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September 19, 2025

Living with Secondary PTSD: When Trauma Echoes Beyond the Survivor

Living with Secondary PTSD: When Trauma Echoes Beyond the Survivor Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, more commonly known as PTSD, is a mental illness that develops after a person has experienced severe trauma. It is not something someone chooses. It is not a weakness. It is an involuntary condition caused by overwhelming life experiences—events that push the …

About Me

Hello. My name is Lauren and I am a freelance photographer and blogger, living in Cape Town, South Africa. I love taking beautiful stylish photos, filled with passion.

Lauren Maker Eyes

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purephotography.co.za

✈️ | African Travel Expert
🐾 | Wildlife & Nature
📸 | Photographer
✍🏻 | Travel+Food blogger
🇿🇦| CPT, South Africa
🌐 | www.purephotography.co.za

If your camera roll is 90% sunsets, street food, a

If your camera roll is 90% sunsets, street food, and “accidental masterpieces,” you’re in the right place. 📸 Dive into www.purephotography.co.za
— where wanderlust meets the perfect lighting. From epic travel stories to photography tips that make your friends say, “How did you take that shot?”, it’s your one-stop destination for all things photography and travel. Warning: side effects may include sudden urges to book flights and buy new lenses. ✈️📷#TravelPhotography #Wanderlust #PurePhotography #TravelBlogger #TravelPhotographer #AdventureAwaits #ExploreTheWorld #InstaTravel #PhotographyLovers #TravelGoals

A stunning butterfly 🦋 with elegant black and whit

A stunning butterfly 🦋 with elegant black and white wings delicately sips nectar from a cluster of vibrant purple flowers 🌸. The soft green background enhances the beauty and tranquility of the scene, capturing the fragile grace of nature 🌿. The photograph exudes serenity, balance, and the intricate charm of the natural world.#Butterfly #NaturePhotography #Wildlife #MacroShot #InsectLovers #BeautifulWings #FloralBeauty #Pollinator #SpringVibes #CloseUp #NaturalWonder #PeacefulMoment #ColorContrast #GardenLife #PhotographyArt

Golden morning light spills gently through the gar

Golden morning light spills gently through the garden, wrapping petals in a soft, honeyed glow. Dewdrops shimmer like tiny stars, clinging to leaves that stretch toward the warmth. Silhouettes of ferns and wildflowers sway quietly, whispering secrets to the breeze. The air feels alive — crisp, new, and full of promise. Sunlight dances through petals of rose and marigold, painting the earth in tender hues. Shadows and light mingle in perfect harmony, a fleeting moment of peace before the day unfolds. 🌸☀️🍃#MorningGlow #GardenMagic #NatureWhispers #SunlightKiss #GoldenHour #BloomingBeauty #PeacefulStart #NatureLove #DewdropDreams #serenesilhouette

In the heart of Old Delhi, where history breathes

In the heart of Old Delhi, where history breathes through every stone and street, I found beauty hanging quietly on a simple clothesline. 🌞 Against the grand silhouette of ancient domes — their weathered sandstone whispering tales of empires past — freshly washed fabrics fluttered in the dry Delhi breeze. The contrast was mesmerizing: the soft texture of daily life set against the majesty of Mughal architecture. As I stood there with my camera, I realized how moments like these define the soul of this city — ordinary yet profoundly poetic. A splash of color from plastic clothespins, the hum of the bazaar below, and the golden afternoon light coming alive on the dome’s carvings — this was Delhi, raw and timeless. 📸 Sometimes, it’s not the monuments themselves but the life that happens around them that truly captures the spirit of a place. 💛To see more : www.purephotography.co.za#OldDelhi #TravelPhotography #IncredibleIndia #DelhiDiaries #StreetPhotography #EverydayIndia #WashingLineStories #CulturalContrast #PhotoOfTheDay #IndiaThroughMyLens #TravelBlogger #HistoricVibes #DelhiMagic #LifeInFrames #SoulOfIndia

