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Mutsawashe Mashandure

Youth Interactive Writer

He is a self-taught photographer. ‘Director Ken’ real name Kenny Thearny Makiseni has achieved great success without ever stepping foot into a school of photography. 

He captures the light and colours with his camera in a brilliant way.

He derives satisfaction from capturing the most important day in a couple’s life.

Born and bred in Seke, Chitungwiza, the 19-year-old photographer completed his elementary education at Tamuka Primary School and Seke 1 High School in Chitungwiza.

His enthusiasm for photography is contagious; he can’t resist the power of the lens. 

Director Ken said in an interview with Youth Interactive Section that he was inspired by the day-to-day activities

“It all started with a simple desire to capture the world around me. I used to take videos in our home garden and my favourite subject was flowers.

“My desire was to capture the delicate petals and vibrant colours on film, “he said.

“My passion for media started in 2019 when I used to edit pictures on my small Sony Xperia phone using an app called Picsart.”

The passion started at 10 years old continued despite his parents discouraging him from being a photographer.

“I gave up everything concerning media and focused on school until I wrote my exams.”

“In 2021, my further urged me to finish school and then focus on taking pictures afterwards. I resumed photography in 2023 after I finished my O Level.” 

He explained how he benefited from being a photographer.

“I got invited to two weddings last year at Greenfield and Waterlily Garden, and this boosted my confidence,” he added.

Makiseni said his friends are very supportive.

“My friends in the industry groomed me; I worked with my tactic photographer, squad director Spice, Royal Squad Dance Group, and Naiza Boom,” he said.

“I did some skits (comedies) as a director, writer, and editor. I also used to be an actor,” he said.

Makiseni said he never went to a media school.

 “I did not go to any photography school, but I used to follow YouTube videos that improved my work, “he said. 

The director shared his challenges he faced as a photographer.

 “I am not financially stable enough to have my own equipment to use in photography, so sometimes I hire another machine, which is too expensive,” he said.  

The talented photographer wants to push his career to a higher level

“My version is to have a bigger photographic company.

 “I wish to get sponsors to support me with equipment needed for me to flourish in the industry,” he added.