The False Bay Echo is pleased to introduce a new monthly column, Community Chronicles, which will spotlight everyday members of the community who make a positive impact in their own unique way.
These are the people who quietly contribute to the fabric of our community, often through social media or simple acts of kindness, helping to create a supportive environment and build community cohesion.
For our first feature, we introduce Welcome Glen resident Nigel Riley, a familiar name to many of our readers. Nigel is a regular contributor to the Echo, capturing the beauty and character of False Bay through his photography.
Q: How did you get into photography?
A: After I retired in 2016 from the South African Navy, I needed to find a new purpose to get up every morning. Photography had always been a passion of mine, going back to when I was just a “pikkie” playing with my grandfather’s box camera.
Q: What inspires you?
A: Life itself inspires me. I always see the glass as half full, no matter what. I live each day to the fullest because tomorrow is never promised. Every morning, I thank my God for giving me the health to get up and spread a little bit of love to the folks out there through the eyes of my lens, and I do the same when I close my eyes at night.
Q: What are your preferred areas to photograph?
A: There are so many beautiful places right on our doorstep, from Muizenberg all the way around to Hout Bay. However, Kalk Bay holds a special place in my heart. I attended St James Catholic School there back in the 60s, and the fishermen of Kalk Bay are very dear to me.
Q: Share a fun fact about yourself
A: I am one year older than my wife, Patricia. Her birthday is on February 16 and mine is on February 17. I always remind her that for 24 hours we are the same age.
Q: What was the most spectacular thing you’ve photographed, and have you ever discovered some hidden gems off the beaten track while out photographing?
A: Over the years, I have captured some amazing pictures such as the waves pummelling the Kalk Bay wall during the Black South Easter, the heroes of the firemen and chopper pilots fighting the fires in the deep south or just being at the right place and time to photograph the whales or dolphins frolicking in the bay. But the two pictures I will always treasure are capturing the treknet fisherman.
It’s the black and white picture and the other one is finally capturing the full moon rising behind Roman Rock Lighthouse. There are many little hidden gems, especially in Simon’s Town, but the one place that so many people miss out on is the Heritage Museum in Simon’s Town.
