I’ve always been proud being called a South African. Thursday, 24 June 2010, I was even a bit “prouder.” I’ve experienced a soccer match at the Green Point Stadium in Cape Town – South Africa. It actually was a little bit overwhelming. I am still digesting everything I saw and heard and who knows what else. This probably is a once in a lifetime experience and I am so glad I had the chance to go.

We left quite early the afternoon to meet up with some friends and just walked around and enjoyed the “gees.” Painted faces, colourful outfits, vuvuzelas, wigs and laughter was to be seen and heard everywhere.

And I just enjoyed it so much walking around with my camera and…NEW LENS! A bit more about this later.

…and oh yes, before I forget, the game was between Netherlands and Cameroon.

Thanks to Maré for this photo!

My housemates: Willemien and Adri.

Maré, my right hand who will sooooooon be going solo!!!!

Christine and Adri:

I asked if I could take a photo of this couple who was also walking “the fan walk” and they were not even on their way to the game, just enjoying all the people and Soccer World cup energy!

Christine:

Photographers will be photographers!

Whenever someone took photos of the other, random strangers would ask if they could take a picture of the 3 of us together. It was great!

Some more friends with whom we met up later: Monica Dart (our ever-young-friend!)

and (face pulling) Jules Morgan: Our gentle spirit friend!!!

This is (unfortunately) not my lens (yet.) Jules was so amazing to lend me her Tilt Shift lens for the evening:

A few of us: Anske, Sjanmarie, Christine, Iaan, Monica, Adri and myself

Tilt Shift lens photo: I’ve always wanted to play with it, especially at a sports-game, and now I had the opportunity! I just LOVE how you can make it look like a ”miniature scene.”

Monica and myself:

Tilt Shift lens photo:

Lydia (probably laughing at Adri):

Tilt Shift lens photo

Iaan blowing the Vuvuzela, joining the other thousands! I did buy earplugs for a backup, but never needed them. There are so many vuvuzelas, it is like one constant “bee hive” sound…or maybe rather noice. But a good one.

Tilt Shift lens photo:

A Dutch-lady extremely happy after Netherlands scored their 2nd goal:

Tilt Shift lens photo: