After nearly two decades behind the camera, BornakingPhotography has established itself as one of Botswana’s respected visual studios, steadily growing its reputation and capabilities while adapting to the changing creative industry.
Founded by photographer Tafadzwa Nazare, the studio has evolved from a small photography outfit into a multimedia production house operating across diplomatic, corporate, cultural and private spaces locally and across the region.
Reflecting on the 18-year journey, Nazare attributes Bornaking Photography’s growth to hard work, continuous learning and an unwavering commitment to perfection.
“Consistency and learning from other industry players have played a big role in our growth. I have always believed in pushing myself to deliver the best possible work,” he said.
Bornaking Photography first established its name within Botswana’s entertainment industry, becoming a go-to studio for artists seeking strong promotional images. During its early years, the studio worked with popular performers including Vee Mampeezy, Brando and Robbie Rob.
Through its work with musicians and entertainers, the studio gained visibility and credibility, helping shape the visual identity of many artists at a time when professional photography was becoming increasingly important in the entertainment industry.
The quality and consistency of Bornaking’s work soon attracted interest from the corporate sector, with companies commissioning the studio for photography and videography assignments at corporate events, conferences and branding projects.
Over the years, the studio has also collaborated with several creatives and content platforms in the lifestyle and media space, including fashion personalities Kagiso De Klerk, Jessy Molefe and Natasha Proctor. It also contributed visual production work to platforms such as The 20th Avenue Podcast.
The exposure later opened doors within diplomatic circles, where the studio has undertaken various assignments over the years.
Today, Bornaking Photography operates across a broad range of projects, including diplomatic engagements, corporate functions, pageantry, exhibitions and private bookings. The studio has also significantly expanded its services beyond still photography into multimedia production.
A major milestone came recently when the studio was commissioned to work on a documentary that aired on CNBC Africa. The project marked another step in Bornaking’s evolution as it continues to expand its footprint in documentary storytelling and video production.
Nazare said the shift into multimedia work reflects the changing nature of the creative industry, where visual storytelling increasingly spans multiple platforms and formats.
Looking back on the past 18 years, he said Botswana’s photography industry has matured considerably and continues to produce talented creatives capable of competing regionally.
However, he cautioned that photographers must remain adaptable, particularly in an era where technology and artificial intelligence are transforming creative production.
He encouraged young photographers to invest time in understanding camera operations, lighting techniques and editing software to remain competitive.
Over the years, Bornaking Photography has also played a mentorship role in the industry, training and guiding several photographers and videographers who have since built successful careers of their own.
For Nazare, seeing others grow within the industry is just as rewarding as building his own brand.
As Bornaking Photography continues its journey, the studio remains committed to innovation, storytelling and nurturing the next generation of visual creatives while maintaining the standards that have defined its work for nearly two decades.
