. I love what I do and I'm thankful for the opportunity to earn a living from it.