VREDENBURG – A night of elegance, grace and poise, one to remember forever, is what matric balls mean to those attending them.

This year on the West Coast, generosity has helped make the occasion even more memorable for several young people.

Amber Seanes of Our Photography Journey has offered free matric-dance photoshoots for years and decided this year was no different.

What began with one spontaneous free shoot has grown into an annual initiative, with next year marking her seventh year.

According to Seanes, every matric student deserves the opportunity to capture this milestone professionally, whether they can afford it or not.

Although the initiative started later this year, Seanes could assist around 10 learners. She said seeing each learner arrive for their shoot was a highlight in itself.

“The sessions are filled with laughter, excitement and plenty of friendliness, creating memories even before the real festivities of the night begin. I hope the photographs will be such that the learners will want to relive the moment many years from now.”

For Magdeleen Vollgraaff, in matric at New Vredenburg High School, receiving a free shoot meant so much to her.

She described her matric dance as “the rainbow after the storm” as she has put in hard work to give her school days the round-off they deserve, not to mention the accompanying celebration. She was thrilled to receive her photographs.

Magdalleen expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who sponsored the shoot, adding it would not have taken place without their generosity.

Local supporters ROLA Mahindra Vredenburg, Holvlei/Langebaan Cars and David Vorster also came on board, sponsoring cars for the matrics.

For them, the gesture was about recognising the learners’ hard work, supporting young people and helping create memories they and their families can treasure forever.

ALSO READ: Photographer wants to make matric unforgettable