Tsion Molla, street photographer based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

How did you first get into photography?

I became interested in photography during the COVID-19 pandemic, when I had nothing to do while staying at home. In our house, there's an upstairs with a little window, and I spent much time there watching the sunset through that window. Over time, I developed an interest in watching the sunset and capturing those moments, even taking some self-portraits. That was how I became more passionate about photography and started teaching myself how to improve and learn more about it.

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

I always strive to capture the emotion and expression of my subjects, primarily those I encounter on the street or in candid portraits. At most, I'm fascinated by outdoor photography, self-portraits and interested in complementary colour schemes.

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

The underlying themes in my photography revolve around capturing the beauty of everyday life and the emotions that come with it. I strive to connect with others through my images by focusing on candid moments that tell a story. I believe that every photograph has the potential to evoke feelings and provoke thoughts, whether it's the warmth of a sunset or the raw emotions of a stranger on the street. By sharing these moments, I hope to create a sense of connection and appreciation for the world around us.

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

One moment that stands out in my photography journey is when I first shared my work on social media and received positive feedback from friends and strangers alike. It was incredibly validating to see that my passion resonated with others. Additionally, I recently participated in a virtual group exhibition on women's empowerment, which allowed me to share my perspective on strong women in my country with a broader audience. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of storytelling through photography.

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

The biggest challenge I've faced as a photographer was overcoming self-doubt, especially in the early stages of my journey. There were times when I felt that my work wasn't good enough or that I wasn't progressing quickly enough. To overcome this, I started setting small, achievable goals for myself and sought feedback from fellow photographers. This process taught me the importance of patience and persistence, as well as the value of community support in fostering growth.

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

If I could collaborate with anyone, it would be a photographer like Steve McCurry, known for his incredible portrait work and ability to capture human emotion. Working alongside him would not only be an honour but also an opportunity to learn from his unique perspective on storytelling through imagery.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

54Ruum community is a fantastic platform for photographers to showcase their work and connect with like-minded individuals. “54Ruum fosters a sense of belonging and encourages creativity among its members.” The ability to share experiences, techniques, and feedback within such a supportive environment can be incredibly beneficial for both emerging and established photographers.

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

My one piece of advice for someone just starting their photography journey would be to embrace experimentation and not be afraid to make mistakes. Every shot you take is an opportunity to learn, so take your camera everywhere and capture what inspires you.