Photo Essay: People Breathe Here

In this piece, Esethu Sam, a Cape Town-based multidisciplinary storyteller, reflects on the making of her photoseries People in Spaces, People Owning Spaces, shaped through attentive encounters with individuals often seen in passing. Moving from observation to sustained presence, the essay develops as a thoughtful journey through space, identity, and self-definition, looking at how lives are inhabited, recorded, and slowly claimed over time.

As a multidisciplinary storyteller, my approach to photography is rooted in empathy, observation, and lived experience. I craft quiet yet powerful narratives that explore the intersections of social justice, environmental consciousness, and personal identity, centering voices at the margins. My work is driven by a desire to hold space for truth and reflection, using creativity as both expression and responsibility.

In my photoseries, People in Spaces, People Owning Spaces, I delve into the complexities of existence, capturing individuals who embody resilience and self-awareness. Through intimate portraits and thoughtful compositions, I invite viewers to reflect on their own journeys, exploring the delicate balance between vulnerability and liberation. This series embodies my commitment to showcasing the beauty of self-expression and the power of owning one's space.

The individuals in these photographs are not just subjects; they are storytellers, each with their own narrative of struggle, growth, and triumph. They exist at the intersections of identity, navigating the complexities of culture, history, and personal experience. By capturing their stories, I aim to create a sense of connection, empathy, and understanding.

Through documentary film, photography, and writing, I aim to inspire others to listen closely, feel deeply, and imagine new possibilities. I'm driven by the power of art to contribute to a more just and equitable world, proving storytelling can be a tool for tangible change. By sharing the stories of those often overlooked, I hope to spark empathy, foster understanding, and ignite transformation.

Ultimately, my work is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for growth, resilience, and connection. It's a celebration of the beauty found in the margins, and a reminder that every voice matters. As a storyteller, I'm committed to continuing to amplify the stories that need to be told, using my craft to inspire, educate, and uplift.

The photographs in this series are more than just images; they are windows into the souls of those who have dared to own their spaces. They are a testament to the power of self-expression, a celebration of individuality, and a reminder that our stories are worth telling.

As viewers engage with these images, I hope they will be inspired to reflect on their own journeys, to explore the spaces they occupy, and to claim ownership of their own narratives. I hope they will be moved to listen to the stories of others, to amplify marginalized voices, and to contribute to a more just and equitable world.

In the end, People in Spaces, People Owning Spaces is not just a photoseries; it's a movement. It's a call to action, a reminder that we all have the power to shape our own stories, to own our spaces, and to create change. It's a testament to the transformative power of art, and the impact we can have when we choose to listen, to feel, and to imagine.

This photoseries is a reflection of my own journey as a storyteller, a celebration of the beauty found in the margins, and a reminder that every voice matters. I hope it inspires others to join me on this journey, to amplify the stories that need to be told, and to contribute to a world where everyone has the power to own their space.

The photographs in this series are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, a celebration of individuality, and a reminder that our stories are worth telling. I hope they inspire, educate, and uplift, and that they contribute to a more just and equitable world.

As a multidisciplinary storyteller, I'm committed to continuing to craft quiet yet powerful narratives that explore the intersections of social justice, environmental consciousness, and personal identity. I'm driven by the power of art to contribute to a more just and equitable world, and I'm honored to share these stories with you.

People in Spaces, People Owning Spaces is a reflection of my commitment to showcasing the beauty of self-expression and the power of owning one's space. I hope it inspires others to join me on this journey, to amplify the stories that need to be told, and to contribute to a world where everyone has the power to own their space.

In conclusion, my photoseries is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for growth, resilience, and connection. It's a celebration of the beauty found in the margins, and a reminder that every voice matters. I hope it inspires, educates, and uplifts, and that it contributes to a more just and equitable world.

All photographs are the author’s own.