For documentary photographer Justin Keene, photography is not just about capturing moments; it is about telling powerful, often untold, stories. Through his ongoing project It Must Be Built From The Ashes, Justin shines a light on the educational inequalities and the daily struggles of youth in Mitchells Plain, a township on the outskirts of Cape Town. Mitchells Plain, originally established in the 1970s as a relocation area during apartheid, has a painful history and continues to face challenges in terms of socio-economic development and social justice. Through his evocative images, Justin aims to counteract negative portrayals and offer a more accurate, humanizing representation of the lives in this marginalized community.
Born to South African parents but raised in Hampshire, Justin has always felt a deep connection to South Africa. Although his formal education at Edinburgh University was in Philosophy, followed by a law conversion course in London, his heart remained in South Africa. Over the years, he frequently visited the country, drawn not only to its natural beauty but also to its complex, layered history. He initially entered the corporate world, but the more he experienced South Africa’s struggles and opportunities for change, the more he felt the pull to use photography as a medium for storytelling. It was in this context that Justin transitioned from a career in business to one in photography, where he could engage directly with issues of representation, ethics, and identity.
The Path to Photography
Justin Keene’s entry into the world of photography is rooted in his deep personal connection to South Africa. Growing up in an environment shaped by Western ideals, Justin became acutely aware of the misrepresentations and stereotypes often associated with South Africa, especially in the context of apartheid and its lasting effects on the country’s people. His awareness of these misrepresentations drove him to use photography as a means to explore the contrast between mainstream narratives and the often-overlooked personal stories of those directly affected by the injustices of apartheid.
South Africa's history is filled with powerful stories of resilience, survival, and transformation. However, these stories are frequently overshadowed by more sensationalized or negative portrayals that fail to capture the complexity of everyday life in the country. This gap in representation was one of the driving forces behind Justin’s decision to pursue photography. With an innate desire to tell stories that challenge the status quo, Justin understood the potential for photography to capture not just the surface of an issue but its deeper, more human elements.
His journey into photography was not necessarily pre-planned but rather an organic evolution born out of his experiences and exposure to South Africa's complex cultural and political landscape. Growing up with South African heritage, Justin had a unique perspective that allowed him to understand the intricacies of the country’s history, culture, and socio-economic challenges. Over time, his fascination with South Africa’s untold stories led him to pick up a camera and begin documenting life through his own lens.
The Intersection of History, Identity, and Representation
As Justin’s photographic journey began to take shape, his focus centered on themes of identity, representation, and the historical struggles of South Africa. Given his dual heritage—born to South African parents but raised in the United Kingdom—Justin was deeply aware of the disconnect between Western portrayals of Africa and the reality of life on the continent. The complexities of identity played a central role in his photography, as he sought to understand how individuals in South Africa navigated their own sense of self within the broader context of a history defined by systemic injustice and inequality.
The aftershocks of apartheid still reverberate throughout South African society, and Justin’s work has always sought to address the lingering impacts of this dark chapter. His early photographic projects focused on capturing the ways in which South African people were navigating post-apartheid life, questioning the roles that identity and race continued to play in shaping their lives. Through his images, Justin aimed to push back against stereotypes and offer alternative perspectives to the mainstream media portrayals that often reduced South Africans to mere victims of their past or one-dimensional representations.
The process of capturing these stories required an understanding of the delicate balance between documenting difficult histories and giving voice to those whose lives were shaped by them. For Justin, the lens became not just a tool for recording images, but a means of challenging the dominant narratives that often excluded the lived experiences of South Africans, particularly those who lived in townships like Mitchells Plain or other historically marginalized areas.
A Natural Transition into Photography
While Justin’s entry into photography may have seemed like a natural progression, it was not an immediate or obvious choice for him. Before becoming a full-time photographer, Justin had worked in the corporate world, following a path that was more aligned with the expectations of his upbringing and education. However, the more he engaged with South Africa—through his visits and connections to people there—the more he felt compelled to document the country’s stories through visual media. His decision to pursue photography was driven by an intuitive urge to bridge the gap between the theoretical study of history and its real-world implications.
