Kananelo Moshabesha: Mosotho documentary photographer capturing culture, human connection, and authentic moments

Kananelo Lehlohonolo Moshabesha is a filmmaker, photographer and visual storyteller from Lesotho. He holds a Diploma in Film Production from Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, specialising in cinematography, editing, and visual storytelling.

His work focuses on capturing authentic moments that reflect emotion, culture, and human connection. With experience in photography, documentary filmmaking, and creative media production, he has collaborated on community and impact-driven projects across Southern Africa.

Kananelo has worked with organisations, including The Hub, to produce visual content that inspires learning, dialogue, and social change. His storytelling has also taken him beyond Lesotho through creative programmes and collaborations in Namibia and Nigeria.

Driven by faith and purpose, he believes photography is more than creating beautiful images; it is about preserving stories that matter. Kananelo continues to develop his craft while using film and photography as tools for creativity, advocacy, and meaningful human connection.

How did you get started in photography?

I started photography because of my passion for filmmaking. While studying Film Production, I became fascinated by cinematography and the way a single frame could tell a story, evoke emotion, and preserve a moment in time. As I learned more about composition, lighting, and visual storytelling, I realised that photography offered the same power in a single image.

Growing up in Lesotho also shaped the way I see the world. I was inspired by the beauty of everyday life, landscapes, and the genuine moments shared among people.

Over time, photography became more than a creative skill; it became a way for me to document real stories and celebrate the people and places around me.

Since then, I've continued to develop my craft through creative projects, community work, and collaborations, always aiming to create images that are both visually compelling and meaningful.

How would you describe yourself?

I am a storyteller, creative problem-solver, and someone who is always looking for a reason to create. I love finding beauty in ordinary moments and turning them into visual stories that people can connect with.

My background in filmmaking has shaped the way I see photography, as I’m always thinking about light, composition, and the story behind an image.

I don’t actually own a camera yet; I borrow one from work whenever I get the chance to chase a passion project, so yes, every shoot comes with a very respectful "please don't let me break this" moment!

When I'm not creating, I enjoy writing poetry, exploring new ideas, and finding inspiration in everyday life. My faith keeps me grounded, and I believe creativity is a gift meant to be shared with purpose, passion, and a little bit of humour.

What are the main themes that inspire your photography?

My photography is usually inspired by human connection, authenticity, culture, fashion, and the beauty found in everyday moments. I'm drawn to images that tell stories, whether it's a quiet expression, a meaningful interaction, or a moment that reflects someone's journey.

For me, photography is not just about creating visually pleasing images; it is about creating a conversation. I hope my work reminds people of shared experiences, emotions, and the stories that make us human.

What moment in your career are you most proud of?

One of the moments I am most proud of in my creative journey was being part of the winning team at the INSPIRE Designathon in Lagos, Nigeria. It was a powerful experience because it showed me that storytelling and creativity can create real impact beyond just making something visually appealing.

I am also proud of the many smaller moments that have shaped my career, the opportunities to work on films, documentaries, community projects, and creative collaborations where my work has helped share important stories.

Coming from Lesotho and building my craft through passion, learning, and borrowed equipment, I have found every opportunity to create meaningful work. For me, the greatest milestone is knowing that my work can make someone feel seen, start a conversation, or inspire change.

Those moments remind me why I chose photography and filmmaking in the first place.

What is the biggest challenge you've faced as a photographer?

Creating without always having access to my own equipment is my major challenge. I don't currently own a camera, so many of my passion projects have been created by borrowing equipment from work and making the most of every opportunity I get.

This challenge taught me that creativity is not limited to the tools you have, but rather how you see and use the opportunities available to you. It pushed me to focus more on storytelling, composition, and intentional choices rather than relying solely on equipment.

Over time, I learned to be resourceful, patient, and grateful for every chance to create. It has strengthened my belief that a photographer's most important tool is not the camera, but the vision behind it.

What type of photography do you specialise in?

I focus on portrait, documentary, and lifestyle photography. My approach is influenced by my background in filmmaking, so I naturally look for emotion, atmosphere, and the small details that make an image feel alive.

I'm drawn to this style because I believe every person and every moment has a story worth preserving. Whether I'm photographing an individual, a community, or a special occasion, I want my images to feel honest and connected rather than simply posed.

Over time, my style has evolved from focusing mainly on creating visually appealing images to creating images with deeper purpose and emotion. I've become more intentional with light, composition, and storytelling, always looking for ways to create photographs that allow people to feel something and remember a moment.

What type of photography do you specialise in?

I focus on portrait, documentary, and lifestyle photography. My approach is influenced by my background in filmmaking, so I naturally look for emotion, atmosphere, and the small details that make an image feel alive.

I'm drawn to this style because I believe every person and every moment has a story worth preserving. Whether I'm photographing an individual, a community, or a special occasion, I want my images to feel honest and connected rather than simply posed.

Over time, my style has evolved from focusing mainly on creating visually appealing images to creating images with deeper purpose and emotion. I've become more intentional with light, composition, and storytelling, always looking for ways to create photographs that allow people to feel something and remember a moment.

What is your unique technical or visual approach?

My photography is a mix of photography and filmmaking. I'm always looking for the story hiding inside a frame. I love playing with natural light, honest expressions, and those little in-between moments that usually happen when people forget the camera is there.

I'm also a bit of a "light chaser". If the sun hits a wall interestingly, there’s a good chance I'll stop and stare at it longer than I should. My goal is to create images that feel cinematic yet real enough that people can see themselves in them.

Which global brands, photographers, or industries do you feel your work aligns with most?

My work resonates with photographers and brands that use visuals to tell honest, human stories. I'm inspired by photographers like Awuku Darko, whose work captures emotion, culture, and identity through powerful portraits and storytelling.

How's the photography and art space in Lesotho?

Photography in Lesotho is growing excitingly. As a country with a rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and deeply rooted traditions, countless stories are waiting to be captured and shared with the world.

In recent years, the creative industry has evolved with the rise of social media, better access to technology, and more young creatives using photography, film, and digital platforms to express themselves.

Photography is no longer seen only as a way of documenting events, but as a form of storytelling, identity, and cultural preservation. There are still challenges, including limited resources, fewer exhibition opportunities, and insufficient support for emerging artists.

However, the passion and creativity among young Basotho artists continue to grow. I believe we are entering a period where more local stories are being told by the people who live them, and photography is becoming an important tool for showing the world the beauty and diversity of Lesotho.

What is one professional standard you never compromise on?

I value professionalism in the way I work with others. Showing up prepared, respecting people's time, and creating a comfortable environment are just as important as the final image. A great photograph starts with trust, and that’s something I always aim to build.

What do you think of the 54Ruum platform?

I think 54Ruum is a powerful platform because it creates a space where African photographers can be seen, connected, and celebrated. As creatives from the continent, we have so many stories, perspectives, and cultures that deserve to be shared beyond our borders.

What I appreciate most about 54Ruum is that it goes beyond simply showcasing images; it creates a community where photographers can learn from each other, discover different visual languages, and feel part of something bigger.

Coming from Lesotho, where the creative industry is still growing, platforms like this are important because they remind emerging artists that our work has value and that our stories belong on global stages.

I see 54Ruum as a bridge between local stories and a wider audience, helping African photographers build connections and leave a lasting visual legacy.