The Cellars-Hohenort is one of Cape Town’s quietly

The Cellars-Hohenort is one of Cape Town’s quietly spectacular gems — a place that feels like being in an old-world country estate, but with all the comforts of luxurious hospitality. Here's a description to bring it to life (in case you ever want to show someone what makes it specialI adore this hotel.Check out my visit - https://www.purephotography.co.za/portfolio-item/cellars-hohenort-hotel/#CellarsHohenort #CapeTownLuxury #HiddenGemCapeTown #ConstantiaValley #CapeTownHotels #SouthAfricaTravel #LuxuryInCapeTown #GreenhouseCapeTown #TheConservatory #CapeTownDining #WineAndDine #FoodieCapeTown

Monochrome sky photos reveal striking silhouettes

Monochrome sky photos reveal striking silhouettes of aloes and cactus plants 🌵☁️🖤 — their forms etched against a dramatic horizon. The absence of color amplifies texture, light, and shadow, creating a timeless desert serenity. And seagulls flying high!www.purephotography.co.za🌿🌿🌿#MonochromeMagic #CactusLove #AloeBeauty #DesertVibes #BlackAndWhiteArt #NatureSilhouettes #Minimalism #SkyGaze #PhotoArt #Botanical #Textures #DesertMood #FineArtPhoto #NatureLovers #timelessbeauty

Amidst the golden hues of Jaipur’s sacred Monkey T

Amidst the golden hues of Jaipur’s sacred Monkey Temple, two graceful monkeys gently groom each other, their glossy fur glistening in the sun. The serene moment radiates affection, purity, and timeless charm — nature’s tender elegance in motion. 🐒💫🌸#Jaipur #MonkeyTemple #Beauty #Charm #Nature #Serenity #Harmony #Love #GoldenGlow #SacredIndia #WildGrace #Peace

Tucked away in the serene beauty of Robertson, Lun

Tucked away in the serene beauty of Robertson, Luna Cabin is a dreamy off-the-grid escape designed for couples seeking true peace and connection 🌿. This well-appointed cabin is perched perfectly to offer 360-degree panoramic views of rolling mountains and endless skies, where the stars shine brighter than you’ve ever seen ✨. Every detail has been thoughtfully created to combine comfort with simplicity, inviting you to slow down, breathe deeply, and immerse yourself in nature.From sunrise painting the peaks to sunset’s golden glow, Luna Cabin delivers an ever-changing canvas right outside your door. As night falls, step outside and be mesmerized by a celestial display of stars, unspoiled by city lights. Inside, the cozy interiors blend modern touches with rustic charm, making it the perfect haven for rest, reflection, and romance 🌸.Whether you’re curling up with a book, sharing a glass of wine on the deck, or simply soaking in the silence, Luna Cabin provides the perfect retreat to reconnect with yourself and your partner. It’s more than just a stay—it’s an experience of stillness, wonder, and beauty in every direction.Read more : https://www.purephotography.co.za/roberston-and-luna-cabin/#LunaCabin #RobertsonRetreat #OffGridEscape #CouplesRetreat #RomanticGetaway #MountainViews #StarGazing #NatureEscape #EcoRetreat #WildernessRetreat #LuxuryCabin #NatureStay #SerenityNow #UnplugAndRecharge #HiddenGem #TravelSouthAfrica #SlowTravel #SustainableTravel #EscapeToNature #cabingoals

