Thabo Thejane, based in Thaba Nchu near Bloemfontein, holds an arts degree that he rarely uses, but credits his pure self-taught photography skills for his career. Originally drawn to theater and film acting, he discovered photography through a deep love for storytelling and art, allowing him to create unique work that evokes emotions and sets him apart as a “one of one.” His style has shifted from early portraits of intriguing people to documentary street photography, editorial fashion shoots in natural and urban settings, and sports photography, transforming mundane scenes into evocative moments.
McKinnon and Karl Shakur, Thabo adopted their bold colors, rich cinematic undertones, and natural light techniques to add depth to his portraits, lifestyle, and sports images. He favors clean, striking work suited for magazines, especially during golden-hour natural light, blending fashion editorials with a versatile mixed-media approach.
A turning point came in October 2021 when a global brand messaged him via Instagram for a campaign while he was relaxing in Johannesburg, validating his talent alongside gigs for IBL’s (Interstate Bus Lines) 50th anniversary in July 2024 and content for a top female athlete in late 2025. Starting with his first camera in 2018 and a professional gig in 2019, these moments cemented his full-time commitment.
Thabo shoots with an entry-level camera from over a decade ago, proving gear matters less than vision and skills honed in South Africa’s urban Johannesburg or rural landscapes, limitations that fuel his creativity. He edits minimally in Lightroom Classic on desktop, finalizes on VSCO mobile for color accuracy, prioritizing authenticity over heavy edits. A tough 2019 shoot with a UJ graduate in harsh midday light and auto mode taught him manual shooting via YouTube, saving his career from near-abandonment.
To ease subjects in sensitive portraits or community sessions, Thabo always asks permission with a smile, explaining the photo’s use—leading to excitement when shared online.
He’s mostly proud of documenting Thaba Nchu’s unique elements like horses, the mountain, and township icons, resonating locally with print requests, and covering rugby star OX Nche’s post-World Cup visit, which exploded online with over 1,000 reactions. Thabo ensures diversity by capturing varied moments and people ethically, viewing photography as freezing life’s split seconds for posterity.
Thabo advises aspiring South African photographers to capture what makes them happy and not wait for long, but to start immediately.
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