Mysterious beach photo sparks alien intrigue online
Internet users used the terms "Foreigners," "Unknown, mysterious sea monsters," "Aliens," "Spiders," and "Extraterrestrials" to describe what Jan Vorster photographed on a beach in South Africa. No one realised what it really was.
Although the photo was taken three years ago, it is still shared on social media and continues to make an equally significant impression.
Surprising effect in the photo
Jan Vorster took a photo that caused a considerable stir on social media. It was captured at sunrise in Stilbaai, South Africa. The angle and lighting make the subject appear entirely different. Internet users thought they were witnessing sea creatures or aliens approaching the water.
Nothing could be further from the truth. In reality, the photos captured... wilted aloe leaves. The photographer shared the image to raise awareness of environmental issues.
Internet users were scared
Most people who saw the images were alarmed. Some reacted angrily and accused the photographer of intentionally misleading them.
"How terrifying," "I might never go to the beach again," "This picture is terrifying!" - wrote internet users. "I suppose I need to start watching out for aloes on the windowsill", "Attack of the killer aloes coming soon to theatres!" - others joked.
