VUT Photography Department hosts inspiring Lens Master Challenge and Awards Ceremony

On 18 November, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Photography Department hosted its inaugural Lens Master Challenge and Awards Ceremony to celebrate the unique creativity of its students. The event recognised the top student photographers from first to fourth year, acknowledging their excellence across several categories while fostering a culture of motivation and encouragement for the next generation of photographers.

The objective of this competition was to unite students and provide them with opportunities for healthy competition. This collaborative platform fostered a strong work ethic, inspiring participants to push their boundaries and strive for excellence. Students gained valuable insights into the complete process of selecting, printing, and exhibiting their photographs, boosting their confidence and motivating one another. Seeing their work displayed in a professional setting not only elevated their morale but also instilled a sense of pride and deeper appreciation for their art.

The Photography Department staff, particularly the lecturers, worked closely to identify categories that would accommodate the diverse work of their students while honouring the variety within the medium. These categories were carefully designed to encourage participation, ensuring no student felt excluded. This inclusive yet specific approach allowed every student to showcase their unique vision and creativity.

Two external judges, renowned photographers based in Gauteng, graciously volunteered their time to select the winners in each category. The department had the privilege of welcoming Mr Olebile Mocoancoeng and Mr Tatenda Chidori as judges. Their participation was not only an honour for the department but also served as an inspiration for aspiring photographers.

The ceremony showcased an impressive array of creativity, with student photographs judged across six categories: Portraits, Serialization, Worldwide View, Fine Art, Spaces, and Things. Certificates were awarded to the top four students from each year group for the best image, recognising their talent and creativity. In addition, the department selected the overall best image from all submissions, highlighting the exceptional talent within the faculty. Prestigious awards were presented along with prizes, adding excitement and celebration to the occasion.

The winners of each category were as follows:

Portraiture:
1st – Lwakhe Khwanya
2nd – Kutlwano Ramakoplwa
3rd – Xabiso Qegwana
Honourable Mention – Xabiso Qegwana

Spaces:
1st – Rosemary Tlokotsi
2nd – Lesiba Moseboa
3rd – Hopewell Milazi
Honourable Mention – Kutlwano Ramakoplwa

Things:
1st – Jabulane Mukhwane
2nd – Kutlwano Ramakoplwa
3rd – Siyabonga Gumbi
Honourable Mention – Lesiba Moseboa

Serialization:
1st – Mandla Ndlebe
2nd – Wisdom Mabaso
3rd – Xabiso Qegwana

Worldwide View:
1st – Matlhodi Tloubatla
2nd – Xabiso Qegwana
3rd – Livhuwani Motsharine
Honourable Mention – Koketso Ramagaga

Fine Art:
1st – Xabiso Qegwana
2nd – Kutlwano Ramakoplwa
3rd – Dineo Ntshihlele
Honourable Mention – Nkhensani Simango

The event aimed not only to celebrate the winners but also to inspire all students, including those who did not receive awards. The prizes were intended to motivate students to continue refining their craft, participate in future masterclasses, and strive for excellence in their photographic journeys.

The highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by Mr Olebile Mocoancoeng, an award-winning photographer from the Vaal. His powerful speech set the tone for the ceremony, urging third- and fourth-year students to begin seriously considering their future careers in photography. Mocoancoeng emphasized the importance of dreaming big and setting clear goals to succeed in the competitive world of photography.

“Even as you’re shooting now, you’re not just taking pictures; you’re building a brand. You can create galleries, sell your work, and make a living from your passion. Remember, it has to be profitable at the end,” Mocoancoeng encouraged the students.

We wish all the students the very best in their future endeavours!