Photography offered Justin a means of engaging directly with South African culture and the people whose stories were rarely heard. Armed with a camera, Justin began to explore the country and capture the nuances of life that eluded the broader media. The freedom to travel and experience the world through his lens gave him access to stories that were often hidden beneath the surface. Whether he was documenting the aftermath of apartheid or simply capturing the daily lives of individuals, photography allowed Justin to immerse himself in South African society and understand it from a more personal, intimate perspective.
As he continued his journey, Justin realized that photography was not just a profession for him—it was a calling. Through his camera, he was able to document the intersection of culture, history, and identity, creating images that captured not only the beauty of South Africa but also the pain and resilience that had defined the country for decades. His work became an expression of his desire to make visible the stories of those who had long been overlooked or misrepresented.
Discovering the Power of Portraiture
One of the key aspects of Justin’s photographic style is his focus on portraiture. Portrait photography, to Justin, is the most powerful way to capture the essence of an individual and convey their story. In South Africa, where people’s lives have been shaped by the harsh realities of apartheid and its aftermath, portraiture offers an opportunity to break free from the often reductive stereotypes that dominate mainstream portrayals of the country. By focusing on individuals and their personal experiences, Justin aims to provide a more nuanced and empathetic portrayal of South African life.
His portraiture is more than just a technical exercise—it’s an effort to build relationships and create a space where the subjects feel comfortable enough to reveal their true selves. In many of his early projects, Justin would spend hours with his subjects before even picking up the camera. This slow, intentional approach allowed him to understand the person behind the photograph and capture their authenticity. For Justin, the process of photographing someone was as much about the conversation and connection as it was about the final image.
In a country like South Africa, where history and identity are deeply intertwined with race and social status, Justin’s portraiture serves as a reminder that every person has a story worth telling. By focusing on individuals and capturing them in intimate settings, Justin’s photographs offer a counter-narrative to the stereotypical images of South African life that often focus on poverty, crime, and despair. His portraits, instead, highlight the dignity, strength, and resilience of the people who are the backbone of South Africa’s post-apartheid society.
Building Relationships with Communities
Justin’s approach to photography has always been rooted in collaboration and mutual respect. From the beginning, he knew that his work in South Africa would require him to build strong relationships with the communities he was photographing. The process of creating these relationships was not always easy, especially given the complex history of race and power dynamics in South Africa. However, Justin recognized that genuine engagement was crucial to ensuring that his photographs were meaningful and representative of the people he was documenting.
Rather than approaching his subjects as passive participants in his work, Justin sought to involve them in the creative process. This meant taking the time to listen to their stories, learn about their lives, and allow them to influence how they were portrayed in the final images. By working alongside his subjects, Justin was able to create an environment where trust and mutual respect could flourish, resulting in photographs that were authentic and meaningful to both the photographer and the people in front of the lens.
This collaborative approach was especially important when working in communities like Mitchells Plain, where people had long been subjected to the stereotypes and biases of mainstream media. Justin’s goal was to offer an alternative to the prevailing narratives that reduced individuals to mere statistics or symbols of hardship. Through his work, he aimed to showcase the humanity of the people in Mitchells Plain and other townships, portraying them as complex individuals with dreams, struggles, and aspirations.
Challenging the Media's Portrayal of South Africa
Throughout his career, Justin has been acutely aware of the way South Africa has been portrayed in the media—both during the apartheid era and in the years that followed. While the fall of apartheid brought new freedoms and opportunities for many, the media’s portrayal of the country has often remained entrenched in stereotypes. South Africa is frequently depicted as a land of violence, poverty, and corruption, leaving little room for the stories of hope, resilience, and everyday life that define much of the country’s reality.
Justin’s photography seeks to challenge these narrow and reductive portrayals. Through his lens, he captures the complexities of South African life, offering a more nuanced perspective that includes the stories of those who have often been marginalized by both history and the media. By focusing on the lived experiences of ordinary people, Justin aims to show that South Africa is more than just its struggles—it is a place where individuals are actively shaping their futures and building lives beyond the limitations imposed by apartheid.
