Introducing #MancrushMonday : Roelof Louw aka Dolfieman
#MancrushMonday is a FABULOUS new series dedicated to showcasing some seriously inspiring men that have crossed my path. Previously on my #jaxpirational series I gave the ladies some props, it’s time the men got a shout out!
I have stalked Roelof’s spectacular Instagram feed for the longest time and I so appreciate him taking time out of his busy schedule to chat with me. So without further adieu let me introduce:
Tell us a bit about yourself
I’m a 35-year-old IT Engineer working my craft in the Mother City. When possible and the conditions are ripe, I go out and do what I’m most passionate about – Landscape photography
When and where were you born?
8 August in Cape Town, South Africa
Where are you living now?
Cape Town
What kind of creative are you?
Landscape photography
Name of your brand?
No blog, I only post on IG/FB – @dolfieman
How did you discover your calling?
For a long time I wish I had the God-given talent to portray on paper what I’m able to conjure up in my mind. I took some art classes but couldn’t quite find anything stimulating enough to really delve into and develop. It wan only until early 2016 when a mate of mine allowed me to play with his camera. The rest is, well, history.
What do you love most about what you do?
The development of appreciation for the small things. Getting up whilst the rest of the world sleeps, to chase that sunrise. Shooting in early morning hours, in the coldest of conditions just to capture the brilliance that is our galaxy, the Milky Way. Climbing a mountain as fast as you possibly can to get to vista you have in mind. The overwhelming feeling of satisfaction when you get that shot that you’ve been chasing for years!
What do you like the least about what you do?
The fact that 9 out of 10 times, conditions, albeit predicted, do not quite pan out. In conjunction with this, you do get those souls who put in fake skies/moons/what-have-you to “spice up” the scene, more so to wow the general public who mostly, do not know of any better… It’s probably my least favourite aspect of this industry.
Who or what has been your biggest motivators ?
Nailing that shot that you’ve been chasing for a long time! Another big and probably underrated motivator it the level of fitness attained when hiking a lot, all whilst indulging in the raw beauty of nature. In terms of who, I would have to say one of my dear friends, and photographer, Alex De Kock. It helps having good, honest friends in this line of photography – not only to learn from, but also to shoot alongside with. Thanks to this passion I’ve met amazing folks along the way – that comradery in itself is a massive motivator.
Have you experienced fear along the way & how did you overcome it?
I have. Believe it or not, I had to overcome my fear of heights – something that is weird to admit as an avid mountain climber, but also something I’m proud of. This was a two-step process – the first of which was jumping off a 6 meter cliff, the other going up Kloof Corner Ridge and conquering the chains I have previously failed to climb.
What are your greatest achievement/s?
This to me is personal and trumps being published or featured by anyone – capturing lighting over Table Mountain reflected in the Blouberg Rock pools. A rare occurrence and a bit of a “holy grail” shot for me
Who do you thank for your success?
Good friends and family, and an incredible wife!
What upcoming projects do you have?
In light of the whole COVID debacle everything is on hold. I’m waiting on confirmation from Fujifilm on an upcoming astro photography project. I wish I could elaborate more but as stated – everything is in limbo.
How are you currently coping with the #Covid19 Crisis?
My main profession has not stopped – remote IT support and systems management keeps me very busy.
Any words of encouragement for other male creatives out there?
Always follow your heart and not so much your mind. Success is…
Where can we stalk you on social media?
Instagram : Dolfieman
Facebook: Dolfieman
Special Thanks to Roelof for his time and sharing a bit more about himself. Stay tuned for another #MancrushMonday next week!
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