This archive report was first published on 5 July 2019.
Sebastian Wanzalla is a photographer who has made a name for himself in the industry. In this interview, he shares his story and offers valuable insights on what it takes to succeed in photography.
Wanzalla's journey into photography began when he picked up a camera and took a few shots. He was hooked and vowed to improve his skills. His first camera was a Nikon D100, which he describes as 'very slow' but loved nonetheless.
When asked about the importance of education in photography, Wanzalla emphasizes the value of learning art and design principles. He believes that these principles are essential in photography and that attending school can help enhance one's talent and maximize it.
Wanzalla's inspiration comes from the world around him. He travels frequently and gets bored easily, which he attributes to his passion for photography. He admires local photographers such as Osborne Macharia and Kelechi Amadi-Obi from Nigeria, and internationally, he looks up to Joey L.
On the topic of female photographers, Wanzalla notes that the field has traditionally been male-dominated but is gradually changing. He believes that women can establish themselves in niche markets such as baby bump shoots, fashion, and wedding photography.
When it comes to nurturing budding photographers, Wanzalla emphasizes the importance of sharing one's experiences. He has accepted invitations to mentorship workshops and has received overwhelming feedback, realizing that he can change someone's life by sharing his story.
