Vernon Chalmers Photography Approach

Vernon Chalmers’s Photography Approach: Crafting Meaning Through Nature, Philosophy and Teaching

Birds in Flight Photography : Woodbridge Island, Cape Town

Introduction

In the landscapes, skies, and wetlands of Cape Town, Vernon Chalmers has forged a photographic practice deeply rooted in place, presence, and existential inquiry. His work - spanning birds in flight, serene landscapes, and close-up flora and fauna - reflects a seamless integration of technical mastery, philosophical depth, therapeutic purpose, environmental engagement, and pedagogical innovation. Over thousands of words, this essay unfolds the unique dimensions of Chalmers’s approach, presented as one coherent narrative that illustrates how a photographer’s gaze can become an invitation to dwell in wonder, responsibility, and meaning.

The Environmental and Place-Based Foundation

Cape Town is not merely a location for Chalmers; it is both muse and mentor. Situated within the Cape Floristic Region - a UNESCO World Heritage site - this terrain offers exceptional biodiversity, wetlands, and bird habitats (Chalmers, 2025a). Chalmers repeatedly photographs at spots such as Woodbridge Island, Milnerton Lagoon, Intaka Island, and the Table Bay Nature Reserve (Chalmers, 2025a), developing a sustained relationship with these places. His repeated visits allow him to document seasonal changes, bird behaviors, and ecological rhythms, turning familiarity into aesthetic and ethical awareness (Chalmers, 2025a).

This place-based practice reflects the principle that immersion in a familiar natural environment fosters psychological restoration and a deep sense of belonging (Kaplan & Kaplan, 1989; Basso, 1996). Indeed, Chalmers’s work both documents and preserves Cape Town’s natural heritage and invites viewers into an ethic of care (Chalmers, 2025a). The city is also his classroom, as he brings students to these sites, allowing the environment itself to shape learning through sensory-rich, experiential pedagogy (Chalmers, 2025a).

Technical Mastery: Precision, Tools, and Discipline

Chalmers’s expertise with Canon EOS and EOS R systems underpins the aesthetic and philosophical dimensions of his imagery (Chalmers, 2025b). His “Birds in Flight” workshops - conducted at locations like Woodbridge Island and Intaka Island - focus on essential technical skills: exposure settings, fast shutter speeds, autofocus systems, lens choice, depth of field, and tracking (Chalmers, 2025b; Chalmers, 2023). These are complemented by post-processing clinics in Lightroom, making his approach both holistic and grounded (Chalmers, 2025b; Chalmers, 2023).

Importantly, Chalmers emphasizes that the camera is not a mechanical instrument alone, but a vessel for perception - “you don’t make a photograph just with a camera… you bring to the act of photography all the pictures you have seen, the books you have read…” (Chalmers, 2025c). He encourages photographers to “trust your intuition” and to “forget about that ‘perfect shot’,” favoring an “ideal exposure” and mindful immersion in the moment (Chalmers, 2025c). This encouragement bridges the technical and existential, reminding learners that creativity lives in presence and feeling, as much as in gear and data.

Landscape / Seascape Long Exposure Photography : Milnerton Beach

Existential Philosophy in Visual Practice

Chalmers’s photography transcends mere documentation, inviting existential reflection. In his essay "A Visual Interpretation of Existential Photography" (2025e), he describes his imagery as not empty, but silent - spaces for contemplation and existential dialogue. These images carry unanswered questions and embrace absurdity, echoing Camus’s notion that meaning arises through our confrontation with a meaningless world (Camus, 1991). They pose, “Who are you? Why are you here?” - without offering tidy answers (Chalmers, 2025e).

His work embodies solitude not as loneliness but as a deep existential attunement to being-in-the-world (Heidegger, 1962). His quiet coastal scenes and intimate nature frames suggest attunement and impermanence - each image captures fleeting light, movement, and mood (Chalmers, 2025f). The recurring motif of the bird in flight embodies freedom and human longing - always elusive, always passing - thus mirroring Sartre’s idea that meaning must be created rather than discovered (Sartre, 2007; Chalmers, 2025f).

Further, Chalmers rejects objectification in his imagery. His photographs render subjects - whether bird, butterfly, or landscape - with dignity and interiority, aligning with Levinas’s ethical philosophy of seeing the Other responsibly (Levinas, 1998; Chalmers, 2025e). Each frame is thus an invitation to ethical witnessing, rather than visual exploitation.

Small Bird Photography : Kirstenbosch Garden, Cape Town

Healing and Mindfulness: Photography as Existential Therapy

Photography, for Chalmers, is both a craft and a sanctuary. He has spoken of photography’s pivotal role in healing after personal loss between 2020 and 2023, describing nature walks and image-making as meditative, emotionally restorative experiences (Chalmers, 2025g). He recognizes that the natural world - from dramatic wildlife to microflora - offers healing, if approached with awareness and openness (Chalmers, 2025g).

He further applies these therapeutic insights to teaching. By addressing emotional expectations - such as ideal exposures - Chalmers helps students cultivate creative confidence and empathy toward their own process (Chalmers, 2025g). His approach reflects adult-learning principles and compassionate education, in which learning technical skill is paired with emotional presence.

