Pekelatate Haindongo who goes by Peke, is a self-taught, full time creative and photographer, currently honing on his videography skills. Get to know the man behind Tate Visuals.
Why and how did you get into photography?
Having always been drawn to visual arts, it was very easy for me to get into photography. My big brother had a camera that we used on holidays and from then on, it didn’t take long for me to realize I really enjoyed doing it.
What made you fall in love with photography?
The process. When I picked up my brother’s camera, it soon dawned on me that I needed to get better at it. And it was through that process of trying to become a better photographer, that the love for it just kept growing.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
From my surroundings. Inspiration can come from just talking to someone, watching a film, listening to a song, and or another artist’s work. My inspiration comes from all over the place, honestly.
Your favourite creatives in the industry?
Favourite creatives; Vernon Van Wyk(Namibia), Cedric Nzaka (South Africa), Aart Verips (South Africa), Adrienne Raquel and Renell Medrano (United States). I have so many, I can’t finish naming them all.
Describe your ideal client.
One that allows me creative freedom.
How has your creative journey been so far?
It has its challenges. Doing this full time means I make a living on being a creative and photographer, and it can be really difficult in this country. Our industry is still relatively small and although there has been growth, clients don’t always value the work and effort we put in. There is a general reluctance from clients to match the rates we set. There are, however, moments where I fall in love with the craft all over again, and for as long as I keep having those moments, I’ll keep at it until I am where I want to be.
What would you tell aspiring photographers?
I am relatively new to this industry as well, nonetheless what I’ve learned so far is being dedicated to your work goes a long way. I try not to have one style of shooting nor editing, that helps me learn different ways of doing what I love. That has allowed me to learn from fellow creatives in the industry, so I’ll say be teachable.
What would you like to achieve with your art?
At this point I just want it to be the tool that gets me into places where I can afford to fully express myself, artistically.
It is a beautiful feeling when you visualize an idea or concept and manage to bring it to life.”
Photography, videography, cinematography and creative arts as a whole have been the pinnacle of the creative industry. Most art forms are translated into visuals displays, whether its movie stills, music videos or a photograph in and of itself, as seeing it stimulates people visually. Let’s honour the people who bring these visuals to life.
If you would like to work with Pekelatate, contact him at:
Email: tatesvisuals@gmail.com
Instagram: @pekelatate
