By Relebohile Mohapi
Early in the morning in Makhanda, birds chirping break the morning silence. Light footsteps tread on the wet ground. Tailing Harold Gess is not easy. I try my best to keep my feet soundless so as not to scare the birds away. But it turns out to be a slow morning for photographers – not too many birds about in this secluded part of town. “At this time of the year, some birds have migrated to warmer parts,” he explains. However, that does not stop him from seeking bird sightings.
Harold Gess teaches photography in the School of Journalism and Media Studies at Rhodes University and is an avid photographer. His favourite muses are often birds, but he photographs everything. “I like anything that takes a lot of effort,” he says. Lighthouses, landscapes, stage performances, and insects all absorb his eye. But even a quick glance at Gess’s Facebook page shows his passion for bird photography.
Birds have a special place in his heart. “Birds are also an excuse for spending time in nature, where it’s nice and quiet. I have time to think about things.” Being in a quiet area surrounded by chirping and singing is a daily activity to ensure a good start to his day.
Gess has been interested in both birds and photography since his early teenage years, but the two only came together much later. Refusing to pick out a favourite bird, he says, “They are all interesting and different. I like them all.” In the past few years, he has photographed almost 100 bird species on the Rhodes campus alone – close to 12% of all bird species in South Africa.
He has photographed the same species multiple times, but does not tire of doing so. One photo will not be like another. Like humans, birds move, change positions, and sometimes pose. Birds have personality, it turns out. “Some birds like to hide, others are like security guards, warning others of your presence,” he explains. He believes that birds are multifaceted creatures to which many people pay no mind.
As an ‘everything photographer’, Harold captures everything which catches his eye. He also enjoys shooting on-stage performances live, especially at the National Arts Festival. “Getting pictures right on stage is a bit of a challenge, but challenges are always welcome.”
Gess advises upcoming photographers learning their craft, “Look at good photography and develop your eye. Take photographs every day. Pick a niche and work on it every day.” It’s a cliché, but it’s right: practice makes perfect.