One can also detect the influence of Viktor Frankl’s logotherapy (Frankl, 1985) on Chalmers’s practice. He applies Frankl’s three paths of meaning - creative values, experiential values, and attitudinal values - through photography, workshops, and community engagement (Chalmers, 2025i). His teaching becomes a form of non-clinical existential therapy, encouraging self-transcendence through creative immersion (Chalmers, 2025i).

Aesthetic Minimalism and Emotional Truth

Chalmers’s visual aesthetic is marked by minimalism, light, and emotional resonance. Clean compositions, soft lighting, and ample negative space create contemplative frames that tap into Barthes’s concept of the “punctum”—the emotionally piercing element that touches viewers (Barthes, 1981; Chalmers, 2025f). These poetic images are less about spectacle and more about mood, attuned to quiet introspection.

Whether a solitary bird winging across a pastel sky, a reflection in still water, or a butterfly poised in a botanical garden, Chalmers’ images are invitations to slow down, to feel, and to acknowledge beauty’s impermanence.

Vernon Chalmers Education and Training : Milnerton Beach, Cape Town

Pedagogy, Community, and Place-Based Learning

Chalmers’s educational philosophy roots itself in place-based, experiential pedagogy. By conducting workshops in active natural settings—Milnerton Lagoon, Kirstenbosch, Woodbridge Island—he brings students into dynamic classrooms of light, birdsong, and environment (Chalmers, 2025a; 2025c). This aligns with theories of place-based learning, which enhance engagement and foster environmental empathy (Smith & Sobel, 2010).

His teaching is learner-centered, tailored to individuals’ cameras, styles, and pace, and extends beyond structured sessions to ongoing support via WhatsApp and email (Chalmers, 2025b; Chalmers, 2023). This mentoring model creates a supportive creative community in Cape Town, nurturing confidence, intuition, and environmental awareness.

Environmental Engagement and Digital Storytelling

Beyond aesthetics, Chalmers’s photography serves environmental awareness. His long-term documentation of birds and habitats functions as visual argument for conservation - not through overt activism but through dignified portrayal and emotional resonance (Chalmers, 2025a). Psychological research supports the notion that exposure to natural beauty increases pro-environmental behaviors (Clayton & Myers, 2015), suggesting that Chalmers’s work may foster ecological care in his audience.

Through his blog, social media, and galleries, he brings Cape Town’s delicate ecosystems to a global readership, shaping the city’s digital narrative as one of wild beauty and custodianship (Chalmers, 2025a). His ethics of seeing - respect, dignity, attunement - underscore this digital storytelling, offering an ecological narrative that is both placeless and place-rooted.

Swift Tern in Flight : Woodbridge Island, Cape Town

Synthesis: A Holistic Photographic Philosophy

The converging threads in Chalmers’s approach - technical skill, existential inquiry, healing, minimalism, pedagogy, and environmental consciousness—form a synergistic philosophy of photographic practice. He does not separate craft from meaning; each feed into and sustain the other.

This approach also resonates with broader academic traditions: existential psychotherapy (Yalom, 1980), logotherapy (Frankl, 1985), Heideggerian being-in-the-world (Heidegger, 1962), and ethical witnessing (Levinas, 1998). But Chalmers’s work remains rooted in tangible place and everyday practice - in the light on the lagoon, the flight of a kingfisher, the reflection in still water.

Conclusion: A Photographic Practice of Grounded Meaning

In the evolving intersection of urban life and ecological fragility, Vernon Chalmers stands out not just as a photographer or educator, but as a place-based philosopher. His frames are quiet pulses of existential awareness, his workshops containers for technical and emotional growth, and his imagery invitations to both dwell and act.

Ultimately, Chalmers teaches us that photography can be far more than an act of seeing - it can be an act of being. In each silent image, each teachable moment, each bird captured mid-flight, he bridges craft and consciousness, reminding us that meaning, presence, and beauty are processes rooted in place - and in how deeply, mindfully, we engage with it.

Architecture Night Photography : From Woodbridge Island, Cape Town

References

Basso, K. H. (1996). Wisdom sits in places: Landscape and language among the Western Apache. University of New Mexico Press.

Barthes, R. (1981). Camera Lucida: Reflections on photography. (R. Howard, Trans.). Hill and Wang.

Camus, A. (1991). The myth of Sisyphus (J. O’Brien, Trans.). Vintage.

Chalmers, V. (2025a, April 1). Vernon Chalmers Cape Town photography: A creative and environmental connection with the Cape Peninsula. Retrieved from vernonchalmers.photography (Vernon Chalmers Photography).

Chalmers, V. (2025b, March 1). Birds in flight photography training Cape Town. Retrieved from vernonchalmers.photography (Vernon Chalmers Photography).

Chalmers, V. (2023, March). Bird photography training Cape Town. Retrieved from vernonchalmers.photography (Vernon Chalmers Photography).

Chalmers, V. (2025c, April 1). About Vernon Chalmers Photography. Retrieved from vernonchalmers.photography (Vernon Chalmers Photography).

Chalmers, V. (2025e, July). A visual interpretation of existential photography. Retrieved from vernonchalmers.photography (Vernon Chalmers Photography).