Tucked away in the serene beauty of Robertson, Lun

Tucked away in the serene beauty of Robertson, Luna Cabin is a dreamy off-the-grid escape designed for couples seeking true peace and connection 🌿. This well-appointed cabin is perched perfectly to offer 360-degree panoramic views of rolling mountains and endless skies, where the stars shine brighter than you’ve ever seen ✨. Every detail has been thoughtfully created to combine comfort with simplicity, inviting you to slow down, breathe deeply, and immerse yourself in nature.From sunrise painting the peaks to sunset’s golden glow, Luna Cabin delivers an ever-changing canvas right outside your door. As night falls, step outside and be mesmerized by a celestial display of stars, unspoiled by city lights. Inside, the cozy interiors blend modern touches with rustic charm, making it the perfect haven for rest, reflection, and romance 🌸.Whether you’re curling up with a book, sharing a glass of wine on the deck, or simply soaking in the silence, Luna Cabin provides the perfect retreat to reconnect with yourself and your partner. It’s more than just a stay—it’s an experience of stillness, wonder, and beauty in every direction.#LunaCabin #RobertsonRetreat #OffGridEscape #CouplesRetreat #RomanticGetaway #MountainViews #StarGazing #NatureEscape #EcoRetreat #WildernessRetreat #LuxuryCabin #NatureStay #SerenityNow #UnplugAndRecharge #HiddenGem #TravelSouthAfrica #SlowTravel #SustainableTravel #EscapeToNature #cabingoals

The Werf at Boschendal is a historic Cape Dutch fa

The Werf at Boschendal is a historic Cape Dutch farmstead turned into a vibrant hub of food, wine, and culture. Nestled among lush gardens and mountains, it offers a farm-to-table restaurant, curated picnics, artisanal markets, and a celebration of sustainability 🌿. Boschendal itself is one of South Africa’s oldest wine estates, renowned for its award-winning wines, breathtaking landscapes, and rich heritage 🍷. Visitors can explore trails, relax under oak trees, or immerse themselves in farm living 🏡. Together, The Werf and Boschendal create an unforgettable destination blending history, nature, and modern luxury.The Werf is undergoing a huge revamp! Cannot wait to see its new magic! 💛#Boschendal #TheWerf #WineEstate #SouthAfrica #CapeWinelands #WineLovers #HistoricEstate #LuxuryTravel #WinelandsEscape #WineTasting #FarmToTable #GourmetDining #CapeDutch #WinelandsRetreat #SustainableLiving #EstateLife #SouthAfricanWines #WineExperience #HeritageEstate #WineCountry #PicnicVibes #WinelandsAdventure #LuxuryEstate #CapeHeritage #FineDining #FoodieTravel #EstateViews #WinelandsLifestyle #NatureRetreat #wineanddine

The Sky Dances at Dusk: Speckled Starlings and Sun

The Sky Dances at Dusk: Speckled Starlings and Sunsets Over Noordhoek BeachEvery evening, just before the sun slips behind the Atlantic and paints Noordhoek Beach in molten golds and sleepy pinks, I find myself exactly where I want to be—on my patio. Mug in hand, heart wide open, eyes fixed on the sky. Because I know what’s coming. A show. A murmuration. A moment of magic. ☀🦅💛Read More : https://www.purephotography.co.za/speckled-starlings/#Starlings
#EuropeanStarling
#CommonStarling
#Murmuration
#StarlingMurmuration
#BirdMurmuration
#FlockingBirds
#StarlingFlock
#BirdsInFlight
#BirdWatching
#BirdersOfInstagram
#BirdPhotography
#BirdingLife
#WildlifePhotography
#BackyardBirds
#BirdNerd
#BirdLovers
#BirdBrilliance
#AvianArt
Read More: https://www.purephotography.co.za/speckled-starlings/

The Overberg in spring is a golden dream, where en

The Overberg in spring is a golden dream, where endless canola fields ripple like oceans of sunshine 🌻. Rolling hills glow in brilliant yellow, contrasting against deep blue skies and scattered clouds. The scent of blossoms lingers in the breeze, carried over farms, valleys, and winding country roads 🚜. Birds soar overhead, and bees hum busily among the flowers, completing this picture of abundance and life. Driving through the Overberg feels like stepping into a painting, each turn unveiling another stretch of luminous beauty 🌄. The canola fields are not just crops—they are living tapestries of nature’s artistry and renewal.#OverbergMagic #CanolaFields #GoldenDream #NatureBeauty #OverbergViews #SouthAfricaTravel #FlowerFields #TravelPhotography #ScenicDrive #NatureLovers #FieldsOfGold #SpringInSA #WanderSouthAfrica #RuralBeauty #SoulfulViews #FarmLife #BloomSeason #LandscapeLovers #PeacefulEscape #naturalwonder

