Photography has always played a major role in telling stories through visuals & images, attracting the naked eye to an interesting dialogue where anything goes. With no restrictions or boundaries, it’s the photographers & artists that carry out the difficult tasks of visually portraying ideas, exposing social issues or exploiting interesting characteristics through their works. The artists behind the camera compliment the artists in front of the camera (in other words, the responsibility in making one look good). HYPE had a Q&A with Mellow Photography, who specialise in Photography, Videography & Graphics. Established through the collabrative efforts of Thabiso Ngcobo & Lethabo Machele, who have worked with well-known individuals such as Scoop Makhatini, Notshi, Ginger Trill, Cassper Nyovest and many more. This company is set on bringing about a revolution in the world of photography.
How did Mellow Photography come about?
We started off just taking pictures for fun wherever we went and an extra way to making money. Later we created a blog where we posted those pictures. People loved our photos and our love for photography grew. We then decided to take it seriously & build a proper photography brand.
What first drew you guys to photography and how did you discover it?
The different styles there were in photography. We wanted to be able to explore them and create long lasting memories & art.
What does ‘photography’ mean to you?
We believe it is a way to express ourselves, we’re not so much concerned with the technical side of photography, it’s more about creating art that creates a deeper meaning.
How would you describe your photographic style?
It is a mixture of street photography & fashion photography. We also do a bit of abstract photography as well.
What do you think makes a memorable photograph?
Capturing the unexpected.
What do you want your viewers to take away from your work?
We want them to acknowledge the quality of the work and we want our pictures to tell some sort of story to the viewer.
What do you think are some of the clichés in photography that you steer away from yourself?
You don’t need to spend a lot of time on your picture to make it perfect.
What were the difficulties you encountered first starting street photography?
We never used to have extra equipment in the beginning. That was a challenge we faced on our part. As time went on we managed to acquire enough equipment to improve the quality of our work.
When you are out shooting…how much of it is instinctual versus planned?
Most of our work is pre-planned depending on the amount of time we are given.
What are some tips you would give to yourself if you started photography all over again?
Never stop working! There is always someone out there working twice as hard! Its all about progress and bettering your skills.
Any projects Mellow Photography is currently working on?
We are currently working on a few video’s that will be released soon so you can keep a lookout for that!
One word that best describes Mellow Photography?
Godly
@MELLOW_PTY
@Thabiiiso
@LethaboLucho
Written By: Rudzani “@Roo_AT” Netshiheni