Mandla Phalatsi, fine art photographer and conceptual artist in South Africa

Mandla Phalatsi is a fashion and portrait photographer based in Johannesburg, Gauteng. He began his photography journey at Tshwane University of Technology. He is a photographer with a keen eye for capturing the essence of style and individuality. Blending artistic vision with technical precision, He also creates striking images that tell a story and evoke emotion. With a passion for fashion and a talent for bringing out the best in every subject, he delivers captivating photographs that resonate with elegance and personality.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

I'm a commercial photographer with a passion for capturing landscapes, architecture, and vibrant cultural moments that tell powerful visual stories. My background includes three years of study in commercial photography at Tshwane University of Technology, which helped me develop a sharp eye for detail, lighting, and composition. I love working with both natural and artificial light and exploring how different environments influence mood and storytelling.

How did you first become interested in photography?

I first got into photography during high school when I borrowed a family member's old DSLR for a school project. That single image made me realise the power of freezing a moment in time. From there, I began studying light, shadow, and composition more seriously, which eventually led me to pursue formal training at the Tshwane University of Technology. Nature, urban spaces, and the way people interact with their environment continue to inspire me every time I pick up the camera.

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

I specialise in fashion photography because it enables me to blend creativity, storytelling, and visual aesthetics into a single robust frame. I'm drawn to the energy, style, and emotion that fashion conveys—every shoot feels like building a visual narrative that expresses identity, culture, and attitude.

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

The underlying themes that drive my fashion photography are identity, confidence, and transformation. I aim to capture more than just clothing—I want to showcase the attitude, emotion, and story behind each look. Whether it's through a dramatic pose, a bold colour palette, or a fleeting expression, I try to evoke a sense of empowerment in every image.

I use my photos to connect with others by focusing on relatable energy, making the viewer feel something, whether it's strength, elegance, rebellion, or vulnerability. Through lighting, styling, and creative direction, I craft visuals that not only highlight fashion but also celebrate the individual wearing it. Ultimately, my goal is to inspire people to see themselves as art.

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

One of the proudest moments in my photography career was shooting a queer fashion editorial that was later featured in an independent magazine celebrating LGBTQ+ creatives. The project focused on self-expression and fluid identity, using bold styling, diverse models, and unconventional locations to break away from traditional fashion norms. What made it truly meaningful was hearing how the images made people feel seen and celebrated—especially those who often feel underrepresented in mainstream fashion. It wasn't just a shoot; it was a statement. Being trusted to visually tell those stories and seeing them resonate with others reminded me why I do what I do.

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

The biggest challenge I faced was learning to handle difficult lighting conditions. I overcame it by practising different techniques and studying tutorials. From this, I learned the importance of patience and adapting to any situation.

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

I would collaborate with Thabang Thamano simply because his portraits are striking, and I like how he controls light with his subjects.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

The 54Ruum community is a supportive and creative space that encourages growth, collaboration, and diverse expression. It's an excellent platform for learning, sharing, and connecting with like-minded photographers.

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

Trust your eye and keep shooting every day if you can. When you're just starting out, it's easy to get caught up in gear, presets, or comparing yourself to others. But the most important thing is to train your eye and develop your voice. Shoot what excites you, experiment without fear, and learn from your mistakes. Over time, your unique style will emerge—not from perfection but from persistence.