Mpho Austin Malema / Entrepreneur, Photographer & Founder of RTC Studios and Pixel Kollective
You’re a well-known photographer in South Africa, how has the journey been so far?
I have been in the industry for just over 10 years as a photographer and the journey has been an interesting one with many ups and downs. It is not as easy as it seems. Right now people only see your glory years and want the same thing but they don’t know of the failures and trials you face before getting to a point where your work speaks for itself.
What is RTC Studios and what services are offered?
RTC stands for Ronewa Tshiamo Cai. We are a visual creative hub which currently offers photography and videography solutions.
What’s your opinion on the current young South African photographer’s career span?
I think as a young photographer in South Africa your career can be short lived depending on how serious you take your craft and using it to build a career. The big thing is adapting to different forms of photography, as the industry in South Africa is not big enough for one to make a living by just one form of photography. Most times, you have to adapt to new skills to grow. Young photographers need to stay strong and sharp mentally, as failures and rejection can be taxing.
Explain your type of photography…
I shoot lifestyle photography.
How are you staying busy during this pandemic?
At the beginning of this pandemic I was taking part in challenges by other photographers and created one myself, I also started watching tutorials on other forms of photography I am interested in, I usually do this to keep my mind fresh and to develop my skill set. In the past couple of weeks, we had had some projects done which should be coming out soon.
Your proudest career moment?
There are so many of these moments, one being making it onto the Forbes 30 Under 30 list of 2019. I think I realized that photography was more than just photos, but the bigger picture being the business.
One word to describe your industry would be…
Trying.
How’s the future looking?
The future of the industry looks great as there are many opportunities for young people to come in and grow. The future belongs to those who go after it.
Inspire the kids with some closing words of wisdom…
As Confucius once wrote: “Wherever you go, go with all your heart”.
Follow Austin Malema!
Instagram: @aust_malema
Twitter: @AustinMalema
Facebook: @AustMalema
-Bridgette Makhela
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