A fleeting moment turns iconic with a click of the shutter
Independent Media photographer Leon Lestrade has been a photojournalist for more than 30 years.
Image: Supplied
For over three decades, Leon Lestrade has been a quiet observer of history, capturing defining moments through the lens of his camera. On a sunny Sunday in June at Durban's uShaka Beach, he stumbled upon a scene that would etch itself into the annals of South African history.
A group of men carried a paraplegic man into the ocean, an act of camaraderie and strength that prompted Lestrade, armed with his trusted digital camera, to snap away, unaware that what he was capturing was more than just a heartwarming image.
A week later, that moment gained significance when news emerged about Oscar Pistorius' participation in the IronMan competition—the paralympian's first public sporting event since his release on parole for the 2013 Valentine's Day murder of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp.
MAKING A SPLASH: Convicted killer Oscar Pistorius was in Durban participating in the Ironman 70.3 triathlon, his first public sporting event since being released on parole.
Image: Leon Lestrade / Independent Media
For Lestrade, the revelation left him in awe. 'I couldn't believe it," said Lestrade when reflecting on the moment. "I had unknowingly photographed a man with such a complex and controversial history, and it felt surreal." The encounter beautifully encapsulated the intersection of sport, redemption, and public perception.
This year marked a significant milestone for Lestrade, as he celebrated 27 years with Independent Media, having embarked on his photography journey over 30 years ago as a freelancer. Largely self-taught, Lestrade developed his skills on the job, fostering a dedication to his work that has won him numerous awards.
Growing up on the Cape Flats presented its own set of challenges which his family bravely faced, particularly his father, Jack, a professional photographer who navigated a racially segregated industry.
Lestrade recalls, 'My father never wanted to discuss his career, and I can understand his reasons why, but we overcame those obstacles.'
Lestrade's journey began at Independent Newspapers, initially working under picture editor Anne Laing at the Cape Times before transitioning to the Cape Argus, where Jim McLagan mentored him.
His diverse experiences allowed him to hone his skill in various fields, including sports, politics, and feature stories. Throughout his career, he captured countless pivotal moments, but meeting Nelson Mandela stands out as a turning point.
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