Chalmers, V. (2025f, April). Vernon Chalmers existential photography. Retrieved from vernonchalmers.photography (Vernon Chalmers Photography).

Chalmers, V. (2025i, June 30). Vernon Chalmers applying Viktor Frankl's logotherapy: A photographic pursuit of existential meaning. Retrieved from vernonchalmers.photography. (Vernon Chalmers Photography)

Clayton, S. & Myers, G. (2015). Conservation psychology: Understanding and promoting human care for nature (2nd ed.). Wiley-Blackwell.

Frankl, V. E. (1985). Man’s search for meaning (Rev. ed.). Pocket Books.

Heidegger, M. (1962). Being and time (J. Macquarrie & E. Robinson, Trans.). Harper & Row.

Kaplan, R., & Kaplan, S. (1989). The experience of nature: A psychological perspective. Cambridge University Press.

Levinas, E. (1998). Otherwise than being or beyond essence (A. Lingis, Trans.). Duquesne University Press.

Sartre, J.-P. (2007). Existentialism and human emotions (B. Frechtman, Trans.). Citadel Press.

Smith, G. A., & Sobel, D. (2010). Place- and community-based education in schools. Routledge.

Yalom, I. D. (1980). Existential psychotherapy. Basic Books

Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Pollution Report March 2025

Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Pollution Status Report March 2025

Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Pollution Status Report 2025

Index:

1. Executive Summary
2. Introduction
3. Current Pollution Status in 2025
4. Sources and Causes of Pollution
5. Environmental and Community Impact
6. Ongoing Remediation Efforts and Infrastructure Upgrades
7. Public and Political Response
8. Conclusion and Outlook
9. Recommendations
10. Works cited / References
11. Report Compiler
12. Disclaimer

Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Pollution Report August 2025

1. Executive Summary:

"The water quality of Milnerton Lagoon and the surrounding Woodbridge Island area remains critically compromised in 2025. The primary driver of this persistent pollution is the ongoing challenge of managing sewage effluent, largely attributed to the operational limitations of the Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW) 1. Despite the City of Cape Town's undertaking of a substantial R5.2 billion upgrade to the Potsdam WWTW, with full completion anticipated by the end of 2027, interim improvements in treated effluent quality are expected around mid-2025 due to the fast-tracking of certain infrastructure components 1. Public concern remains high, fueled by persistent foul odours emanating from the lagoon and anxieties regarding associated health risks 1. Alarmingly, continued high levels of E. coli and Enterococci contamination within the lagoon and adjacent coastal areas pose a significant threat to both human and environmental health 1. The ecological integrity of this important estuarine system is under severe pressure, necessitating continued and intensified efforts to address the root causes of this pollution.

2. Introduction:

Milnerton Lagoon, an estuary formed by the Diep River, is a vital ecological feature within the City of Cape Town, situated near Woodbridge Island. This lagoon serves as a crucial nursery area for various fish species on the west coast, including the Cape stumpnose and white steenbras, highlighting its ecological significance 2. This report aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the pollution status of Milnerton Lagoon and Woodbridge Island as of 2025, drawing upon available research to outline the current situation, its underlying causes, the resulting environmental and community impacts, and ongoing remediation initiatives. The lagoon has faced persistent pollution challenges for an extended period, with the Western Cape environmental inspectorate issuing a directive to the City of Cape Town over four years prior to this report to address the issue 2. This protracted history underscores the complexity and intractability of the pollution problems affecting this area.

3. Current Pollution Status in 2025:

• 3.1. Persistent Sewage Contamination:

The primary characteristic of the pollution affecting Milnerton Lagoon in 2025 is the continuous presence of sewage contamination 1. Reports from early 2025 indicate ongoing issues with sewage treatment as the principal source of this contamination 1. Disturbingly, residents have reported and even documented instances of what appears to be raw, untreated sewage flowing directly into the lagoon 10. This suggests that despite efforts to manage wastewater, significant breaches in the system continue to occur, leading to the direct discharge of sewage into this sensitive aquatic environment.

• 3.2. High Levels of Bacterial Contamination:

A major consequence of the sewage pollution is the sustained presence of elevated levels of bacterial contamination. Concerns regarding E. coli and Enterococci contamination within the lagoon and the adjacent coastal areas persist throughout 2025 1. Water quality data from November 2024, which likely reflects the situation in early 2025, revealed alarmingly high E. coli counts downstream of the Potsdam WWTW, reaching 7.3 million cfu/100ml. This figure is drastically higher than the 29,100 cfu/100ml recorded upstream of the treatment works and far exceeds the acceptable limit for intermediate contact, which is around 2,420 cfu/100ml 2. This stark difference in bacterial levels strongly indicates the Potsdam WWTW as a significant source of faecal contamination in the lagoon.

• 3.3. Foul Odours and Aesthetic Degradation:

Residents in the vicinity of Milnerton Lagoon and Woodbridge Island consistently report the presence of persistent and often nauseating odours of sewage emanating from the lagoon 1. This stench has been described as particularly severe in recent weeks leading up to and into 2025 2. Beyond the unpleasant smell, there have also been visual indicators of the pollution's impact, such as reports of dead fish found in the lagoon 1. These sensory experiences underscore the significant degradation of the environment and the negative impact on the quality of life for those living nearby.

