Story by Siliaziso Dlodlo
WHILE smartphones have made photography more accessible than ever, traditional photography continues to hold its appeal, with many people still embracing the art of professionally captured and printed images.
In an era where almost every moment can be captured instantly on a mobile phone, the click of a professional camera still carries a unique charm.
In Bulawayo, residents continue to support professional photographers, with many flocking to the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Statue, where photographers transform ordinary moments into timeless keepsakes.
Despite the rise of digital gadgets, hundreds still seek the services of photographers who can be seen from a distance carrying their cameras, preserving memories in a way many believe digital images cannot replicate.
One resident said the location offers an affordable and beautiful setting for capturing special moments.
“I like coming here for my photos because there is natural sunlight and the pictures come out beautifully. It is cheaper than indoor shoots, and there is a car here that I cannot afford elsewhere, but here it only costs a dollar,” said the resident.
Another said the quality of the photographs keeps bringing people back.
“I discovered that there are photographers here and their photos are nice. I wish they continue doing this so that we keep coming here in numbers,” she said.
For some, professionally printed photographs provide a lasting legacy that can be passed down through generations.
“What I enjoy here is that I can keep the picture. I still have my grandparents’ photographs. I lost the photos I took using my phone last year, but these ones my children and grandchildren will have,” said another resident.
Photographers say their work goes beyond taking pictures, as they also preserve history, promote local heritage and provide livelihoods for many families.
At the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Statue, photographers say the location carries historical significance, allowing them to celebrate the legacy of Zimbabwe’s liberation icon while serving their clients.
“It has been a while since I started being a photographer. We shoot at the Mqabuko Nkomo Statue because we want the world to know our father, Mqabuko Nyongolo. People use their phones, but with a camera there is a big difference,” said one photographer.
Veteran photographers say the profession has evolved over the years, but the demand for quality images remains strong.
“I have been a photographer for 22 years. Photography has sustained me since I finished school. People still support us even in the era of iPhones because what comes from the camera is clean. Photography requires someone to take time and learn aperture, shutter speed, ISO and many other skills,” said a veteran photographer.
As technology continues to advance, traditional photography remains a cherished art form, proving that old-fashioned methods still have a place in a digital world.
