Capturing the Depths - An Interview with Alfred Minnaar, Friend of DOXA

Alfred Minnaar, a name synonymous with adventure, deep dives, and breathtaking photography, seamlessly blends his passions to capture the unseen world beneath the waves. Known for his daring spirit and keen eye, Alfred’s journey from a dive instructor to an award-winning photographer is as inspiring as the images he creates.

 

B-Log: Where Did Your Journey Begin?

AM: Photography has always been a part of my life, even back in high school, although I couldn't pursue it formally due to growing up in a small countryside town. It wasn't until I was working as a dive instructor in Indonesia around 2016 that I really got into photography. Each dive center had a dedicated photographer, and when our photographer left, I seized the opportunity to fill that role. I remember reviewing my first batch of photos after a dive and thinking, "This is what I want to do." From then on, I was self-taught, spending every day studying online tutorials and practicing relentlessly. Initially, I focused on straightforward photography on boats, but my work has evolved into storytelling both above and below the water.

 

 

B-Log: What or who has been your biggest inspiration in pursuing underwater photography?

AM: I was incredibly fortunate to be at a dive center frequented by some of the best technical divers, including Will Goodman, a world-record holder in closed-circuit rebreather diving. Working closely with these tech-divers, who often resemble astronauts with their intricate gear and deep dives, sparked my interest in capturing something truly different. At the time, not many people were photographing tech-divers, and I saw an opportunity to stand out. Using platforms like Instagram, I shared my unique content, which rapidly gained attention and helped accelerate my career. This visibility led to bigger projects and significant recognition, including features in prominent diving magazines.

B-Log: Can you tell us about an award-winning project that really put your work on the map?

AM: One of my most notable projects took place in Siberia, Russia. It was a challenging shoot under the ice in the middle of winter. The conditions were extreme, but I was determined not to miss a single dive. The images I captured were so powerful that they earned me an award in the Advertising and Branding category at the International Photography Awards in New York. That project was a turning point for me; it proved my capability and resilience, and I believe it showed that once you can handle such extreme conditions, you're ready for anything. This experience solidified my reputation and opened doors to new adventures and projects.

 

 

B-Log: Where are some of the most inspiring places that you’ve visited?

AM: There are several countries that hold a special place in my heart for their unique characteristics. Pakistan, for instance, surprised me with its rich history and culture, as well as the hospitality of its people. The rugged beauty of the northern regions and the historical depth are truly captivating. Indonesia, with its incredible diversity of cultures and religions, feels like a step back in time, especially in places where traditional boatbuilding continues on the beaches as it did centuries ago. The isolated beauty of Raja Ampat, a region often dubbed as a lost paradise, and the stark isolation of Siberia, with its breathtaking ruggedness, also stand out as some of the most inspiring locations I've visited.

B-Log: What was the trip of your lifetime?

AM: It's tough to pick just one as there have been so many, each with its unique aspects. For diving, Raja Ampat in Indonesia and ice diving in Siberia have been standout experiences due to their exceptional conditions and the unique cultures surrounding these activities. Cave diving in Mexico also ranks highly on my list. On land, trekking in the northern regions of Pakistan in the Himalayas and driving from Cape Town to Nairobi have offered some of the most memorable and scenic experiences of my life.

B-Log: Tell us about your photography awards.

AM: Over the years, I've been fortunate to receive several awards and numerous honorable mentions. Some of the most meaningful include being a top five finalist in the Hasselblad Masters for Photography, which is incredibly prestigious. My first award from the International Photography Awards for a campaign shot in Siberia remains special, as it was a combination of dive and watch brands that showcased my style and capability. I've also been recognized in categories ranging from underwater to historical architecture photography, reflecting my broad interest and versatility in the field.

 

 

B-Log: Do you always wear a watch?

AM: Wearing a watch depends on the job and location, but I've grown quite fond of them over the past six years, especially as I've delved deeper into the stories behind them. I have a collection now and find that wearing a watch can be essential for certain tasks, adding both functional and aesthetic value to my expeditions.

B-Log: When did you first become aware of DOXA?

AM: My introduction to DOXA came around 2017-2018 as I was expanding into commercial photography and looking for brands that aligned with my sense of adventure and commitment to authentic storytelling. DOXA, with its rich history linked to Cousteau and pioneering role in dive watches, immediately stood out. Their focus on durability and history of innovation was a perfect match for my needs as a diver and adventurer.

 

 

B-Log: Can you share details about your recent trip to Namibia with DOXA and Manuel Gussman?

AM: Our recent expedition to Namibia was an unforgettable adventure designed to capture the essence of one of the most visually stunning landscapes in the world. Accompanied by Manuel Gussman, a talented videographer and photographer, we embarked on a journey through this iconic country aboard custom-built 4x4s. Starting in the south, our first stops included the Fish River Canyon and the Quiver Tree Forest, places that set the tone with their stark beauty and unique landscapes.

As we ventured further, we explored the ghost town of Kolmanskop near the town of Lüderitz, an eerie yet fascinating site that perfectly captures the blend of historical and natural allure that Namibia offers. Traveling north through the desert, we visited Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, iconic for their red sand dunes and dead acacia trees—a photographer's paradise.

 

 

The journey didn't stop there; we continued to the Skeleton Coast, capturing its hauntingly beautiful coastlines, and then on to Etosha National Park, where the wildlife photography was simply second to none. Namibia's rugged beauty is overwhelming—its vast deserts, vibrant colors, and immense skies create surreal scenes that are, indeed, like something out of a movie.

Traveling with Manuel was fantastic; his videography complemented the still images I captured, documenting our journey through such a powerful and isolated environment. The contrasts of red sand, yellow grass, and blue skies created a palette that made each image a work of art. This trip wasn't just about capturing images; it was about capturing the spirit of an extraordinary place.

 

 

Alfred Minnaar continues to push the boundaries of photography, both above and below the waves.  Capturing the ethereal beauty of the aquatic world and bringing to light the stories of those who explore the depths of the oceans, as well as capturing scenes on land around the vast planet that we all inhabit. His partnership with DOXA not only highlights the technical prowess of their dive watches but also aligns perfectly with his spirit of adventure and discovery.

Check out Alfred’s stunning photography on Instagram @alfredminnaarphotography