Tinashe Jakarasi, portrait and event photographer based in Zimbabwe

How did you first get into photography?

I first got into photography in 2020 as a way to express myself creatively during a challenging time. It started with a fascination for how light and perspective could transform ordinary scenes into compelling stories. The turning point was when I captured a candid moment at a family gathering, it sparked a deep passion for freezing emotions and telling stories through images.

I’ve also drawn immense inspiration from the work of Derrick Manyika and Tamary Kudita, whose artistry and exploration of culture and identity continually motivate me to push boundaries in my own craft.

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

I specialize in conceptual and portrait photography, with a focus on themes like identity, emotions, and the impact of the environment on individuals. I chose this niche because I’m deeply fascinated by how photography can capture both the internal and external aspects of a person’s experience, creating a powerful narrative.

Over time, my style has evolved from simple portraits to more layered, thought-provoking compositions that tell deeper stories. I’ve grown to incorporate more environmental elements into my work, reflecting the connection between people and their surroundings. My style is constantly evolving as I explore new ways to merge storytelling and visual art.

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

The underlying themes that drive my photography revolve around identity, mental health, and the intricate relationship between people and their environments. I aim to capture the emotional depth of human experiences and how external influences shape us.

Through my images, I strive to create a sense of connection, inviting viewers to reflect on their own lives and experiences. Whether through portraiture or conceptual shots, I want my work to evoke empathy, spark conversation, and remind people of the shared human journey. My goal is to create art that resonates on a deeper level, fostering understanding and emotional connection.

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

The moment I’m most proud of in my photography career is my debut exhibition, Pieces, at Pikicha Gallery in 2023. It was a personal milestone that not only marked the culmination of my growth as an artist but also allowed me to share my work with a broader audience.

The exhibition was a powerful way to express my passion for conceptual storytelling and mental health awareness, and seeing my work resonate with viewers was incredibly fulfilling. It felt like a turning point in my journey as a photographer, affirming my place in the art world.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a photographer, and how did you overcome it? What did you learn from that experience?

“The biggest challenge I faced as a photographer was finding my unique voice and style in a saturated field.” Early on, I struggled with feeling like my work didn’t stand out or truly reflect my vision."

Overcoming this challenge involved a lot of self-reflection and pushing myself to experiment beyond traditional photography. I started focusing more on conceptual themes that were deeply personal to me, like identity and mental health, which gave my work more meaning and depth.

“I learned the importance of staying true to my vision and embracing vulnerability in my art. It’s the authenticity that truly connects with others.”

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

If I could collaborate with anyone, it would definitely be Tamary Kudita. Her ability to capture the duality of identity, culture, and human emotion through photography resonates deeply with me. I admire how her work challenges perceptions and tells stories with such raw authenticity.

A collaboration with her would be an incredible opportunity to explore new creative boundaries, which are central to my work. I believe our combined approaches could produce thought-provoking, powerful imagery that inspires deeper reflection and connection.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

I think the 54Ruum community is a fantastic platform for photographers to connect, share, and grow together. It’s a space where creativity thrives, and the diversity of perspectives from different photographers makes it a rich environment for learning and inspiration.

I appreciate the supportive atmosphere where members can showcase their work, receive constructive feedback, and collaborate on projects. It feels like a true creative hub, and being part of such a community is motivating and helps push me to continue evolving as an artist.

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

My advice would be to stay curious and experiment without fear of failure. In the beginning, it’s easy to feel pressure to have everything “perfect,” but the real growth happens when you embrace trial and error.

Explore different styles, techniques, and themes until you find what truly speaks to you. Most importantly, trust your unique perspective, your voice is what will make your work stand out. Keep pushing boundaries, stay patient with your process, and never stop learning.