Andile Bhala, documentary artist based in Johannesburg, South Africa

Andile Bhala (born in Soweto, South Africa), Fujifilm Ambassador, lives and works in Johannesburg. Andile Bhala is a documentary photographer and commercial photographer. His work focuses on his upbringing and also reflects on various communities within contemporary South Africa.

“A deep passion drives me to tell real stories with all their layered complexities.”

Bhala's uBUDODA series was exhibited as part of his incubator program at the Market Photo Workshop in 2018. In uBUDODA, Bhala deliberately chose not to focus on the sensational but rather on masculinity in its own right. It was also exhibited at Addis Foto Fest in 2018.

How did you first become interested in photography?

At heart, I'm a filmmaker, but photography found me while I was walking through the streets of Johannesburg, kicking stones, greeting people in Soweto, and asking if I could make their picture. My hope was always to develop those images and return them, giving something back.

"It was never just about taking, there was always the intention to give something back."

My work is deeply inspired by those who came before me and by the new generation of photographers who continue to tell powerful stories. Growing up, I was moved by the images that hung in township homes in Soweto. That sparked something in me, a dream that, one day, every household in Soweto would have an Andile Bhala photograph, much like how a Mpho Le mphonyana image held meaning in so many homes.

"I wanted to see my work hanging in homes like the ones I grew up in."

What type(s) of photography do you specialise in, and why did you choose this niche?

My photography journey began with vernacular and street documentary photography, capturing everyday life as it unfolded around me. Over time, it evolved into social documentary work, focusing on issues of social injustice and the narratives that often go unheard.

In the meantime, I undertake commercial photography to fund my projects, which are deeply personal explorations of my own life and the lives of those around me.

"Commercial work pays the bills, but personal work feeds my soul."

Every image I create is rooted in storytelling, a reflection of the world as I see and experience it.

Can you share the underlying themes or ideas that drive your photography?

People love being photographed, but more importantly, they love being photographed with respect. For me, the connection comes first; I always try to click with people before I even click the shutter.

"I don't start with the camera. I start with the person."

These are real stories with genuine depth, and I approach them with sensitivity and care. A camera and an image are powerful conversation starters, opening doors to friendships, family, opportunities, and even healing.

Photography is my way of healing myself, and I hope that through my work, others can find something meaningful, whether it's healing, understanding, or simply learning from the stories being told.

What is one achievement or moment in your photography career that you're most proud of?

The actual achievement in my photography isn't just in the images I create, but in the act of seeing - seeing. The opportunity to witness, photograph, and receive support from the people I document remains one of my greatest honours.

"There's a sacredness in being allowed to see someone's truth, and then share it."

Beyond that, the continuous critique of my work is a beautiful achievement in itself. It means the job is alive, sparking thought, conversation, and reflection. Growth comes from being questioned, from being challenged, and that, to me, is the essence of artistry.

Working on campaigns and witnessing my work travel from Soweto to every corner of the world has been one of my most outstanding achievements. But beyond that, nothing compares to the feeling of stepping into a room and hearing a student say that I was the reason they picked up a camera.

Sharing my work alongside the very artists I grew up admiring is a dream come true, proof that passion, persistence, and storytelling can transcend borders. And nothing means more than hearing people from my neighbourhood say, "Keep making pictures, keep telling stories."

That, for me, is the greatest achievement of all."

What's the biggest challenge you've faced as a photographer, and how did you overcome it?

Photographing myself has been a journey of rediscovery. The act of positioning a camera toward myself feels different, more intimate, more revealing. It comes with its challenges, yet it has taught me a great deal about presence, vulnerability, and the weight of being on the other side of the lens.

"Looking into the lens is easy. Looking into yourself is the real challenge."

In learning to frame myself, I've come to understand, even more deeply, what it means to frame others. This process has reshaped how I see, how I connect, and how I honour the stories I capture.

If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be and why?

Anyone keen. I don't have a list. "I'm open. Energy matters more than titles."

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

54Ruum is a robust platform that shines a spotlight on creatives, providing a space where storytelling is valued and preserved. It's inspiring to collaborate within a space that not only nurtures artistic expression but also prioritises the protection of stories and the care of our shared archives.

"We're not just sharing work here. We're preserving history."

Being part of this community is a poignant reminder of the importance of capturing, honouring, and safeguarding our narratives for future generations.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting their photography journey, what would it be?

Photography is about ideas, not perfection. Don't focus on getting it 'right', just make a picture. Keep lifting that camera, and frame by frame, you'll find your voice.

"Perfection is a myth. Perspective is everything."

Let those who came before you inspire and guide you, but never let them lead your story. Your perspective is your own, and that's what makes your work unique. And most importantly, take the time to learn the history of photography; it will give you the context and perspective to push your vision forward.