My story
"To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment"
Ralph Waldo Emerson
From my early years in South Africa, I harbored a passion for photography, ignited when my parents gifted me a Kodak Instamatic at the tender age of 12. Prior to that, I'd borrow my aunt's camera, orchestrating makeshift photoshoots with my younger sister and her friend as my eager subjects. Since those humble beginnings, photography has remained a steadfast joy in my life. I've traversed through different camera models, each click of the shutter adding to my self-taught education in this art form.
My goal in photography is to craft images that narrate tales, ones that stand the test of time. I believe a photograph should resonate not just in the moment of its capture, but for years to come, possessing a timeless quality that speaks across generations. While portrait photography holds a special place in my heart, I'm equally drawn to the raw authenticity of street scenes and the tender moments shared between couples, their intertwined hands a testament to love's enduring allure.
Among the milestones in my photographic journey, a standout memory is my inaugural industrial photoshoot for Lucoma, an engineering firm based in Switzerland. It was an immersive experience that broadened my perspective on the creative process inherent in photography, leaving an indelible mark on my approach to the craft.
We find ourselves in an era blessed with the wonders of digital photography, where experimentation is encouraged and moments are effortlessly frozen in time. While it may seem that every subject has been captured through the lens, I find solace in the fact that each photograph offers a unique perspective, a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of our world and its inhabitants.
In my work, I'm captivated by the interplay of color, contrast, lines, and texture, elements that imbue my images with depth and emotion. My fascination with color extends beyond its visual appeal to its profound role in non-verbal communication, enriching the narrative woven through each photograph.
Though born in South Africa and having spent many years in England, I now proudly call Vienna, Austria, my home. Here, amidst the breathtaking architecture and rich traditions, I find inspiration at every turn. Whether savoring a slice of Apfelstrudel or immersing myself in the timeless charm of Vienna's coffee houses, I cherish the cultural tapestry that surrounds me, infusing my photography with a sense of place and belonging.
I am inviting you to read more about the stories of my pictures in my Journal.
He Touched My Soul Long Before I Knew What His Hands Felt Like.
Nikki Rowe