Grant Schwartzkopff announced as South Australia’s best photographer of 2023

After his wife died, he found a new meaning in photography - now he’s been crowned SA’s best photographer of 2023. See his work here.

Grant Schwartzkopff at one of his favourite photo spots, Headings Cliffs near Renmark, in 2016. Picture: Tom Huntley

A photographer based in the Riverland said his love of photography grew when it filled a void that was left after his wife’s death.

Grant Schwartzkopff, a renowned community and sports photographer based in Renmark, said it was a “quite unbelievable” and “overwhelming” to be crowned The Advertiser’s best photographer of 2023.

The 67-year-old said he found a love for photography after his wife died in 2010 following several medical complications.

“Photography filled that void for me,” he said. “It gave me something to keep myself busy … it’s blossomed from there.”

Tayla Wainwright of Renmark at the 2016 Wakeboard SA state titles. Picture: Grant Schwartzkopff

Action from the match between Cobdogla Football Club and Wunkar in the Riverland Independent Football League on May 15, 2021. Picture: Grant Schwartzkopff

Xander Martin, Kayla Rhodes, Kyan Wishart at the Big 4 Caravan Park, Renmark. Picture: Grant Schwartzkopff

Mr Schwartzkopff said his wife’s death caused many challenges for him but his dedication to getting the perfect photo provided him with a sense of comfort.

The man, who worked as a student support officer at Renmark Primary School for 14 years, now provides photos to the local paper and also publishes online on his website, which he started in 2012.

“I go out every day where sport is being played in the Riverland and take photos,” he said.

“It’s not a money-making scheme, it’s about promoting sport and the Riverland.”

The 67-year-old photographer said he is constantly inspired to take photos. Picture: Tom Huntley

Eudunda’s silo art, by artist Sam Brooks, at night. Picture: Grant Schwartzkopff

Eudunda’s silo art, by artist Sam Brooks. Picture: Grant Schwartzkopff

2019 Riverland Football Club Grand Final winners Renmark Rovers, who prevailed over Waikerie. Picture: Grant Schwartzkopff

The flooded River Murray at Kingston on Murray. Picture: Grant Schwartzkopff

The well-known photographer said he captures a variety of sports including basketball, baseball and swimming carnivals.

“You name it, I’ll give it a go,” he said.

Mr Schwartzkopff said photography was a comforting profession that gives him a sense of calm he can’t find anywhere else.

“It relaxes me … you’re in another world,” he said. “You’re in your own little bubble.

“I’ll just keep doing it as long as people appreciate the pictures.”

Waikerie footballer Daniel Nobes celebrates his 100th goal of the season in the Riverland Football League clash against Loxton Tigers in 2017. Picture: Grant Schwartzkopff

The 2015 Anzac Day Dawn Service at Renmark. Picture: Grant Schwartzkopff

The dedicated photographer said he implored all people with a desire to become a photographer to give it a go.

“I think photography is a really good thing to get into … it's a good path way,” he said.

“It’s good for personal development … I always strive to get a better photo next time.

“It’s a real personal challenge.”

Mr Schwartzkopff said photography also provides the opportunity for people to engage with their “arty” side.

“I’m not an arty person but I love that aspect to it,” he said.

“I’m always looking around thinking ‘that’s a nice spot’.”