It feels like a deep ache in the soul mixed with a

It feels like a deep ache in the soul mixed with a glowing spark of hope. Wanting peace, love, and tolerance across the world is both a longing and a calling—an urgent desire for humanity to rise above greed, power struggles, and the endless cycle of violence.It’s looking at the chaos—wars, corruption, exploitation—and knowing, it doesn’t have to be this way. It’s yearning for leaders who value compassion over control, for societies that uplift instead of oppress, and for a world where people embrace each other’s differences instead of fearing them.The prayer, no matter where it’s directed or what sacred text inspires it, is the same:
A prayer for healing, for understanding, for awakening.It’s not passive; it’s an energy, a fire inside that says: We can do better. We must do better. When we “light up this world with peace,” it isn’t just a dream—it’s an action, one heart at a time, spreading love like a ripple that cannot be stopped.✨ It feels like holding the entire planet in your chest and whispering: May we finally remember we are one familySee more : https://www.purephotography.co.za/photography-portfolio/
🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻#PrayForPeace
#PeaceOnEarth
#LightOverDarkness
#SpreadLoveNotHate
#OneWorldOneLove
#PrayersForHumanity
#PeaceAndLove
#StopTheWar
#WorldPeaceNow
#LoveIsTheAnswer
#HealTheWorld
#UnitedForPeace
#CompassionOverGreed
#GlobalHealing
#PeaceWithinPeaceWithout
#PrayersForPeace
#LoveWithoutBorders
#NoMoreWar
#PeacefulWorld
#TogetherForHumanity

The Cape Winelands is one of South Africa's most e

The Cape Winelands is one of South Africa's most enchanting regions. No doubt, celebrated for its stunning landscapes, historic vineyards, and world-class wines. It is found within the Western Cape province. And includes a blend of rolling vineyards, majestic mountain ranges, and charming towns. Uniquely, offering its unique appeal.The Cape Winelands is one of South Africa's most enchanting regions, read more : https://www.purephotography.co.za/winelands-in-cape-town/#CapeWinelands 🍷🍇🌿
#WineCountrySA 🍇🥂🌞
#VineyardViews 🍷🌄🍇
#DiscoverCapeWinelands 🌍🍷✨
#WinelandsEscape 🌿🍷🏞️
#CapeTownWine 🍷🍇🌅
#WineAndDine 🍷🍴☀️
#SipSavorExplore 🥂🍇🌍
#GourmetInTheWinelands 🍷🍽️🌸

Babylonstoren 🍇 is a historic Cape Dutch wine esta

Babylonstoren 🍇 is a historic Cape Dutch wine estate in South Africa’s Franschhoek Valley, dating back to 1692. With sprawling vineyards, orchards, and an eight-acre garden 🌿, it offers fresh, seasonal produce for its award-winning restaurants. Guests can enjoy wine tastings, guided garden walks, spa experiences, and luxurious farm-style cottages 🏡. Sustainability and a farm-to-fork philosophy create an authentic yet elegant escape.Read more about this beautiful experience :
https://www.purephotography.co.za/wine-museum/.#Babylonstoren #WineFarm #Franschhoek #CapeWinelands #SouthAfricaTravel #LuxuryStay #FarmLife #GardenTour #FarmToFork #SustainableLiving #VineyardViews #WineTasting #CapeDutch #LuxuryCottages #FoodieTravel #Winelovers #TravelGoals #NatureRetreat #GourmetDining #HeritageSite

Chameleons are colour-shifting lizards 🦎 with zygo

Chameleons are colour-shifting lizards 🦎 with zygodactylous feet, turret-like eyes 👀, and prehensile tails, blending into their environment for camouflage. To photograph them, use a macro lens for detail, keep a steady hand, and focus on the eyes.Natural light works best—avoid harsh flash to prevent stress. Patience is key, as their slow, deliberate movements allow for precise framing 📸. Capture their unique skin texture and background harmony.It sounds easy but its not - read more https://www.purephotography.co.za/chameleons/#chameleon #wildlifephotography #reptiles #nature #macro #lizard #camouflage #herpetology #animalphotography #naturelovers #colourchange #wildlife #closeup #macrophoto #zoology #naturephotography #wildlife_perfection #nature_shooters #macro_lovers #exoticanimals #happytimes #naturewinseverytime