• 3.4. Impact on Recreational Activities:

The severely compromised water quality has directly affected recreational activities associated with Milnerton Lagoon. The Milnerton Canoe Club, for instance, has halted all paddling activities on the lagoon due to its deteriorated state 2. Furthermore, signage has been erected at the mouth of the lagoon warning against swimming or any contact with the water due to the high levels of pollution 6. This curtailment of recreational use signifies a tangible loss of amenity for the community and highlights the extent to which the pollution has rendered the lagoon unsafe and unusable for leisure purposes.

4. Sources and Causes of Pollution:

• 4.1. Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW):

A primary source of the ongoing pollution in Milnerton Lagoon is the Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW), situated approximately 5 kilometers upstream on the Diep River 1. This facility releases over 40 million litres of treated effluent into the Diep River daily, which subsequently flows into the lagoon 6. Despite being a critical piece of infrastructure, the Potsdam WWTW has faced persistent challenges in meeting the required effluent quality guidelines 1. Data from the Department of Water and Sanitation's regulatory information system indicates that the Potsdam WWTW met the minimum effluent quality guideline for only 3% of its monthly tests over the past year leading into 2025 6. Additionally, the plant achieved chemical compliance (measuring elements like nitrogen, phosphates, and ammonia) in only 48% of effluent quality tests and physical compliance (measuring aspects such as suspended solids, pH, and electrical conductivity) in just 31% 6. The Department of Water and Sanitation currently lists Potsdam's effluent quality as 'bad', providing clear evidence of the plant's significant contribution to the pollution problem 6.

• 4.2. Infrastructure Failures:

Beyond the operational challenges at the Potsdam WWTW, failures within the broader sewage infrastructure network also contribute significantly to the pollution of Milnerton Lagoon. There have been multiple reported instances of sewer line collapses that have resulted in raw sewage flowing into the lagoon via stormwater channels 1. Specifically, in 2024, sewer line collapses occurred in July, August, and September, all leading to sewage contamination of the lagoon 2. Furthermore, rehabilitation work undertaken in October 2024 inadvertently caused sewage overflows into stormwater channels that drain into the lagoon 2. These repeated infrastructure failures highlight potential systemic weaknesses in the sewage collection and conveyance system, necessitating not only upgrades to the treatment plant but also a focus on the integrity and maintenance of the entire network.

• 4.3. Urbanization and Informal Settlements:

Rapid urbanization and the proliferation of informal settlements in the Cape Town area, particularly in areas like Dunoon situated along the Diep River, exert considerable pressure on the city's wastewater management infrastructure and contribute to the pollution of Milnerton Lagoon 5. The City of Cape Town itself acknowledged in a 2023 report that informal structures are projected to constitute 55% of all new dwellings within the next two decades 7. The expansion of informal settlements, with over 60,000 new structures between 2016 and 2020 alone, often outpaces the provision of adequate sanitation and waste disposal services 7. Consequently, inadequate sanitation practices in these areas lead to the direct contamination of the Diep River, which ultimately flows into Milnerton Lagoon 12. Research indicates that the water quality in the Diep River is poor, with the Dunoon informal settlement identified as a contributing factor due to insufficient sanitation and waste management 12. The Vryheidsfront Plus has criticized the City of Cape Town for its perceived failure to effectively manage rapid urbanization and its subsequent impact on essential infrastructure and environmental health 7.

• 4.4. Other Potential Sources:

While sewage remains the primary concern, other sources may also contribute to the overall pollution load in Milnerton Lagoon. Environmental activist Zoe Prinsloo mentioned that beach litter, litter originating upstream, and pollutants washed up by the sea add to the existing problems in the lagoon 13. Although these sources may be less significant than the continuous discharge of poorly treated sewage, they nonetheless contribute to the degradation of the lagoon's ecosystem and aesthetic quality.

5. Environmental and Community Impact:

• 5.1. Ecological Consequences:

The persistent pollution in Milnerton Lagoon has significant detrimental effects on its ecological health. As an estuary, the lagoon serves as a vital nursery area for various fish species 2. The documented instances of dead fish in the lagoon are a direct and visible consequence of the poor water quality 1. Furthermore, the excessive organic matter from sewage pollution leads to a drop in dissolved oxygen levels in the Diep River, creating anoxic conditions in some locations 14. This lack of oxygen severely impacts aquatic life, potentially leading to fish kills and disrupting the natural balance of the ecosystem. The high rainfall in September 2024 temporarily improved tidal interchange and increased oxygen levels in the lower reaches of the system, but concerns remain that the lagoon mouth will revert to a less functional state during the summer months, reducing this natural flushing and oxygenation 14.

• 5.2. Health Risks for Residents:

The polluted state of Milnerton Lagoon poses considerable health risks to the residents living in the surrounding areas. Concerns have been raised about the foul odours, which are suspected to contain highly toxic hydrogen sulphide 10. Exposure to such gases can lead to various health issues. Moreover, the high levels of E. coli and Enterococci bacteria in the water increase the risk of infections for anyone coming into contact with the lagoon 1. Recent cases of severe hospitalization following infections by swimmers in other polluted areas of Cape Town highlight the potential severity of these health risks 7. The presence of these pathogens indicates fecal contamination, which can carry a range of waterborne diseases.

