A striking self-portrait taken on a windswept cliff in Dhilba-Guuranda Innes National Park has earned photographer Paulo DeOliveira the top honour in South Australia’s Through the Lens competition.
DeOliveira’s winning entry, Rebirth no.6, merges long exposure landscape photography with a nude self-portrait captured by remote trigger at West Cape. Judges described the image as both daring and thoughtful, awarding it the Judge’s Choice and Portrait categories.
“My panoramic self-portrait, Rebirth no.6 began as a challenge—to merge landscape with self-portrait,” DeOliveira said. “On windswept West Cape, in Dhilba-Guuranda Innes National Park, I lay nude on stone, triggering the shutter with a hidden remote—ISO 80, f/22, 5s exposure. Between grief and new beginning, I offered my body to sea and sky—a ritual of renewal. Created entirely by my hand, it marks my arrival in Australia, a surrender to nature, to love reclaimed, and the strength it takes to begin again.”
This year’s competition drew more than 670 entries, continuing its 13-year tradition of celebrating creative work by Seniors Card members. Alongside DeOliveira’s double win, other category winners included Kim Peterson (Mouse for Lunch), Adrian Barnes (Daisy Spirit), Kay Hargrave (Ageing Utterly Disgracefully), and Jennifer Reeves (Father and son).
Through the Lens is presented by the State Government and Seniors Card as part of International Day of Older Persons and South Australia’s Week of Ageing Well. Minister Nat Cook said the competition showcased the creative spirit of older South Australians.
“Through the Lens is an opportunity to recognise the technical skills and artistic talents of older South Australian photographers,” she said. “They give us a glimpse through the shutter, presenting an amazing range of subjects, supported by deep reflection and a keen eye for detail. The talented finalists and winners this year demonstrate the potential of people to shine in their chosen pastimes—no matter their age. Congratulations to all finalists for their exceptional work and our double winner, Paulo for his thought-provoking photo—the epitome of having skin in the game!”
Judge Lance Peters said DeOliveira’s entry stood out for its concept and execution.
“This image ticks all the boxes for what the judges were looking for,” he said. “The idea to attempt something different with the merging of a self-portrait with a landscape is an inspired if not challenging idea. The image draws you in and at first look it is a landscape but then you notice the person lying on the rocks and the image takes on a different perspective all together. Add in the description and so many questions form in your mind. A great image will make you feel something, tell a story, and ask questions. This image does all of that. Congratulations Paulo!”
An exhibition of winning and finalist works, including Rebirth no.6, is open at City Library in Rundle Mall until the end of October.
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