James Tamba-Martha: Sierra Leonean street and documentary photographer documenting identity and everyday life | 54Ruum Spotlight

James Tamba-Martha is a documentary photographer and multimedia producer based in Freetown, Sierra Leone. He focuses on telling everyday Sierra Leonean stories through street and documentary photography, with attention to people, culture, and daily life.

In 2024, he won the Vickie Remoe Prize for Journalism and New Media in the photography category. For James, photography is a way to document life, preserve stories, and connect with people.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

I am deeply passionate about telling Sierra Leonean stories through photography. Growing up in Kailahun, in the eastern part of Sierra Leone, some of my best moments were sitting around elders who shared old stories about our Kissi warriors, like Kai Londo. These moments have since developed my zest for photography, along with a curiosity to document other stories.

As a prize-winning documentary photographer and photojournalist for the 2024 Vickie Remoe Prize for Journalism and New Media, I believe that photography is not just an art, but life itself.

How did you first get into photography?

My passion for capturing images grew out of my early work in mainstream media. The transition into photography came from a desire to capture priceless moments and explore my country through the everyday experiences of Sierra Leoneans. 

A significant turning point in my professional journey was working with mentors such as Andrea Stultiens, a researcher from the Netherlands; Judith Prat, a seasoned Spanish photographer and filmmaker; and Vickie Remoe, a digital communications specialist who recognised my potential and invited me to join VR&C Marketing Company, where I currently work as a multimedia producer.

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

I specialise in documentary street photography. This niche allows me to explore environmental issues, document the intense city life of Freetown, and capture the ups and downs of people’s stories. My work centres on individuals, their daily rhythms, their challenges, and their unique experiences.

Over time, my style has evolved from being purely multimedia to a more refined and professional craft. I have learned to connect more deeply with my subjects, which allows me to capture more incisive and intimate details.

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

The underlying themes of my work are identity, heritage, and human impact. My goal is to capture moments that reflect individual uniqueness and allow the viewer to feel the emotion of the subject.

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

My biggest breakthrough was in 2024, when I won the Vickie Remoe Prize for Journalism and New Media in the photography category.

What's the biggest challenge you've faced as a photographer?

Well, a lot of people who see me taking photographs on the streets of Freetown assume I am making a lot of money from it. The reality is that I do this out of passion and for the love of capturing daily life through my camera, which brings me joy.

Another challenge was transitioning into a high-standard professional media environment as a multimedia producer and photographer. I realised that I had to start afresh in order to level up. One of the ways I overcame these challenges was by being honest with myself and with people on the streets, explaining that photography for me is purely out of passion not money. 

I also became open to constructive feedback and rigorous mentorship from professionals in the field who recognised my curiosity for learning. I have learned that growth requires humility and a willingness to become a student of your own craft every single day.

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

I would love to collaborate with GMB Akash, a photographer from Bangladesh who has dedicated his life to capturing people living on the edge of survival. His humanitarian approach, where he supports the people he photographs by generating funds for them, inspires me and fuels my desire to learn from him.

I would also love to collaborate with Ed Kashi, one of my favourite photojournalists and filmmakers, for whom I have immense respect. I admire his innovative approach to social issues and the way he and his wife work together to create a long-lasting impact in the creative field.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

You have a strong platform, which I believe is something many aspiring creatives hope to be part of. Many creatives shy away from posting their work due to low support and engagement. If your platform is stepping in to bridge that gap, I see it as a major boost for creatives like us.

How's the photography and art space in your country?

The photography and art space in Sierra Leone is evolving, with great opportunities ahead. With the rise of social media, many aspiring photographers and photo enthusiasts have emerged, using their art and platforms to support and preserve Sierra Leonean heritage while showcasing the country’s rich and bountiful beauty.

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

Do not put money first. Focus on learning, be open to criticism, and put in your best effort. That is how you reach the level you aspire to attain.