Anyone who has
met Simphiwe Mkhwanazi has not been able to resist his infectious warmth and
passionate spirit – both of which he brings in volumes to his work as a
photographer. Having been one of the photographers involved in the Project last
year, Simphiwe rejoins the crew this year with even more experience behind him.
Currently in his final year studying towards a Bcompt Degree in Accounting Science,
this ‘rural boy’ – as he refers to himself – has a keen eye for fashion which
translates into magnetic images. Working with Simphiwe is as much an enjoyable
experience as it is a learning one as he always improving and honing his skills
behind the camera, with his shooting and editing. It’s no wonder that his work
is always on point and on trend.
LFP: What do you think is the coolest thing about Simphiwe?
Simphiwe: I'm always myself; just a really happy guy who’s always laughing
and kidding around. I'm really the same person every day. I am a bit weird but
I’m worth getting to know, I think. Haha! Actually there are many cool things
about me but I won’t blow my own horn! Haha!
LFP: Having been one of #ProjectScouted’s photographers last year, what
do you love the most about the Project?
Simphiwe: I really love the interaction with likeminded people; I mean we are
all similar in the fact that we love art. Although our sense of art may be
different, it's great to learn new techniques and share your views and passions
with others. I also feel #ProjectScouted has done a great deal for promoting
individuality while teaching the girls and even everyone involved to be a team
player. And that’s a really valuable lesson to learn in your working life.
LFP: What were some of the best moments during the Project last year for
you?
Simphiwe: Where could I even begin? I enjoyed all the shoots I attended but I
especially loved being behind the camera and taking pictures when I could. It's
impossible to pinpoint any actual moments; I just had some really boss times.
LFP: How did you discover your passion for photography?
Simphiwe: Well, I've always been really interested in fashion and beauty. I
had always loved taking pictures; I remember my dad had an old film camera many,
many years ago. When he was away at work I'd borrow it (without asking) and
play around with it. Then at school we would take pictures of one another with
our cellphones. Eventually, I managed to save up and bought my first camera in
2013 and started taking pictures of my friends on campus and I guess things
escalated very quickly. I’m loving the direction my photography is taking!
LFP: What do you love most about photographing people?
Simphiwe: I really enjoy photographing humans, because you get to interact
with them in a whole different world. It's all about creating art and going
through the emotions for those few minutes but then the image lives a lifetime.
I mean, you can literally see a person in a different view and that, my
friends, is pretty awesome.
LFP: What is beauty to you?
Simphiwe: To me, beauty is art; something that is pleasing to the eye. I find
beauty in many things and in some things that other people may not even
consider. I believe beauty is not definite as some things require more
attention than others. I think that we see things the way we are and if we can
nurture beauty within us, we can see beauty everywhere.
LFP: What are some of the images you’ve shot that you are most proud of?
Simphiwe: It's really difficult to say which series of images I am proud of
the most, because I always put in 100% effort on set and I always try to get
great images. And if I release the images, I am proud of them. Therefore all
the images you'd find on my Facebook page (www.facebook.com/simphiwekevinphotography),
I am extremely proud of. Every image has a different message and a different
memory behind it.
LFP: Any tips for the #ProjectScouted girls?
Simphiwe: Take a lot of selfies! Feel the emotions with each selfie. Also
check out online magazines or even Tumblr and check out posing guides on the Net.
The Project is a serious platform for opportunity and being prepared will
definitely help.
LFP: Are you willing to share any info about the phase you are shooting
in the Project?
Simphiwe: I think surprises are the best!
Simphiwe
will be one of the many photographers shooting the Shoelaced Clothing fashion
show happening on Saturday at 17:00 at Factory Café. The girls need to
be prepared to be judged on any of the images taken on the night, meaning that
they will have to be in to win it. Don’t hesitate to say “hi” to Simphiwe at
the show to see why he manages to bring out the best emotions in people.
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