In his work, Justin brings to light the voices of those who have been left out of the dominant narratives. He uses his photography as a tool for social change, challenging the media to expand its scope and look beyond the surface-level stories that have long defined South Africa’s image. Through his images, Justin hopes to inspire others to see the country—and its people—in a new light, one that recognizes the diversity, complexity, and beauty of South Africa’s post-apartheid reality.
The Ongoing Journey
As Justin continues to document the stories of South Africa, his work remains grounded in the belief that photography has the power to transform how we see the world. His journey into photography was driven by a desire to tell the untold stories of South Africa, to give a voice to those whose experiences had been overlooked or misrepresented. His commitment to ethical, collaborative storytelling is at the heart of his practice, as he strives to create images that reflect the humanity of his subjects while challenging the stereotypes that continue to define the country’s identity.
Looking ahead, Justin is excited to continue his exploration of South Africa’s rich history, culture, and people. Whether working on his current projects or pursuing new opportunities, he remains dedicated to using photography as a means of shedding light on the stories that matter most. Through his lens, Justin hopes to continue making visible the voices of those who have long been silenced, offering a more nuanced, truthful representation of South Africa for the world to see.
Influences and Inspirations
Justin Keene’s approach to photography is deeply influenced by a diverse range of artists and photographers who have shaped his understanding of the visual language and the role of photography in documenting culture, identity, and history. Unlike many photographers who may have a single “favorite” photographer, Justin finds his creative spark through a mosaic of different perspectives, drawing inspiration from those who challenge conventional norms in photography. His work is a testament to the belief that the camera is not merely a tool for capturing moments, but also an instrument for social commentary and reflection.
Among the many photographers who have influenced Justin, South African photographers like Pieter Hugo, David Goldblatt, and Sue Williamson stand out. These artists have played a significant role in shaping his approach to photography and helping him navigate the complexities of representing his homeland’s rich and often painful history. Each of these photographers has contributed in their own way to the dialogue surrounding race, memory, and identity in South Africa, issues that resonate deeply in Justin’s own work.
The Influence of David Goldblatt
David Goldblatt is one of the most well-known South African photographers whose work has had a profound impact on Justin’s development as a visual storyteller. Goldblatt's photography provides an unflinching look at the political and social realities of South Africa, particularly during and after the apartheid era. His ability to capture the nuanced, often uncomfortable truths of the country's history and its people is something Justin strives to emulate in his own work.
Goldblatt’s work speaks not only to the history of apartheid but also to its ongoing legacy, exploring the ways in which South African society has continued to grapple with issues of race, inequality, and justice long after the official end of apartheid. His candid and often stark depictions of life in South Africa go beyond simply documenting moments of hardship. They challenge viewers to confront the complexities of human behavior and social structures, pushing them to reflect on the socio-political forces that shape their everyday lives.
For Justin, Goldblatt’s work has been a guiding light in terms of his own approach to photographing sensitive, politically charged topics. Goldblatt’s commitment to truth-telling and his ability to reveal the hidden layers of social realities have inspired Justin to seek out similar layers in his subjects, encouraging him to look beyond the surface and capture the essence of the people and communities he works with.
Pieter Hugo and the Gritty Reality of South Africa
Another key influence on Justin’s photography is Pieter Hugo, whose gritty, raw portraits of people from marginalized communities in South Africa and beyond have had a lasting impact on his own style. Hugo is best known for his ability to capture the physical and emotional scars of his subjects, often using stark, unflinching close-ups to reveal the harshness of their lives. His work focuses on the intersection of trauma, memory, and identity, particularly in communities that have been ravaged by violence, poverty, and political oppression.
Hugo’s photographs frequently explore themes of violence and trauma, particularly within the context of post-apartheid South Africa. His intimate, often disturbing portraits provide a visceral look at the human cost of South Africa’s turbulent history. These images have had a significant influence on Justin’s approach to portraying individuals who live in the aftermath of systemic injustice. Like Hugo, Justin is deeply concerned with capturing the scars—both visible and invisible—that people carry with them as a result of the violence and oppression they have experienced.
