Transforming film production with GPS-tagged photography

IN THE competitive world of film production, finding the perfect location is only half the battle - remembering it, mapping it, and coordinating every logistical detail can be a production's toughest challenge.

- DAILY NEWS REPORTER

Umlazi-born Yolanda Zondi, 30, has turned GPS tagging into an art form, embedding exact coordinates into every location photo she takes. This transforms each image into a precise roadmap for directors, producers, and crews, allowing them to revisit any spot — even in remote or similar-looking landscapes ~ without guesswork.

Her GPS-tagged photos feed straight into mapping apps, drones, and navigation systems, streamlining logistics, routing equipment efficiently, and keeping schedules tight.

Beyond the shoot, this tagging simplifies permits, insurance, and record-keeping, creating a complete, auditable archive of locations. Zondi, a Durban University of Technology graduate, and professional photographer for 10 years, does not just scout locations — she maps them, saving productions time, money, and costly mistakes.

The KwaZulu-Natal Tourism, Film and Arts Authority (KZNTAFA) support creatives like Zondi to showcase KZN’s stunning landscapes, vibrant communities, and rich heritage. Through location scouting, production facilitation, and promotion of local talent, KZNTAFA ensures the province shines on national and international stages while empowering local professionals to grow the creative economy.

“Every frame I capture doubles as a postcard for KwaZulu-Natal. Through social media sharing and GPS tagging, I make it easier for film producers to locate potential filming sites across the province.

“This combination of artistic vision and technical precision transforms Yolanda’s frame into more than just a photograph - it’s a logistical roadmap, a marketing tool, and an invitation to explore KZN’s diverse landscapes.