Rosebank photographer talks about how a forgotten camera sparked a career
SJ Photos' Sinethemba Mnguni, a photographer based in Rosebank, shares his journey of capturing memories through a lens.
From the humble streets of Osizweni to the bustling heart of Rosebank, Sinethemba Mnguni, also known as ‘Sjukha’ through his photography brand SJ Photos, is a shining example of how passion and dedication can turn a simple hobby into a flourishing career.
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It all began with a film camera that once lay forgotten in his father’s drawer. “I saw it as a missed opportunity, so I picked it up and started earning some pocket money by capturing photos of my classmates during school events,” Mnguni recalled. This spontaneous move sparked what would become a lifelong passion. “People started trusting me to capture their special moments. It felt incredible to be given that responsibility at such a young age.”
While many might expect a career in engineering to take full precedence, Mnguni’s heart always belonged to photography. “Although I studied electrical and electronics engineering, photography offered me much more creative freedom. It was the perfect outlet to express myself.” His technical background gave him a unique edge in his photography journey, helping him understand the mechanics of lighting, lenses, and composition from a scientific perspective. “The fundamentals of engineering, like the Fibonacci sequence, also helped me enhance the visual appeal of my photos.”
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SJ Photos has since become a go-to for everything from corporate headshots to wedding shoots. With his distinct approach to each project, Mnguni ensures that his work is as personal as it is professional. “For me, light is everything in a photograph. It’s the essence that shapes each image and brings it to life. That’s why our slogan is ‘Photo means light.’”
Despite his growing success, Mnguni remains grounded and committed to delivering the best to his clients. “I’ve never missed a shoot, and I always over-deliver on my services. That’s how I build trust,” he said with pride. One of his most memorable experiences was a wedding he photographed in the rural town of Ndwedwe in KZN. “The community welcomed me like family, and capturing their raw emotion and joy was truly unforgettable.”
Looking ahead, Mnguni has big dreams for SJ Photos. “In five years, I hope to build a team that will allow me to focus on other creative ventures, like hosting my first art exhibition.”
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