However, what sets Justin apart from some of his influences is his focus on not only documenting trauma but also highlighting resilience and hope. While Hugo’s work often emphasizes the rawness of human suffering, Justin seeks to find the moments of humanity, connection, and strength that exist even within the most difficult circumstances. This balance between documenting hardship and celebrating resilience is a key feature of Justin’s photographic style, and it is one that he learned through his engagement with Hugo’s work.
Sue Williamson and the Exploration of Memory and Reconciliation
Sue Williamson is another South African photographer whose work has profoundly shaped Justin’s perspective on the role of photography in documenting history and identity. Williamson is known for her focus on themes of memory, race, and reconciliation, particularly in the context of South Africa’s transition from apartheid to a post-apartheid society. Her work often explores the lingering emotional and psychological effects of apartheid, delving into how individuals and communities come to terms with their past while striving for a better future.
For Justin, Williamson’s work has been particularly influential in shaping his understanding of how photography can serve as a tool for social healing. Her exploration of memory and its role in the reconciliation process has inspired Justin to approach his own subjects with a similar sensitivity to the past and its ongoing influence. Her work reminds him that photography is not only about documenting the present but also about acknowledging and confronting the past, which in turn informs the future.
Williamson’s approach to portraiture also had a significant impact on Justin’s own photographic style. She often captures her subjects in ways that emphasize their relationship to the broader historical and social context. For Justin, this method of integrating personal identity with the larger narrative is essential to creating images that resonate on a deeper level. Williamson’s work encourages him to consider how his subjects fit into the larger story of South Africa, acknowledging both their personal struggles and their role in shaping the collective memory of the country.
Global Influences: Sebastião Salgado and James Nachtwey
While Justin’s work is deeply rooted in the South African context, he has also been influenced by a range of global photographers who use photography as a tool for social change. Sebastião Salgado, a Brazilian photographer known for his haunting black-and-white images of human suffering, is one of the most significant global influences on Justin’s work. Salgado’s photographs of marginalized communities, refugees, and the effects of war have had a profound impact on Justin’s understanding of the power of photography to document and advocate for social change.
Salgado’s ability to create stunning, evocative images that tell powerful human stories, often in the face of great adversity, has inspired Justin to think deeply about the emotional and political potential of his own work. Salgado’s focus on the dignity of his subjects, even in the most harrowing circumstances, aligns with Justin’s desire to capture not just the struggles of the people he photographs but also their resilience, strength, and humanity. For Justin, Salgado’s work is a reminder that photography can be a tool for empathy and understanding, helping bridge the gap between disparate cultures and experiences.
Another key global influence on Justin’s work is James Nachtwey, an American photojournalist whose powerful images of war and conflict have earned him widespread recognition. Nachtwey’s ability to capture the human cost of violence and war, while maintaining an unwavering commitment to ethical photojournalism, has shaped Justin’s approach to documenting difficult subjects. Nachtwey’s work highlights the importance of telling stories that often go untold, particularly in conflict zones or areas affected by social unrest.
Like Nachtwey, Justin is deeply committed to ensuring that his photographs are not exploitative but rather serve as a tool for raising awareness and promoting change. Nachtwey’s dedication to telling the truth about human suffering, while also giving agency to his subjects, has inspired Justin to approach his own work with a similar sense of responsibility and integrity.
The Intersection of Art and Advocacy
What ties all these influences together is their shared belief in the power of photography to both document and advocate for social change. Justin Keene’s work is grounded in the belief that photography is not just an art form but a form of activism. Each of his influences, from South African photographers like David Goldblatt and Sue Williamson to global figures like Sebastião Salgado and James Nachtwey, has contributed to Justin’s understanding of how images can shape public opinion, challenge dominant narratives, and spark social dialogue.
Justin’s photography seeks to address complex societal issues, from the legacies of apartheid in South Africa to global struggles for human rights and social justice. By drawing on these diverse influences, he aims to create work that speaks to both the emotional and intellectual aspects of social issues. Photography, for Justin, is about more than just aesthetics—it is about using the power of the image to bring attention to important issues, challenge the status quo, and inspire change.
