A Matric Dance Dream at Rupert & Rothschild Estate, Cape Town.
- Ashley Chapman

- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
There are some photoshoots that feel like they belong in a movie — where every detail, every laugh, and every glimmer of sunlight seems to align perfectly. This matric dance session at the breath-taking Rupert & Rothschild Estate was exactly that kind of magic. From the moment we arrived, we were spoiled with beauty in every direction — the lush rose-covered walls, the manicured flower gardens, and the majestic mountain views that framed it all so effortlessly. It was as if we had stepped right onto the set of Bridgerton, with nature providing the most exquisite backdrop imaginable.

Emily looked absolutely stunning in her deep burgundy dress — a gown that seemed to glow under the golden hour sun. The way the satin fabric caught the light, the way it flowed as she moved — it was the definition of timeless elegance. Her natural grace and warm smile made capturing her portraits such a joy. Every frame seemed to tell a story — one of excitement, confidence, and that once-in-a-lifetime feeling that only a matric dance can bring.
And then there was Jemma, whose dress carried a story so special it still gives me goosebumps. Her gown wasn’t just beautiful — it was deeply meaningful. It had been passed down through three generations of women: first worn by her grandmother, then by her mother, and now by Jemma. There’s something truly poetic about that — how a single dress can hold decades of memories, love, and laughter, and still shine just as brightly in a new era. Watching her wear it so gracefully, with the soft evening light filtering through the rose garden, felt like witnessing a continuation of a beautiful family legacy.
Both of the girls’ partners were absolute naturals in front of the camera — relaxed, charming, and full of good energy. They made the shoot flow effortlessly, adding those genuine, candid moments that make a gallery come alive. Whether it was a quiet smile shared between poses or a spontaneous twirl in the garden, every interaction felt real and full of emotion. It’s always such a treat when the people I photograph are fully present in the moment, enjoying themselves and trusting me to capture it all.
What made this shoot particularly memorable was how seamlessly everything came together — the stunning outfits, the joyful energy, and the golden light that bathed the entire estate in a soft, romantic glow. Rupert & Rothschild truly is a photographer’s dream. Each turn offers a new scene waiting to be captured — from cobblestone paths wrapped in ivy to gardens bursting with colour and open spaces that reveal sweeping views of the mountains. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t just create beautiful photos — it creates an experience.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting that last bit of warm light across the vineyard, I took a moment to pause and soak it all in. The laughter, the elegance, the love shared between friends and partners — it all felt so authentic and heartfelt. This wasn’t just another matric dance shoot; it was a celebration of youth, of new beginnings, and of the beauty that comes with closing one chapter and stepping into another.
Emily and Jemma both brought their unique personalities and styles to the shoot, and together they created something truly magical. These are the kinds of moments that remind me why I love what I do — preserving stories, emotions, and memories that will be cherished for years to come.
To Rupert & Rothschild, thank you for providing the dreamiest backdrop. And to Emily, Jemma, and your wonderful partners — thank you for letting me capture this milestone in such a meaningful way. Here’s to laughter, love, and the memories that make life sparkle just a little brighter. ✨
If you’re ever looking to capture your own unforgettable moments — whether it’s your matric dance, a milestone celebration, or simply a season of your life you never want to forget — I’m your girl. ✨ As a Cape Town photographer, I specialize in creating warm, storytelling imagery that reflects the real emotions behind every moment. From the dreamy vineyards of Rupert & Rothschild to the golden beaches and mountain views that make the Western Cape so magical, I’ll help you turn life’s fleeting moments into timeless memories you’ll treasure forever. 📸







































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