• 5.3. Impact on Property Values and Tourism:

While not explicitly detailed in the provided snippets, the persistent and severe pollution of Milnerton Lagoon and the associated foul odours are likely to negatively impact property values in the adjacent Woodbridge Island and Milnerton areas. The desirability of residential properties in close proximity to a heavily polluted and malodorous water body would undoubtedly be diminished. Similarly, the degraded state of the lagoon and the warnings against contact with the water would likely deter tourists and negatively affect local businesses that rely on the area's natural amenities. The ecological disaster unfolding in the lagoon detracts from the area's appeal as a place to live, work, and visit.

6. Ongoing Remediation Efforts and Infrastructure Upgrades:

• 6.1. Potsdam WWTW Upgrade Project:

The City of Cape Town has initiated a substantial R5.2 billion upgrade project for the Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW) in an effort to address the root causes of the pollution 1. This ambitious undertaking, which commenced in April 2023 and is projected to be completed by the end of 2027, aims to more than double the plant's treatment capacity from 47 million litres to 100 million litres per day 1. The upgrades will incorporate cutting-edge membrane technology to ensure higher standards of wastewater treatment and treated effluent 3. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the City is fast-tracking the installation of certain infrastructure components, particularly the dewatering and ultrafiltration installations, which are expected to be operational by approximately mid-2025 1. These early improvements are anticipated to lead to a noticeable enhancement in the quality of treated effluent discharged from the WWTW 1. The Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation has expressed approval for this upgrade project, acknowledging its potential to improve the situation 5.

• 6.2. Other Remedial Actions:

In addition to the major upgrade of the Potsdam WWTW, the City of Cape Town has implemented other measures to mitigate the pollution in Milnerton Lagoon and the Diep River. A six-month aeration trial commenced to increase dissolved oxygen levels in the river, which are depleted due to the high organic matter content from pollution 14. This trial aims to combat the anoxic conditions that harm aquatic life. Regular maintenance activities, such as manual screen cleaning and pump checks, are being conducted at the Koeberg Pump Station to ensure efficient operation and prevent debris from entering the lagoon 1. Furthermore, the City is considering the installation of temporary package plants as a potential short-term intervention to alleviate pressure on existing sewerage infrastructure, including the Potsdam plant 11. These various efforts demonstrate a multi-faceted approach to addressing the complex pollution challenges facing the lagoon.

7. Public and Political Response:

• 7.1. Community Concerns and Advocacy:

The persistent pollution of Milnerton Lagoon has elicited strong reactions and significant concern from the local community. Residents have consistently voiced their anxieties regarding the foul odours, the potential health risks associated with the contaminated water, and the overall degradation of their environment 1. Environmental advocacy groups, such as ReThinkTheStink, have played an active role in monitoring the water quality through independent testing and raising public awareness about the severity of the situation 1. These groups advocate for more transparency and decisive action from the authorities to address the pollution effectively. The community's engagement underscores their deep concern for the health of the lagoon and their desire for a clean and safe environment.

• 7.2. Political Involvement:

The pollution of Milnerton Lagoon has also attracted attention from political parties and government officials. The Vryheidsfront Plus (VF+) has conducted oversight visits to the area and issued statements criticizing the City of Cape Town's management of the pollution, linking it to broader issues of overpopulation and inadequate spatial planning 7. The party argues that the state of the lagoon exemplifies systemic failures in urban planning and infrastructure management. Conversely, the Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation has expressed support for the City's R5.2 billion upgrade of the Potsdam WWTW, recognizing it as a necessary step towards addressing the pollution 5. However, the Deputy Minister also highlighted the significant impact of the rapid growth of informal settlements, such as Dunoon, on the water body, indicating a broader understanding of the multifaceted nature of the problem 5. The involvement of various political actors demonstrates the significance of this issue at a governance level and the differing perspectives on its causes and potential solutions.

8. Conclusion and Outlook:

In conclusion, the pollution status of Milnerton Lagoon and Woodbridge Island in 2025 remains a critical concern. Persistent sewage contamination, primarily stemming from the operational challenges of the Potsdam WWTW and recurring infrastructure failures, continues to plague the lagoon. This results in alarmingly high levels of bacterial contamination, foul odours, and a significant degradation of the aesthetic and recreational value of the area. The ecological consequences are evident in reports of dead fish and reduced biodiversity, while residents face potential health risks from exposure to polluted water and toxic gases.

The City of Cape Town's ongoing R5.2 billion upgrade of the Potsdam WWTW represents a significant long-term effort to address the root causes of the pollution, with anticipated partial improvements expected by mid-2025. However, the full benefits of this project will not be realized until its completion in 2027. In the interim, the community and environmental advocacy groups continue to express their concerns and push for more immediate and effective interventions. The situation necessitates sustained commitment and potentially accelerated action to mitigate the ongoing environmental and health risks associated with the pollution in Milnerton Lagoon.

