Dawie was born and raised in South Africa. Growing up in a family that has a keen interest in wildlife and photography Dawie travelled through Southern Africa regularly and so his love and passion for wildlife developed. With his profound interest in wildlife he decided to start working as a guide in the world renowned Sabi Sands Game Reserve where he could share his passion of animals and photography with his clients. Having the knowledge to read animal behaviour and anticipate their movement is a great benefit for his clients to get the best possible photographs.