Hello! I’m Elaine Vermaak, founder and owner of Elaine Otto Photography. I’m a proud wife and dog mom, living in beautiful Durbanville. While home is where the heart is, I love travelling for shoots, whether it’s to clients’ homes or picturesque locations in Stellenbosch, Overberg, and the West Coast.

My journey into photography began in 2010, following a photography course that ignited a deep passion within me. Capturing the essence of children, families, and animals is a true privilege and brings me immense joy. Every day, I feel blessed to do what I love, finding happiness in each photo I take.

As a natural light photographer, I love using natural lighting to create images that are elegant and soft, yet vibrant with colour. My spontaneous and loving nature shines through in my work, reflecting the beauty and authenticity of each moment.

I believe in living life to the fullest, embracing new experiences, and savouring each season of life. Whether it’s enjoying a late-afternoon sun, a glass of red wine, or a picnic with my husband and dog, I cherish these simple pleasures. My love for the sea, protea flowers, and animals inspires my creativity and my photography journey.

Photography is not just my profession; it’s my way of preserving the precious memories that mean so much to people. Each photo tells a story, capturing moments that can be treasured forever. One day, I hope to explore other artistic avenues like painting or interior design, but for now, my heart belongs to photography.

Why do I do what I do? Because I believe in the power of a captured moment. The joy, the love, the connection – these are the things that make life beautiful, and I am honoured to preserve them through my lens.