Philadelphia, Cape Town Photography

Vernon Chalmers, Tourist Photography Philadelphia, Cape Town

Canon EOS 6D Mark II and Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM Lens

Philadelphia, Cape Town, Philadelphia Town Entrance

An impromptu drive on a crisp December Monday morning took us to the small, rustic and tourist-friendly town of Philadelphia, (approximately 37 km's via the N7 towards Malmesbury), from Cape Town, for some tourist / street photography.

The Philadelphia village was established in 1836 from a parish of the Dutch Reformed Church. Various signages on notice boards and old buildings are daily reminders of the proud heritage of this quaint original settlement. Today the town is still relatively small with impeccably tidiness across the residential and trading areas.  

Philadelphia provided us with another opportunity to use the nimble Canon EOS 6D Mark II paired with the Canon EF 24-70mm f/4 IS USM lens and the ever-green Canon EOS 6D paired with the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM lens. Both bodies / lens pairings performed exceptionally well, So much optical creativity and Canon technology embedded inside... 

The majority of shops in Philadelphia are closed on a Monday and the town was therefore mostly deserted of locals and / or tourists. Only a few shops here and there were open for browsing. The Pepper Tree Art Stable and Coffee shop served us fresh roasted coffee and a few slices of a decadent lemon meringue pie. Compliments to the baker...!

Philadelphia is definitely worth another visit. It is also possible from here, through the countryside to drive to Wellington, Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. (see Philadelphia Map below) 

All Images Copyright Vernon Chalmers Photography : Vernon Chalmers Copyright Policy

'Tour our Town' Philadelphia, Cape Town : Town Map

NG Kerk / Dutch Reformed Church Philadelphia, Cape Town

NG Kerk / Dutch Reformed Church Philadelphia, Cape Town

Philadelphia, Cape Town NG Kerk / Dutch Reformed Church Signage (Since 1863)

Philadelphia, Cape Town Vintage Farmer Tractor

Philadelphia, Cape Town Garden Goblins 

Philadelphia, Cape Town Magic Minerals Shop Signage

Inside Magic Minerals Shop, Philadelphia, Cape Town

Magic Minerals Dragon Head, Philadelphia, Cape Town

Pink Daisy Flowers, Philadelphia, Cape Town (Auto-ISO 5000)

Pepper Tree Art Stable and Coffee Shop, Philadelphia, Cape Town

Photo of Painting Philadelphia Cape Town, Pepper Tree Art Stable and Coffee Shop

Pepper Tree Art Stable and Coffee Shop Books, Philadelphia, Cape Town

More About Philadelphia, Cape Town

"Philadelphia is a charming rural village located about 38 km north of Cape Town in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It's known for its historic buildings, scenic countryside, and friendly community.

It's wonderful how such a quaint village can offer so many activities and attractions. From savouring delicious home-cooked meals at Peppertree Art Stable & Coffee Shop to experiencing the thrill of microlight flights, there's something for everyone.

Here are some highlights of what you can do and see in Philadelphia:

• Peppertree Art Stable & Coffee Shop: Enjoy fine home-cooked cuisine under a large pepper tree in a country-style setting.
• Capaia Wines: Visit for wine tasting and enjoy the scenic vineyards.
• Mountain View Horse Trails: Go on horseback rides through the Cape Town farmlands.
• De Malle Meul: A great spot for Sunday lunch with a large buffet spread.
• Self-Drive Cape Town to Wellington: Take a scenic drive through beautiful countryside.
• Microlight Introduction Flights: Experience the thrill of soaring over land and sea in a microlight. 

Philadelphia is a perfect destination for those looking to experience the tranquility of rural life while still being close to the amenities of Cape Town." (Source: Microsoft Copilot)

Philadelphia, Cape Town, Google Map / Directions

N7 Towards Malmesbury From Cape Town (+- 38 Km's from Cape Town)

 Camera / Lens for Philadelphia, Cape Town Photography (Vernon Chalmers Images)

• Canon EOS 6D Mark II (Full-Frame)
• Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens
• Lexar Professional 64GB UHS-I 160MB/S /1066x Speed

Exposure / Focus Settings for Philadelphia, Cape Town Photography

• Autofocus On
• Aperture Priority (Av) Mode
• Apertures (f/4 - f/11) 
• Auto ISO (100 - 5000)
• Shutter Speeds (Various)
• Image Stabilisation On
• Handheld

