Ketiel Fetene, landscape photographer based in Ethiopia

Ketiel Fetene’s work explores landscapes, rural life and overlooked everyday moments. His photography began during the lockdown, he started with capturing the quiet beauty of his surroundings with just a phone camera. Since then, he has dedicated himself to capturing landscapes, rural life and liminal spaces.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

I am an Ethiopian photographer and mining engineering student who loves to capture landscapes and rural life, showing the beauty in overlooked places.

A fun fact: I started photography with just my phone during the lockdown, and what started as a pastime quickly grew into one of my greatest passions.

How did you first get into photography?

I first got into photography during the lockdown, when the world felt paused and silent. With nowhere to go, I picked up my phone and began capturing everything around me; from the quiet corners to open skies. That simple act of noticing and documenting life sparked my passion and from then on, I couldn’t stop seeing beauty in everyday scenes.

What type(s) of photography do you specialise in, and why did you choose this niche?

I specialise in landscape, rural life, and documentary style of photography. I chose this niche because I am drawn to the beauty of overlooked places and the slower rhythms of life outside the city. Over time, my style has evolved from simply capturing what I see to creating images that reflect mood, memory and a sense of presence. This has turned ordinary scenes into something more timeless.

Can you share the underlying themes or ideas that drive your photography?

My photography is driven by a curiosity for the things most people pass by without noticing; quiet moments, landscapes and the lives that exist quietly but meaningfully.

I use my photography as a bridge to connect with others through common emotions such as nostalgia, curiosity and awe. Whether it’s a weathered village street, a fleeting moment of daily life, or a landscape that is bathed in subtle light, I hope my images create empathy and conversation, and encourage people to see beauty in places and moments that they might not have noticed before.

What's the one achievement or moment in your photography career that you're most proud of?

The moment I’m most proud of in my photography career was seeing one of my pictures exhibited at the Human Rights Commission and getting featured in The Smart View. Having my work recognised in spaces that value storytelling and social awareness was incredibly rewarding and it reinforced my belief in the power of photography to connect and inspire.

What's the biggest challenge you've faced as a photographer, and how did you overcome it?

One of my biggest challenges has been staying motivated and true to my vision, especially when external recognition doesn't come immediately.

I have learned that what truly motivates a photographer is the passion for the art itself, not accolades. By focusing on the stories I want to tell, I’ve learned to draw my motivation from within, and this has deepened my skill and my connection to the work.

If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be and why?

This would be Thomas Heaton; because of his incredible approach to landscape photography and his ability to capture light and emotion in natural settings. His work always inspires me to see landscapes differently. From my home country, Ethiopia, I would also love to collaborate with @aziz_ahmed, the founder of Ethiopian Wildlife, who has been dedicated to documenting and conserving our natural heritage.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

54Ruum is an exciting platform that truly promotes African photographers and creative talent.

I appreciate the commitment to showcasing diverse stories and giving artists visibility and opportunities across the continent.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting their photography journey, what would it be?