TAKE TEN: Nonzuzo Gxekwa
While celebrating ten years of the X Mount system, Fujifilm South Africa is featuring the work of local photographers shooting with Fujifilm. Nonzuzo Gxekwa is one of the country’s foremost talents exploring the possibilities of photography. We caught up with her in the Netherlands, where she’s currently part of a residency programme at the Jan van Eyck Academie.
Why do you love photography?
Photography is an art medium where mistakes can produce beautiful images and the possibilities are endless. I also find that it lends itself to writing stories that are open to interpretation depending on the person experiencing/seeing the photograph.
What made you switch to Fujifilm and when did this happen?
About three years ago, Dillion Phiri of creative nestlings generously allowed me to use his X-T3 for a week and I fell in love with it, especially how lightweight and discreet it was on the streets. As a self-taught photographer, I loved how easy it was to manoeuvre, while the film simulations that come with the camera provides an almost nostalgic film feel of an analogue camera.
What made you switch to Fujifilm and when did this happen?
About three years ago, Dillion Phiri of creative nestlings generously allowed me to use his X-T3 for a week and I fell in love with it, especially how lightweight and discreet it was on the streets. As a self-taught photographer, I loved how easy it was to manoeuvre, while the film simulations that come with the camera provides an almost nostalgic film feel of an analogue camera.
The colours of the images straight out of camera are great, plus the video quality is not compromised even though the camera is small
Which Fujifilm camera do you use?
The Fujifilm X100F.
What do you love most about the camera?
I find Image quality is excellent, plus its portability and discreetness – people seem comfortable when I take pictures of them with this camera. The Wi-Fi option allows for easy sharing and access, plus the grain effect adds an interesting film feel.
Tell us a bit more about your photography and what you would like to achieve through it?
My photography is about celebrating the lives of ordinary people; it is about love, beauty, movement; it is political.
I’m hoping to contribute to the new voices that are breaking down the stereotypes, especially of black lives, and creating new narratives which add to the archive of our stories through photography.
Find more of Nonzuzo’s work here:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/nonzuzogxekwa/
Website: www.artsy.net/artist/nonzuzo-gxekwa
