Visual Storytellers for the Wild at Heart
It's good to meet you! We're Stephen and Cloeme, the official crew behind Stephen Michael. We work great together, ensuring that each photo and film is worthy of being handed down to generations. We absolutely love what we do and work tirelessly to ensure you have an incredible experience. We are driven by your special moments, searching for the details that make your story unique; that's what inspires us. We feel so privileged that we can capture your priceless milestones and adventures. It is an honour that we hold very dear. We appreciate people from all walks of life; we get thrilled over clients who are keen on adventure. There's nothing more magical than capturing authentic memories in spaces that you come alive in.
Stephen Pilbrough
A photographer based in Durban, South Africa—but born in Zimbabwe, where I developed my love for photography. I started this journey in 2015 and have never looked back! I'm creative at heart, and delving into people's stories and capturing the moments as they unfold. I enjoy making people feel comfortable in their own skin, hence the natural feel of my photos. When it comes to adventure and trying new things with my art, you'll discover the animated side of me. I aspire to push my craft to new heights. Always down for an adventure.
Cloeme Swart
Hi, I'm Cloeme. Pronounced "Cloo-may." I've been on this journey with Stephen for three years and counting! If you get a response in Afrikaans, you know it's me, not Steve. If I don't get to meet you in person, know I'm working behind the scenes to add extra shimmer to your story. I grew up as a bit of a nomad because of my dad's work. However, Durban's had my heart for the last 10 years. My travels have given me a beautiful perspective of the world, which helps when we work together to tell your story! After high school, I studied criminal psychology, but creativity got the better of me, and here I am to stay.
Our Approach
With a decade of industry experience, we understand all the intricacies of organising and executing a shoot. We will guide you through the entire process, giving you the best tips and tricks along the way. We also know that your story is unique and want to capture it as exactly that. We blend the steps of each session with who you and your loved ones are and what you want to remember years down the line - all while having the best time. We will help you to relax and enjoy each session with us. We'll provide prompts to guide you every step of the way, but we'll also encourage you to enjoy the moments for more candid shots. We're always up for the unconventional.
Let us capture you most treasured moments
Why we offer photography and film?
Each medium tells a story in a unique way. Photography captures a single, timeless moment—one that can be framed, shared, and cherished forever.
Film, on the other hand, brings moments to life, preserving movement, emotion, and sound in a way that still images cannot.
Together, they provide a complete storytelling experience, allowing our clients to relive their most important memories in both dynamic and timeless formats.
By offering both services, we ensure that every detail is covered—whether it’s the quiet elegance of a perfectly composed photograph or the immersive experience of a cinematic film. Each serves a different purpose, but together, they create a lasting impact.
Testimonials
Steve has been an integral part of our most cherished milestones—from our engagement and engagement shoot to our wedding and the arrival of our first baby. His presence is an absolute joy, and he effortlessly blends into the moments, making everything feel natural. He has an incredible eye for detail and always finds ways to add thoughtful touches that make our photos truly special. His creativity brings these moments to life in the most beautiful way, and we’re so grateful for the stunning memories he’s captured for us to treasure forever.
Jared & Liz
Testimonials
Stephen is an AMAZING photographer with a great eye for detail and capturing moments that you will treasure for a lifetime! He makes you feel so comfortable and makes the photoshoot so fun. The photos always turn out absolutely beautiful and I can’t recommend him enough! Thanks Stephen and the team for your awesome work!
Nico & Michelle
Authenticity
We want to capture the real you, the beautifully messy, loud, quiet, fun, and joyful you. Every story has unique elements, and the best stories are the ones in which the characters embrace their true selves. Be you. You are a unique and beautiful creation. Let's celebrate that.
Comfort
A photography or film session should be easy and not daunting. Our job is to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera. We'll provide direction and ease you into natural motions. For the most part, we encourage you to be naturally you!
Adventure
Nothing speaks authenticity like an adventure designed around your energy. Let's chat about where you'd like this experience to take you and how you'd like your memories to be portrayed. We're happy to travel to destinations that reflect who you are in this space and time.
Destination wedding bucket list
We love to travel. If you are getting married or eloping, we would be thrilled to meet you there and document your dream destination wedding. We do have a bucket list of place we are wanting to shoot in.
We can capture your celebration anywhere in the world. Our bags are packed and ready!