Elegant restored manor with lush gardens, ornate f

Elegant restored manor with lush gardens, ornate fountains, and lavender paths. Spacious rooms, luxurious villa suites, two pools, spa indulgence, acclaimed Monneaux cuisine—charming, tranquil, indulgent. 🍷✨🌿Read more : https://www.purephotography.co.za/franschhoek-country-house-villas/
#Franschhoek #CountryHouse #LuxuryRetreat #Winelands #CapeWinelands #BoutiqueHotel #ManorHouse #VillaSuites #SpaEscape #FineDining #MonneauxRestaurant #PeacefulStay #GardenOasis #Lavender #Fountains #WineTasting #SouthAfricaTravel #ScenicViews #Relaxation #RomanticGetaway #VintageCharm #SwimmingPools #ProvenceVibes #TravelSouthAfrica #gourmetexperience

Udaipur, the "City of Lakes," is a breathtaking bl

Udaipur, the "City of Lakes," is a breathtaking blend of royal heritage, shimmering waters, and majestic palaces nestled in the Aravalli Hills. Its timeless charm is reflected in the serene Lake Pichola, the opulent City Palace, and the romantic allure of Jag Mandir. Wander through vibrant bazaars, marvel at intricate architecture, and soak in mesmerizing sunsets over the lake. Rich in culture and history, Udaipur offers a magical escape into Rajasthan’s regal past. 🌅🏰🛶See more photographs of this incredible city : https://www.purephotography.co.za/portfolio-item/udaipur/#Udaipur #CityOfLakes #Rajasthan #IncredibleIndia #TravelIndia #RoyalHeritage #LakePichola #CityPalace #IndianCulture #PalaceView
#LuxuryTravel #HistoricCity #TravelGoals #DesertBeauty #WanderlustIndia #IndianArchitecture #SunsetVibes #CulturalGem #HiddenParadise #TravelDiaries

From the top of Franschhoek Drive, the valley unfo

From the top of Franschhoek Drive, the valley unfolds like a painting — lush vineyards stretch across rolling hills, dotted with charming Cape Dutch cottages. Towering mountains cradle the fertile land, their peaks dusted with mist. The air is crisp, scented with wildflowers and wine. Below, the village shimmers with promise, nestled among the vines. It’s a breathtaking panorama of nature and heritage. 🌄🍇🏞️Check out my portfolio : https://www.purephotography.co.za/portfolio-item/franschhoek-country-house/#Franschhoek #SouthAfrica #WineValley #MountainViews #CapeWinelands #ScenicDrive #TravelSouthAfrica #Vineyards #NatureLovers #AdventureTime #PanoramicViews #WineCountry #TravelGoals #HiddenGems #BucketListTrip #LandscapeLovers #ExploreSA #FranschhoekDrive #EcoEscape #valleyviews

A towering elephant bull emerged from the bush in

A towering elephant bull emerged from the bush in Kruger, ears flared, tusks gleaming in the sun 🐘. He paused at a waterhole, trunk curling gracefully to drink, while a herd of females and calves followed behind. One tiny calf tried to mimic the adults, splashing itself playfully 🐾. The scene was peaceful, powerful, and utterly unforgettable 🌿. Watching them interact so gently reminded us just how intelligent and emotional these giants truly are.Read more about these gentle giants : https://www.purephotography.co.za/elephants-gentle-giants/#KrugerNationalPark #ElephantSighting #WildlifeSafari #AfricanElephants #BigFive #NatureLovers #SafariMoments #SouthAfricaTravel #EcoTourism #BushveldBeauty #WildlifePhotography #ElephantLove #GentleGiants #AnimalEncounters #SafariLife #TravelAfrica #KrugerMagic #NatureVibes #TrunkTales #familyherd

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