9. Recommendations:

Based on the analysis of the current pollution status and ongoing efforts, the following recommendations are put forth:

• 9.1. Enhanced Monitoring and Transparency:

The City of Cape Town should implement more frequent and comprehensive water quality monitoring programs for Milnerton Lagoon and the Diep River. This data, including detailed reports on the effluent quality discharged from the Potsdam WWTW, should be made readily accessible to the public to foster transparency and build trust. Furthermore, the planned establishment of a real-time hydrogen sulphide monitoring site at Woodbridge Island should be expedited to provide crucial information on air quality and potential health risks 10.

• 9.2. Expediting Infrastructure Upgrades and Maintenance:

While the Potsdam WWTW upgrade is underway, the City should explore all possible avenues to ensure the project remains on schedule and consider whether the timelines for key components can be accelerated further. Simultaneously, a comprehensive assessment of the existing sewage infrastructure network is crucial to identify and address vulnerabilities that lead to sewer line collapses and overflows. A proactive maintenance and upgrade program should be implemented to prevent future incidents of raw sewage discharge into the lagoon.

• 9.3. Addressing Urbanization and Informal Settlements:

Recognizing the significant impact of rapid urbanization and informal settlements on wastewater management, the City of Cape Town needs to prioritize the development and implementation of sustainable urban planning strategies. These strategies must account for population growth and ensure the provision of adequate sanitation infrastructure and waste management services in both formal and informal settlements. Innovative solutions for improving sanitation and waste disposal practices in informal settlements along the Diep River should be explored and implemented to reduce the direct contamination of the waterway.

• 9.4. Community Engagement and Collaboration:

The City should foster stronger and more consistent communication with residents, environmental advocacy groups, and political stakeholders regarding the pollution status and the progress of remediation efforts. Collaborative initiatives between the City and community-based organizations, such as those involved in water quality monitoring, should be supported and encouraged to harness local knowledge and expertise in addressing the pollution issues.

• 9.5. Further Investigation of Pollution Sources:

While the Potsdam WWTW and infrastructure failures are primary concerns, a comprehensive investigation into other potential sources of pollution, such as industrial discharges or agricultural runoff in the Diep River catchment area, should be conducted. Understanding the full spectrum of pollution sources is essential for developing truly effective and holistic remediation strategies for Milnerton Lagoon.

Table 1: Summary of Water Quality Parameters at Milnerton Lagoon (November 2024)

Note: This table reflects the latest available data prior to 2025 as per the provided snippets and serves as an indicator of the likely conditions in early 2025.

Table 2: Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works Effluent Quality Compliance (Most Recent Year Prior to 2025)

Note: This table reflects the latest available data prior to 2025 as per the provided snippets and serves as an indicator of the likely conditions in early 2025.

10. Works Cited / References

1. Water Quality Updates Milnerton Lagoon, Woodbridge Island, accessed March 18, 2025, https://www.vernonchalmers.photography/2024/04/sewage-problems-at-milnerton-lagoon.html

2. Sewage stench lingers at Milnerton Lagoon - Cape {town} Etc, accessed March 18, 2025, https://www.capetownetc.com/news/sewage-stench-lingers-at-milnerton-lagoon/

3. R5,2-billion upgrade to the Potsdam wastewater plant to benefit 75 000 households and support property development - Cape Business News, accessed March 18, 2025, https://www.cbn.co.za/featured/r52-billion-upgrade-to-the-potsdam-wastewater-plant-to-benefit-75-000-households-and-support-property-development/

4. Look: R5.2bn Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works upgrade on track - Cape Town ETC, accessed March 18, 2025, https://www.capetownetc.com/news/potsdam-upgrade/

5. Deputy minister wades into Milnerton Lagoon stink - Table Talk, accessed March 18, 2025, https://tabletalk.co.za/news/2025-02-03-deputy-minister-wades-into-milnerton-lagoon-stink/

6. Sewage stench lingers at Milnerton Lagoon - The Mail & Guardian, accessed March 18, 2025, https://mg.co.za/the-green-guardian/2024-12-16-sewage-stench-lingers-at-milnerton-lagoon/

7. Milnerton Lagoon suffering from unmanageable migration levels: VF+, accessed March 18, 2025, https://www.capeindependent.com/article/milnerton-lagoon-suffering-from-unmanageable-migration-levels-vf

8. Milnerton Lagoon: Overpopulation and poor spatial planning threaten Cape Town's future | Freedom Front Plus, accessed March 18, 2025, https://www.vfplus.org.za/media-releases/milnerton-lagoon-overpopulation-and-poor-spatial-planning-threaten-cape-towns-future/

9. 2025 - Vernon Chalmers Photography, accessed March 18, 2025, https://www.vernonchalmers.photography/2025

10. Residents raise alarm on health risks of Milnerton environment - IOL, accessed March 18, 2025, https://www.iol.co.za/capeargus/news/residents-raise-alarm-on-health-risks-of-milnerton-environment-4fc1f9a2-089d-4e91-ba9f-a9632c0525a0

11. Draft estuary plan, a step in the right direction for Milnerton Lagoon pollution - Western Cape, accessed March 18, 2025, https://wc.da.org.za/2022/09/draft-estuary-plan-a-step-in-the-right-direction-for-milnerton-lagoon-pollution?fbclid=IwAR2mMtveXTR-uUcWv1K1MC1-pNFAnBk9a5tyXyW9AmwSozN8QU_FFHtJFrI

