Mzwandile Mpaka, street photographer based in Johanessburg, South Africa

Mzwandile Mpaka, 29 (b. 1995, Soweto) is a Johannesburg-based documentary photographer whose career began in 2016 while studying at Boston Media House. He later completed a Film and Television Production Certificate through Umuzi and March Media, laying the foundation for a visual approach rooted in storytelling and everyday life. Between 2018 and 2021, Mzwandile refined his craft through collaborative work in Johannesburg and Cape Town, developing a distinctive style centred on analogue photography.

His ability to capture raw, intimate moments led to his debut at the 2023 Turbine Art Fair with Morning Shadows a project shot in Cape Town that explores early morning routines and the pursuit of dreams. In 2024, he participated in the RMB Talent Unlocked programme, where he continued to expand his documentary practice and build a professional presence in the contemporary art space.

His work often highlights overlooked urban narratives, offering a quiet yet powerful reflection on human experience. Mzwandile is currently based in Johannesburg, where he continues to develop personal projects with a long-term vision of engaging with global communities through photography.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

I am a self-reserved person, and I observe a lot. I say I'm an introvert, but my friends say I'm the total opposite.

How did you first become interested in photography?

My big sister once told me about photography back in high school; I ignored her - until a few years later, when I enrolled at Boston Media House, I got an in-depth of photography, and I instantly fell in love with it

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

Street Documentary and Portraits Photography - I chose it because I am always in the street, and I enjoy playing around with natural lighting, conveying my stories by using natural shadows and highlights. Over time, by surrounding myself with artists who have more experience than me, they'd advise me on which route to take.

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

Essentially, to capture the everyday activities of our lives, we must capture the journey from struggle to success and the importance of capturing scenes of where we come from, reminding us not to forget our background.

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

Recently, I have been part of the RMB Latitude Art Fair.

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

The struggle of having your equipment and also making a living through photography. I've overcome it by focusing on other hobbies that help me stay sane so I don't lose inspiration to continue creating photographs.

If you could collaborate with anyone or work on any project in the world, who would it be and why?

I would collaborate with Andrew Tshabangu and travel to Africa to document it for its authenticity. This is why I would work with Andrew because he is a brave documentary photographer and fearless.