Philadelphia, Cape Town Photography, Image Post-Processing

Lightroom Classic (Ver 13.5) - Minor Adjustments /  RAW to JPEG Conversion

African Art & Craft Market - Boulders Beach, Simon's Town

Bird Photography with Canon EOS 6D Mark II Woodbridge Island, Cape Town

Canon Photography Quick Walkabout Hout Bay Harbour, Cape Town

Kirstenbosch Garden Sculpture Photography Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Landscape Photography Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch, Cape Town

Canon EOS 6D Mark II and Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM Lens : Canon USA

Canon Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch

Bird Photography with Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Canon EOS 6D Mark II and Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens

Vernon Chalmers, Birds (in Flight) Photography with Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Little Egret in Flight : Canon EOS 6D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens

Canon EOS 6D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens for Bird Photography

"Vernon Chalmers is a professional photographer based in Cape Town, South Africa, who specializes in various genres of photography, including bird and wildlife photography. He often pairs the Canon EOS 6D Mark II with lenses like the Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM for bird photography. He uses this combination to capture stunning images of birds in flight and other wildlife." (Source: Microsoft Copilot)

During the the past 15 years I developed a strong affinity with my professional and enthusiast Canon EOS bodies and EF lenses.

I recently acquired an absolute pristine Canon EOS 6D Mark II from a very special client and dear friend for upgrading my Canon EOS 6D body. This body will mainly be used for landscape / street photography and most of my Kirstenbosch Garden photography paired with my EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM lens.

The majority of the Canon photography training sessions I facilitate are currently with the latest Canon EOS R bodies and RF lenses. Canon made significant strides from the original Canon EOS R to the latest Canon EOS R5 Mark II and R1 bodies and there’s some phenomenal upgrades in each body (especially the latest autofocus systems). I have written quite a number of articles and researched the evolution of the Canon R System.

I am often asked why I don’t own any Canon R / RF products. The answer is relatively simple. For my main genre, which is Birds in Flight photography, I use the nimble Canon EOS 7D Mark II and EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens. For my Woodbridge Island morning photography and Intaka Island late afternoon photography this body / lens combination is an absolute pleasure to work with.

However, I’m waiting for Canon to release the Canon R7 Mark II (or equivalent) as an APS-C body (as like-for-like replacement) of the Canon EOS 7D Mark II before any investment in the R System.

For landscape / street / general photography the 26 MP Full-Frame Canon EOS 6D Mark II is my current Canon body of choice – paired with any of my EF lenses. I have all the confidence in the world that any combination of my current EOS cameras and lenses should meet most of my personal requirements.

Up to date I have trained on about every Canon EOS R body on the market and I personally believe Canon is moving into the correct futuristic direction with the EOS R System.

Perhaps I’m just too nostalgic to part with my own EOS system, then again, not one of my bodies or lens combinations have disappointed me over the years.

Birds Photographed with Canon EOS 6D Mark II

• Little egret in flight
• Double-breasted cormorant in flight
• Yellow-billed duck in flight
• Grey heron in the river
• King gull perched
• Egyptian goose in flight
• Blacksmith lapwing in flight
• Egyptian goose next to the river 
• Cape canary

Canon 6D Mark  Camera / Lens for Bird and Other Images

• Canon EOS 6D Mark II (Full-Frame)
• Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens
• Canon EF 24-70mm F/4 IS USM lens

Canon 6D Mark II Exposure / Autofocus Settings for Bird Images

• Manual Mode / Aperture Priority (Av) Mode
• Aperture: f/5.6 / f/8 / f//11 (Table Mountain Image) 
• Auto-ISO: 320 - 1000
• Focal Length: 400mm (45mm Table Mountain Image)
• Focal Length: 560mm (Images with Canon Extender 1.4x MIII)
• Zone Autofocus (All AF Points Table Mountain Image)
• Canon Extender 1.4x MK III (Three Images) 
• Handheld

Lightroom Image Post-Processing

• Lightroom Classic (Ver 13.5) - minor adjustments /  RAW to JPEG conversion
  
  

White-Breasted Cormorant in Flight, Woodbridge Island : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Yellow-Billed Duck, Woodbridge Island : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Grey Heron, Diep River : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

- With Canon Extender 1.4x MK III at f/8  / Single Point AF Only - 

King Gull, Woodbridge Island : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

- With Canon Extender 1.4x MK III at f/8  / Single Point AF Only - 

Egyptian Goose in Flight, Woodbridge Island : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