12. (PDF) The impact of informal settlement on water quality of Diep River in Dunoon, accessed March 18, 2025, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/358044579_The_impact_of_informal_settlement_on_water_quality_of_Diep_River_in_Dunoon

13. Call to improve signs for lagoon 'health hazard' - Isolezwe lesiXhosa, accessed March 18, 2025, https://isolezwelesixhosa.co.za/news/2025-01-23-call-to-improve-signs-for-lagoon-health-hazard/

14. Six-month aeration trial commences at Diep River and Milnerton Lagoon to combat pollution, accessed March 18, 2025, https://www.iol.co.za/capeargus/news/six-month-aeration-trial-commences-at-diep-river-and-milnerton-lagoon-to-combat-pollution-cb1d2192-b1b6-407b-b548-dd1eb7e83e8f

11. Report Compiled by Google Gemini Deep Research March 2025

12. Disclaimer

The 'Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Pollution Status Report March 2025' was compiled by Google Gemini (Deep Research) on the request of Vernon Chalmers Photography. Vernon Chalmers Photography was not instructed by any person, public / private organisation or 3rd party to request compilation and / or publication of the report on the Vernon Chalmers Photography website.

This independent status report is based on information available at the time of its preparation and is provided for informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and completeness, errors and omissions may occur. The compiler of this Pollution Report (Google Gemini Deep Research) and / or Vernon Chalmers Photography (in the capacity as report requester) disclaim any liability for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions and will not be held responsible for any decisions made based on this information.

More Information (Water Quality Updates Milnerton Lagoon, Woodbridge Island)

Top Image © Copyright Vernon Chalmers Photography

New Canon Video-First Creator Products

Canon sets a new standard for content creators with a major launch of three powerful video-first products

London, UK, 26 March 2025 – Today, Canon launches three exciting new products, designed specifically for content creators to elevate their filming experience. The PowerShot V1 is a pocketable camera with a built-in ultra-wide lens – for vloggers and creators who need performance without the bulk. The EOS R50 V is an interchangeable lens camera, built with advanced filmmaking features to unlock creative potential. Finally, its versatile kit lens, the RF-S 14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM PZ, is Canon’s first RF lens with internal power zoom, delivering smooth, professional-looking footage. Each product is built specifically for creators – from vloggers and livestreamers to documentary-makers and social media influencers – delivering high-quality footage in compact and functional designs.

Meet the PowerShot V1: A compact camera for creators on the move

Powerful and pocketable, the PowerShot V1 is a 4K compact camera packed with intuitive filmmaking features. Ideal for creators who need portability, it comes with an integrated ultra-wide lens for easy selfie shots, a large sensor for natural subject separation, and high-quality audio for crystal-clear sound. It also offers intelligent autofocus and advanced stabilisation technology for shake-free footage – perfect for vlogging on the move. Complete with a vari-angle touchscreen for intuitive control, the PowerShot V1 is the ideal companion for creators who need performance without the bulk – a balance of power and simplicity.

Scroll-stopping quality

The PowerShot V1 delivers extended 4K recording thanks to an active cooling system for longer recording sessions – for vloggers or livestreamers who need extended shooting capabilities. It supports 4K 60p1, ensuring high-resolution motion capture, and Full HD 120p for smooth slow-motion footage. This camera also features Canon’s intelligent autofocus system: Dual Pixel CMOS AF II. This enables creators to reliably track themselves and moving subjects in the frame, maintaining sharp focus with minimal effort – even in busy shooting environments. A large 1.4-inch sensor enhances low-light performance, while the built-in 16-50mm f/2.8-4.5 lens provides a versatile zoom range – from wide-angle selfie shots to detailed close-ups.

Compact and simple

The PowerShot V1 weighs just 374g and it fits in your pocket – ideal for creating on the go. It features Optical Image Stabilisation2, enabling smooth handheld recording, catering to the growing demand for high-quality vlogs and travel content. The PowerShot V1 also features a built-in microphone with noise reduction, delivering crisp audio even in busy settings. For enhanced quality, creators can connect an external microphone and monitor audio levels in real time via the headphone jack. The PowerShot V1 is designed to streamline the content creation process, especially while shooting solo. Its vari-angle screen allows for easy framing adjustments, or users can connect a Bluetooth remote for hands-free shooting. Plus, it supports Wi-Fi and USB connectivity for fast file transfers.

Key features of the PowerShot V1:

• Pocketable and lightweight, at 374g
• Built-in 16-50mm f/2.8-4.5 lens
• Large 1.4-inch sensor
• 4K 60p video1
• Full HD 120p
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF II
• Optical Image Stabilisation up to 5 stops2
• Movie digital IS
• Canon Log 3

Introducing the EOS R50 V: An interchangeable lens camera for creative shooting

For creators looking to push their content further, the EOS R50 V offers the freedom of interchangeable lenses with powerful filmmaking features like Canon Log 3, custom colour profiles, and intelligent autofocus. Aimed at creators who want better control over the look and feel of their footage, the EOS R50 V delivers oversampled 4K video and pro-level audio control for ambitious creators that want to elevate their storytelling and grow their brand. From livestreaming and vlogging to cinematic projects and social media content, the EOS R50 V can adapt to diverse shooting scenarios, with a dedicated vertical tripod mount and aspect markers for perfect composition on any platform.

