“Rick Brandsteder Overcomes Addiction and Wins Photography Contest in South Africa”

The amateur photographers have to get up early in the morning to take pictures of birds in a botanical park. Something that Rick Brandsteder now experiences differently, he says in conversation with presenter Tijl Beckand. “A few months ago I started this with a rotten head: I did not shy away from a party or a party. If you then wake up completely fresh and clear, then you can open your curtains and seize the day.”

That works in beautiful South Africa, the country where Rick has kicked the habit and now returns for the RTL program. “It was kind of a rat race which you always participate in”, he looks back on his addiction. “As a child I grew up with a well-known father. That’s why I went to autofocus and I never really focused myself,” Rick describes his problems in photography language.

He continues: “I’ve become detached from myself during that time. This is not what I want and it’s not going in the right direction this way. If you try to numb that one more time, you’ll go away completely. It was important to get in line with myself.”

That’s why Rick wants to be freed from his addictions. “That worked out quite well. But I also realize that in that clinic it is a safe place is. Now the real work begins. I’m going well and I’m not going to blow too high of the tower. I do everything nice and relaxed, as I will experience this day.”

That goes well for Rick. So good that he takes the best shot on the first shoot. He gets an 8.5 for his bird photo. “I can be a bit more confident and believe in myself. It came as a surprise, but I’m super happy.”

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During the second photo shoot, Rick does not get further than fifth place, after which he gets second place in this episode due to his average. Only Leonie ter Braak does slightly better.

The participants say goodbye to Rob Dekay. He really enjoyed the program, but his score is not enough to continue. “It is what it is. I’ve had many great conversations with people: with locals, with fellow candidates. I think it was necessary for my life to have been here,” he says. “A little too short, but valuable.”

The Picture Perfect Travel can be seen every Wednesday at 8.30 p.m. on RTL 4. You can look back at Videoland.

Rob gets in The Perfect Picture While Traveling: The Audience Award however, one last chance to show that he is the best photographer of this season. You can see how he does it in the video below.