Young photographer Sthembiso Nxumalo, known as Sthersh from Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal, has transformed his passion for art into a thriving photography business called Ehloliwe Media. What began with a camera and a creative eye has grown into a professional venture, enabling him to invest in advanced equipment such as a drone camera.
He has also expanded his services to cover weddings, traditional ceremonies and other major events. Before becoming a photographer, Sthembiso worked as an artist, painting faces at local events, creating portraits and producing artwork on T-shirts.
Determined to pursue a photography career, he saved every rand he earned from his artwork until he had enough money to buy his first camera. That investment marked a turning point in his life, transforming a passion for art into a growing photography business called and laying the foundation for the success he is building today.
“I never imagined I would receive so much support from simply taking pictures of people in town using my first camera. Since most of my clients were young people and schoolchildren, I charged affordable prices because I wanted everyone to experience my work. People appreciated the quality of my photographs, and their support continued to grow. That support gave me the confidence to keep investing in my business and improving my skills,” Nxumalo told Vutivi Business News.
Recognising the power of digital platforms, Nxumalo began sharing his work on social media. By consistently posting high-quality photographs and engaging with potential clients online, he was able to reach a much wider audience than through word of mouth alone. His online presence helped attract new customers, increase bookings and establish his brand within the community.
“Social media changed everything for my business. Many of my clients first saw my work online and then came looking for me where I was working. Posting my photographs helped me reach more people, build trust with potential clients and grow my business through referrals,” said Nxumalo.
As more people shared and recommended his work, his business continued to grow. The increase in clients enabled Nxumalo to reinvest in his business. Instead of spending his earnings elsewhere, he purchased better photography equipment, including a drone camera, allowing him to offer aerial photography and videography.
The investment expanded the range of services he provides and enabled him to cover bigger events. He said the growth of the business has not only benefited him and Ehloliwe Media but has also created employment opportunities for others.
As demand for his services increased, he employed three youths to assist him when covering events.
Their responsibilities include helping carry photography equipment, setting up for shoots and providing support during events, allowing the business to operate more efficiently while creating much-needed income opportunities for other young people.
Despite the growth of his business, Nxumalo says the journey has not been without challenges. Like many entrepreneurs, he has faced obstacles that could easily discourage someone from pursuing their dream.
“Every business has its own challenges. One of the biggest challenges I face is not having enough equipment, especially cameras, to meet the high demand during the busy December period when many people host events. It can be exhausting because I often must work every day without taking a break to cover all my bookings,” he said.
“Despite these challenges, I remain committed to delivering quality work while working towards investing in more equipment to grow my business,” he said.
Looking ahead, he hopes to take his business to even greater heights.
“My dream is for my work to be recognised by major production companies and for my business to become a respected brand in the industry. I also hope to own professional equipment that will help me deliver the best possible service to my clients and continue growing my business,” he said.
Nxumalo’s story highlights the importance of entrepreneurship and innovation. By believing in his abilities, investing in his skills and embracing technology to market his business, he has built a successful future behind the camera while inspiring other young people to turn their talents into successful enterprises.