Built to be creative

The EOS R50 V allows creators to find a lens that suits their vision – whether that’s to capture cinematic landscapes for travel vlogs, or intricate close-ups for demos or tutorials. Creators can customise their look with picture styles, colour filters, and slow and fast movie modes for added cinematic impact. The EOS R50 V delivers high-quality footage, with an advanced 24MP sensor and Canon’s intelligent autofocus, Dual Pixel CMOS AF II. It records 4k 60p1 and 4k 30p with 6K oversampling for added detail. For even more creative control, Canon Log 3 enables precise colour grading in post-production, while four-channel audio allows creators to capture multiple sound sources for interviews, podcasts, or multi-mic setups.

Solo shooting made easy

Filming alone can be tricky, but with the EOS R50 V it’s a breeze. It has a vari-angle touchscreen for easy setting adjustments, and a front-facing record button for a quick start to filming. Plus, it can be paired with the RF-S 14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM PZ lens (below), which features an internal power zoom, controllable via the camera’s zoom lever for smooth focal length transitions. The EOS R50 V also offers fast content transfers to smartphones and computers via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB, ready to edit or share quickly. For added convenience, the dedicated LIVE button provides quick access to livestreaming options. The EOS R50 V is compatible with Canon’s Live Switcher Mobile App, for easy multi-camera streaming with custom layouts and direct streaming to YouTube or Facebook – all from a mobile device.

Key features of the EOS R50 V:

• Interchangeable RF lenses
• 24MP APS-C sensor
• 4K 60p1
• 4K 30p, with 6K oversampling
• Full HD 120p
• Canon Log 3
• Dual Pixel CMOS Auto Focus

The RF-S 14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM PZ: An ultra-wide compact lens with an internal power zoom

Whether vlogging, livestreaming or crafting cinematic videos, the RF-S 14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM PZ is designed to elevate your content. It has an internal power zoom for smooth focal-length transitions, and advanced stabilisation for shake-free handheld footage. Combined with quiet autofocus, this ultra-wide non-extending lens is ideal for creators looking for a flexible and compact video-first lens. When combined with the EOS R50 V, the power zoom can be controlled using the camera’s zoom rocker – but it’s also compatible with all EOS R system cameras.

Smooth, stable, and ultra-wide

The RF-S 14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM PZ is the first Canon RF lens with an internal power zoom, delivering precise, controlled focal length transitions with two-step variable speeds and 15 adjustable levels. Optical Image Stabilisation2 ensures shake-free footage even while walking, while UD and aspheric lenses and Super Spectra coating ensures exceptional sharpness. Creators can effortlessly switch between ultra-wide and close-up shots with a versatile 14-30mm zoom range. Plus, a 15cm minimum focus distance makes it easy to capture intricate details – whether filming crafts, collectibles, or product close-ups. All this enclosed in a sleek and simple design, with a combined control and focus ring for quick setting adjustments and no switches on the barrel to prevent accidental changes to AF and IS.

Quiet and compact

A quiet STM autofocus ensures smooth tracking with minimal noise – perfect for vlogging. The RF-S 14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM PZ is lightweight and compact too – just 181g with a non-extending design. This means it stays stable on tripods and gimbals while zooming, perfect for livestreaming set-ups. You can also remotely operate the zoom via smartphone or Bluetooth remote, and attach 58mm filters for creative lighting control.

Key features of the RF-S 14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM PZ:

• 14-30mm zoom range (22-48mm full-frame equivalent)
• Internal Power Zoom with remote operation
• Optical image stabilisation up to 5 stops2
• Combined control and focus ring
• Compact with a non-extending design
• STM autofocus
• 1 UD element

Designed for creators. Built for creativity.

This launch marks a major expansion of Canon’s video-first range, offering purpose-built tools to empower creators at every level. Adding to the existing PowerShot V10 – a pocketable 4K camera for entry-level vloggers – this expanded line-up gives creators the freedom to choose a tool that best fits their vision and needs. Canon is redefining what’s possible for vloggers, filmmakers, and livestreamers alike, helping them turn ideas into reality – all backed by excellent specs.

Media Release: Canon Europe

Photography Student Excitement

Understanding Aperture, Depth of Field and Light

Using A 'Long Lens' for Flower Photography

“Nothing excites me more than witnessing my photography students gaining the understanding of i.e. the advantages and challenges of aperture, depth of field and / or light. A complete new creative world opens up to them – irrespective of camera, lens, distance (and / or subject). For me its not about the quality of their images at first, but the focus and purpose of gaining an understanding of the fundamentals of photography.  

The Garden is a wonderful ‘classroom’ – full of various challenges / and meeting many photographic learning objectives. It’s wonderful to see their own excitement in the process of mastering their 'new' art.” – Vernon Chalmers

With Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/4.5L IS USM lens

Flower Image: © Vernon Chalmers Photography Copyright

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