The contestants of season two of The Perfect Picture, a 10-part celebrity photography reality TV series have spilled the beans on their experiences.
The new season will be hosted by presenter, model and fashion designer Maps Maponyane and features ten celebrities who are all photography beginners.
Contestants go head-to-head in a series of eccentric challenges with the goal of capturing the “perfect picture”.
Maponyane explained that The Perfect Picture is unlike any other presenting job he’s worked on before.
“I had no real idea about reality TV show presenting because there are so many moving parts, I needed to build relationships with the contestants to better understand their process and vision,” Maponyane said.
“Every week, it was incredible to see first-hand how their skills kept improving with the help of the Canon experts. It was a fun challenge that I would gladly take on again.”
Lasizwe Dambuza said as someone typically found in front of the camera, switching direction was a learning curve – but one that was super interesting.
“I’m a videographer and YouTuber, so pictures are more technical for me, but I just love growing in front of you guys,” said Dambuza
Christall Kay said she has always loved taking pictures of her world, but her photography skills were limited to her smartphone.
“I’d never used a professional camera, so it was quite challenging when all this started. But the Canon team who helped us were amazing. Because of this experience, I now have a new respect and passion for photography,” said Kay.
Gugu Khathi said the first episode was close to a nightmare, but they improved each time they picked up their equipment. “Now you won’t see me without a camera. I’ve learnt so much, and I try to find photo opportunities in my everyday life. It’s changed me for the better.”
For Tshego Koke, there’s a huge difference between taking pictures with a cellphone versus a Canon camera.
“During the show, I found my transformation quite beautiful. I moved away from being anxious about holding the camera, to really understanding what it takes to get the perfect shot,” said Koke.
Jonathan Boynton-Lee said The Perfect Picture is not just a reality show, it is where he made some amazing friends.
“The journey was something spectacular and something I won’t forget. I think I speak for everyone when I say thank you for the opportunity to learn so much in such a short space of time,” he said.
Zahirah Marty said the roller coaster of anxiety taught her so much about herself. As a group, they bonded through troubleshooting, panicking, and supporting each other where they could through some incredible challenges and twists.
“I have no doubt viewers will enjoy watching. I walk around looking at things completely differently now; wondering what lens I’d use, and what settings I’d shoot with.”
Ivan Roux said: “The Perfect Picture was an eye-opening experience. It definitely taught me to be more patient, and meeting all these other amazing creators was out of this world.”
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