- With Canon Extender 1.4x MK III at f/8  / Single Point AF Only -  

Blacksmith Lapwing in Flight, Diep River :  Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Egyptian Goose, Woodbridge Island : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Cape Canary, Arnhem Milnerton : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Table Mountain from my 2nd office Woodbridge Island : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Vernon Chalmers Photography Copyright | Intellectual Property Policy

Kirstenbosch Garden Sculpture Photography Canon EOS 6D Mark II

More About Vernon Chalmers Photography Genres Cape Town

"Vernon Chalmers is a professional photographer and educator based in Cape Town, South Africa 1. He specializes in various genres of photography, including bird and wildlife photography, landscapes, close-ups, and macro photography 1. Vernon offers tailored Canon photography training sessions for both Canon EOS DSLR and EOS R mirrorless cameras 2.

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Sessions:

• Introduction to Photography
• Bird and Flower Photography
• Macro and Close-Up Photography
• Landscape and Long Exposure Photography
• Canon Speedlite Flash Photography 2

Vernon conducts these training sessions at various locations, including Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Woodbridge Island, and even in the comfort of your own home or garden 2. He also provides one-on-one training tailored to individual needs and gear analysis 2." (Source: Microsoft)

More About Canon EOS 6D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens for Bird Photography

"The Canon EOS 6D Mark II paired with the Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens is a great combination for bird photography 1. Here are some tips to help you get the best results:

Camera Settings

• Autofocus Mode: Use AI Servo mode for continuous autofocus, which is ideal for tracking moving subjects like birds 2.
• AF Points: Select the center AF point or use the 45-point all cross-type AF system for precise focusing 2.
• Shutter Speed: Use a fast shutter speed (e.g., 1/1000s or faster) to freeze the motion of birds in flight 2.
• Aperture: Choose a wide aperture (e.g., f/5.6) to create a shallow depth of field and isolate your subject from the background 1.
• ISO: Set your camera to Auto ISO and set a maximum ISO limit to avoid excessive noise 2.

Shooting Techniques

• Positioning: Position yourself at the bird's eye level for a more engaging and natural perspective 2.
• Panning: Practice panning with your camera to follow the bird's movement smoothly 2.
• Pre-focus: Pre-focus on a spot where you expect the bird to fly and wait for it to enter the frame 2.
• Continuous Shooting: Use continuous shooting mode to capture multiple frames per second, increasing your chances of getting a sharp image 2.

Lens Features

• Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM: This lens is lightweight and offers excellent image quality 3. It includes one Super UD (Ultra-low Dispersion) element and one UD element, which help to reduce chromatic aberrations and produce sharp, high-contrast images 3.
• Autofocus: Equipped with a Ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM), it offers fast and quiet autofocus 3.
• Build Quality: The lens is part of Canon’s L-series, known for its robust build quality 3.

Canon EOS 6D Mark II - DIGIC 7 Image Processor

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II, released in 2017, features the DIGIC 7 image processor. This processor brought significant improvements to image quality, performance, and features compared to the older DIGIC 5+ processor in the original Canon EOS 6D." (Source Microsoft Copilot)

Key Features: Canon EOS 6D Mark II with DIGIC 7 Image Processor:

1. Image Quality:

• 26.2 MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor: Paired with the DIGIC 7 processor, it delivers excellent image quality with enhanced detail and dynamic range.
• Improved ISO Performance: Native ISO range of 100 - 40,000 (expandable to 50–102,400) with reduced noise, especially in low-light conditions.
  
  

2. Autofocus System:

• 45-Point All Cross-Type AF System: Significant upgrade over the 11-point AF in the original 6D, offering better subject tracking and accuracy.
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF: Provides smooth and reliable autofocus in Live View and during video recording.
  
  

3. Continuous Shooting:

• Up to 6.5 frames per second (fps), suitable for action and sports photography.
  
  

4. Video Features:

• Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 60 fps.
• Time-lapse movie mode with 4K output, a handy feature for creative videographers.
  
  

5. Connectivity:

• Built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth for easy file sharing and remote control.
• Built-in GPS for geotagging photos.
  
  

6. Other Features:

• Vari-Angle LCD Touchscreen: A 3.0-inch fully articulating display for creative compositions and easy navigation.
• Weather-Sealed Body: Offers durability and resistance to dust and moisture.
  
