Hajarah Nalwadda: Ugandan Documentary & Hard News Photographer Capturing Emotion, Identity, and Truth | 54Ruum Spotlight

Hajarah Nalwadda is a Ugandan freelance photographer and stringer for news agencies, based in Kampala. She holds a BA in Industrial Fine Arts (majoring in Photography) from Makerere University. Her practice extends to working with NGOs and private companies on impactful documentary projects.

Her work has been widely recognised, including winning the Uganda Press Photo Award (Photographer of the Year 2024), the Environment Day Photography Awards, and placing as 2nd runner-up in the Uganda Experts Photography Awards. She has also been repeatedly shortlisted for the Rugby Photographer of the Year with KEITH POWSE (UK) in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

When she's not behind the lens, you can find her playing sports, exploring new places, or indulging in her favourite pastime: binge-watching behind-the-scenes film content.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

I would describe myself as quietly observant and calm, yet highly collaborative in professional settings. When I hold my camera, I instantly fall in love; I like to say photography is my 'love affair' because I see the world differently—with an exceptional eye for detail. Composition, colour, lighting, and texture form the core of my visual language, enabling me to tell compelling stories that shed light on fundamental issues.

How did you first get into photography?

My visual journey started early. Growing up, my parents bought me toy cameras (tiny slideshow cameras) to play with, and I also loved drawing cartoons. This early foundation in visual media led me to pursue a degree in Industrial Fine Art, majoring in photography, at university. Today, photography is more than just a career for me—it remains a cherished hobby.

What type(s) of photography do you specialise in, and why did you choose this niche? How has your style evolved over time?

My primary focus is documentary and hard news photography. I love to form profound connections with people and capture moments that convey raw emotion and truth. Through my lens, I distill the essence of human experience, thriving on the challenges, travels, and narratives that unfold behind each frame.

My practice has also evolved around themes of memory. I've come to realise documentary photography is not point-and-shoot; it is a nuanced blend of composition, colour, lighting, and texture. This understanding has refined my visual language, allowing me to convey emotions and truths with greater depth and sensitivity no matter how complex.

Can you share the underlying themes or ideas that drive your photography? How do you use your images to connect with others?

At the heart of my photography lie themes of identity, emotion, and human connection. I'm captivated by stories that reveal the complexities of our existence, heritage, and modes of self-expression.

Through my lens, I strive to uncover the beauty in the mundane, whether in the intimacy of documentary moments or the intensity of hard news. Lighting and colour are essential in my storytelling arsenal; they allow me to convey mood, memory, and meaning without relying on words.

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

Several moments resonate deeply, but the publication of my work by a renowned photography news agency I've long admired stands out. During my first assignment with them, one of my photos was featured among the top 10 global news images of the week.

Another career-defining moment came when The New York Times featured my picture on the front page—a true dream come true. I still cherish the framed hard copy as a keepsake.

A recent highlight was winning the Uganda Press Photo Award (Photographer of the Year 2024).

These milestones validated my growth from capturing wildlife and landscapes to documenting meaningful human stories. They reinforced my passion and motivated me to continue pushing boundaries.

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

One of the most significant challenges I faced was covering the aftermath of the ADF rebels' attack on Mpondwe-Lhubiriha Senior Secondary School in Kasese District. Witnessing the devastating scene—where 38 students and five community members lost their lives—was profoundly traumatising for a photographer; I had to balance capturing the reality of the scene with utmost sensitivity.

Despite the trauma, the experience ultimately strengthened me, and some of those photos earned me the Uganda Press Photo Awards 2024. I learned that adversity often adds depth to our experiences and pushes us to grow. Some of my most impactful work comes from stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing the unknown.

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

While I'm already thrilled to be working with my dream agency, I'd jump at the chance to collaborate with Tommy Trenchard. His captivating documentation of everyday African life resonates deeply with me, reminding me that storytelling can seamlessly blend the personal with the universal and reveal the immense beauty in truth.

I am also keen to collaborate with camera brands I admire, such as @fujifilmme and @canoncnafrica, as an ambassador. This would be an incredible opportunity to merge my artistic vision with innovative tools, unlocking new creative possibilities and pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

I'm really impressed with 54Ruum. Discovering the platform has given me access to a wealth of work by talented African photographers. Its potential is vast, particularly in creating opportunities for emerging creatives to share their work with a wider, global audience.

How's the photography and art space in your country? How has it evolved in recent years?

The photography and art scene in Uganda has undergone significant growth. From being an under-appreciated field, photography has blossomed into a thriving industry where creatives can build successful careers.

Art, in general, is gaining recognition as a powerful means of self-expression, documentation, and the preservation of our history and daily life. It's exciting to see photography take its rightful place as a respected medium.

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

My advice to new photographers is to slow down and observe before snapping. Great photography isn't about the gear—it's about your vision and perspective, which give an image meaning. Practise consistently to hone your skills, and focus on developing your eye for composition. The best photos come from mastering the craft, not just the camera.