  

How the Canon EOS 6D Mark II DIGIC 7 Enhances Performance:

• Improved Noise Reduction: Allows for cleaner images at high ISOs.
• Faster Image Processing: Enables quicker write times, allowing for better burst shooting and shorter buffer clearing.
• Advanced Autofocus Algorithms: Enhances subject tracking and precision in various lighting conditions.

Canon EOS 6D Mark II Genre Applications:

The 6D Mark II is an excellent choice for enthusiasts or professionals seeking an affordable full-frame DSLR for:

• Portraits
• Landscape photography
• Event shooting
• Travel photography (thanks to GPS and compact size for a full-frame DSLR)"

(Source: ChatGPT 2024)

Canon EF 400mm f/4/5L USM Lens Applications

The Canon EF 400mm f/4.5L USM lens is a professional-grade telephoto lens designed for various applications where long focal lengths and high-quality optics are required. Its performance and features make it suitable for the following applications:

1. Wildlife Photography

• Capturing distant animals in their natural habitats.
• Ideal for safaris, birdwatching, or photographing elusive creatures without disturbing them.
• The 400mm focal length provides enough reach to frame subjects far away.

2. Sports Photography

• Used for shooting action-packed events like football, soccer, or track and field.
• The telephoto range allows photographers to capture athletes from the sidelines or stands with sharp detail.

3. Astrophotography

• Its long focal length makes it suitable for capturing celestial bodies such as the moon or planets.
• Combined with a stable tripod and tracking mount, it can produce stunning astrophotography results.

4. Landscape Photography

• While unconventional for landscapes, it can isolate specific features within a scene, like mountain peaks or distant subjects.
• Compresses perspective, creating unique compositions.

5. Portraits in Nature

• Produces a flattering compression effect for outdoor portraits, particularly when isolating the subject against blurred backgrounds.

6. Event and Concert Photography

• Perfect for capturing performers on stage from a distance while maintaining image quality.
• Helps in situations where proximity to the subject is limited.

7. Surveillance and Documentary Work

• Useful for documenting subjects discreetly from a safe distance.
• Offers professional results for investigative or documentary projects.

Key Features Supporting Applications:

• Fast Autofocus: The USM (Ultrasonic Motor) ensures quick and silent autofocus, critical for wildlife and sports.
• L-Series Quality: Known for exceptional optical performance, weather sealing, and durability.
• Relatively Lightweight: Compared to larger aperture telephoto lenses, the f/4.5 aperture keeps the lens more portable. " (Source: ChatGPT 2024)
  
  

Canon EOS 6D Mark II Overview >>

Canon Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch Cape Town | Intaka Island

Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Photography, Cape Town 

Canon EOS 6D for Action Photography

Canon EOS 6D / EF 70-300mm f4-5.6L IS USM lens

Canon EOS 6D for Action Photography

The humble Canon EOS 6D (Full Frame) for motorcycle panning at Killarney, Cape Town and Birds in Flight, Woodbridge Island.

The Canon EOS 6D body is not really renown for its Autofocus System capabilities when compared to i.e. the Canon EOS 5D Mark III (Full Frame) / Canon EOS 7D Mark II (APS-C) - and globally Canon photographers are not too keen for its 4.5 fps continuous rate compared to 6 - 14 fps in most sport-orientated bodies.

I took the Canon EOS 6D on various tests (deliberately) paired with the Canon EF 70-300mm f4-5.6L IS USM lens for demonstrating the camera's 11-Point AF system capabilities at 4.5 frames per second.

If this was my only Canon EOS body, I would have no concern shooting motor sport and / or Birds in Flight - only change I would make is to replace the 70-300mm lens with my 400mm prime lens for Birds in Flight (for faster AF and the 100mm additional reach).

Two images with Canon EOS 6D at Center-Point AF (AI Servo Mode):

1st Image: Motorcycle Panning at Killarney Cape Town

2nd Image: Birds in Flight Photography - Woodbridge Island, Cape Town

Image 1: Canon EOS 6D - Motorcycle Racing Killarney

Image 2: Canon EOS 6D - Birds in Flight Photography Cape Town

Bird Photography with Canon EOS 6D Mark II
Bird Photography with Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Canon EOS 7D Mark II Resources / Birds in Flight Photography Gallery
Canon EOS 7D Mark II Resources / Birds in Flight Photography Gallery

Two Cost-Effective Canon Lenses for Birds in Flight Photography
Two Cost-Effective Canon Lenses for Birds in Flight Photography

Kirstenbosch Garden Sculpture Photography

Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden Sculpture Photography, Cape Town

With Canon EOS 6D Mark II / Canon EF Lenses

Sculpture Photography : Anton Smit Sculptures Kirstenbosch Garden

Earlier today I facilitated an extensive one-on-one photography training session at Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden.

We were greeted early-morning with slight rainy conditions during the undercover exposure theory session. The morning light improved as we ventured outside into the the garden under slight diffused light, but perfectly dry conditions for the practical application session.

During the practical session I only managed to capture a few images as my attention was firmly on the new photographer's application of exposure in different modes, exposure settings and focal lengths while capturing small flowers and quite a few Anton Smit sculptures (of various shapes and sizes).

I managed to 'click and go' these very bold and impressive sculptures. Ultimately compromised by the availability of time for more effective background angles I decided to adjust both image backgrounds for eliminating people, plants and other unwanted natural obstacles.

For projecting the prominence and quality of  the sculptures I digitally enhanced the backgrounds with 'superimposing' image backgrounds in applying Windows 11 Photo App functionality and some non-AI corrections in Adobe Lightroom. 

According to my own (Vernon Chalmers Photography) AI disclaimer I am aware that due to the applied background changes I am obliged to communicate these image property changes. 

My objective was to stay as authentic as possible in creating an average generative natural background colour scheme (in terms of a generative depth of field application - based on the original tones). All sculpture images are the natural exposure depiction as captured with my Canon EOS 6D Mark II.

Kirstenbosch Sculpture Photography with Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Anton Smit, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden Sculpture : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Anton Smit, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden Sculpture : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Anton Smit, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden Sculpture : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Anton Smit, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Vernon Chalmers Canon EOS 6D Mark II for Bird Photography

Vernon Chalmers Photography AI Disclaimer

Vernon Chalmers Photography Copyright | Intellectual Property Policy

Anton Smit South African Sculptor

Anton Smit is a renowned South African sculptor known for his powerful and evocative works. His sculptures often feature towering human figures, impressive heads, masks, and abstract pieces 1. He works with a variety of materials, including steel, metal, stones, and bronze, and is known for imbuing his sculptures with an illusion of movement.

Smit's art explores themes of suffering, reconciliation, glory, and sublimation1, and his works can be found in both public and private collections around the world. He has exhibited his sculptures in various locations, including the Pretoria Art Museum and the Century City Art Foundation 1. (Source: Microsoft Copilot)

Anton Smit South African Sculptor Kirstenbosch Garden

Anton Smit has recently collaborated with the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) to showcase his sculptures in several National Botanical Gardens. As of November 5, 2024, his artworks have been on display at the Pretoria National Botanical Garden. This partnership will extend to the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town, with installations planned for 2025.sanbi.org

Smit's sculptures are known for their expressive themes, often delving into human emotion and spirituality. His works have been exhibited both nationally and internationally, gracing public spaces and private collections. en.wikipedia.org

For those interested in viewing his art in Cape Town, current exhibitions include displays at the Century City Arts Trail and the Delaire Graff Estate in Stellenbosch. antonsmit.co.za

To stay updated on the latest installations and exhibitions, it's advisable to check the official websites of SANBI and Anton Smit. (Source: ChatGPT 2025)

More about Vernon Chalmers Photography at Kirstenbosch Garden

“Vernon Chalmers has a strong connection with Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden 1. He frequently conducts photography training sessions there, focusing on various aspects such as bird and flower photography, macro and close-up photography, and landscape and long exposure photography 2.

Recently, on December 11, 2024, Vernon facilitated an extensive one-on-one training session at Kirstenbosch 1. Despite slight rainy conditions in the morning, the session continued with practical applications in the garden under diffused but dry conditions 1. Vernon used a Canon EOS 6D Mark II to capture images of sculptures and small flowers, providing hands-on guidance to new photographers 1.” (Source: Microsoft)

Camera / Lens for Sculpture Images

• Canon EOS 6D Mark II (Full-Frame)
• Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM lens
• Canon EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM lens 

Exposure / Focus / Focal Length Settings

• Autofocus On
• Aperture Priority (Av) Mode
• Aperture: f/4
• Auto-ISO: 100
• Focal Length: 105mm / 400nn 
• Zone Autofocus
• Handheld

Lightroom Image Post-Processing

• Lightroom Classic (Ver 13.5) - minor adjustments /  RAW to JPEG conversion
• Windows 11 Photo App 

Philadelphia, Cape Town Photography

Canon Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch Cape Town | Intaka Island

Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Photograph, Cape Town