Developing a Unique Voice Through Influences
Ultimately, these various influences have helped Justin Keene develop a unique voice in the world of photography. While he draws inspiration from established photographers, he has also worked hard to carve out his own niche within the art form. By merging the lessons he has learned from figures like David Goldblatt, Pieter Hugo, Sue Williamson, Sebastião Salgado, and James Nachtwey, Justin has developed a photographic style that is deeply rooted in South African history and culture while also engaging with broader global issues.
His ability to fuse personal, historical, and political narratives within his photography has made him a standout figure in contemporary documentary photography. Justin’s work goes beyond simply documenting the world—it seeks to engage with it, to challenge assumptions, and to offer new perspectives on familiar issues. His photographs are not just a record of what is; they are a call to action, a reminder of the power of images to change the way we see the world.
Origins of It Must Be Built From The Ashes
The genesis of It Must Be Built From The Ashes is rooted in Justin’s interactions with young individuals from Hout Bay, a suburb of Cape Town. It was during these interactions that he realized the potential to use photography to tell stories of local people and their ongoing struggles with issues like gang violence, poverty, and education. However, as he began to explore the topic more deeply, he became aware of the ethical challenges of documenting communities that were not his own, particularly as a white photographer working within an overwhelmingly non-white space. He wrestled with questions around exploitation and the potential for reinforcing harmful stereotypes about the communities he sought to represent.
It was at this juncture that Justin decided to take a step back, reconsidering his approach to storytelling. After meeting someone who suggested Mitchells Plain as a new subject for exploration, Justin was immediately intrigued by the area’s rich history and the personal stories waiting to be told. He was aware of Mitchells Plain’s reputation for gang violence, which had been sensationalized by the media, but he was also determined to capture a more nuanced, human perspective of life in the area. The project, therefore, emerged from his desire to confront and challenge mainstream media portrayals of Mitchells Plain while confronting his own assumptions about the community.
Mitchells Plain, established as a forced relocation area during apartheid, is a place where the legacy of apartheid continues to shape people’s lives. However, beyond the stigma surrounding gang violence, Justin recognized that there were untold stories of resilience, hope, and transformation that needed to be told. This became the driving force behind It Must Be Built From The Ashes—to document the lives of young people growing up in an environment heavily influenced by the remnants of apartheid while also showing their humanity beyond the violence often associated with their community.
The Process Behind the Project
The creative process behind It Must Be Built From The Ashes was not merely about taking photographs—it was about fostering genuine relationships with the people involved in the project. Justin worked closely with a local friend who knew the area intimately and who could help bridge the gap between Justin and the community. This approach allowed him to engage more deeply with the people he was photographing, ensuring that their stories were represented with authenticity and respect.
At first, Justin refrained from bringing his camera along. Instead, he took the time to speak with individuals in the community, learning about their lives and experiences. This approach helped build trust and laid the groundwork for a more collaborative process. Over time, the relationships developed naturally, and the subjects felt comfortable with Justin. Once trust was established, he began photographing the people of Mitchells Plain, focusing primarily on portraiture. Portrait photography, Justin believes, is one of the most powerful ways to convey the essence of a person. Through carefully planned interactions, he captured portraits that spoke to the individuals' personalities, dreams, and struggles.
This process of collaboration was key to the success of the project. Justin didn’t see himself as an outsider coming into the community to take photographs. Instead, he worked alongside his subjects, allowing them to contribute ideas and shape the direction of the project. This participatory approach ensured that the resulting work was more than just a photographer’s interpretation—it was a shared endeavor between artist and community.
Memorable Moments from the Series
Among the many powerful moments captured in It Must Be Built From The Ashes, Justin recalls several portraits that stand out in his memory. Portraits of individuals like Elmarco, Juliet, Lucian, and Ferousa are particularly meaningful to him. Each of these portraits represents a deep connection forged through conversation, trust, and understanding. The portraits were not rushed; they were the result of time spent with the subjects, getting to know their stories and finding the right moment to capture their image.
One particularly memorable moment was when Juliet approached Justin one day and asked if he could take her portrait. Juliet had an undeniable presence—an energy that Justin felt was important to capture. Through their conversation, he learned more about her life and her experiences, and he hoped that her portrait would do justice to the unique and vibrant individual she was.
Aiming for Connection with the Audience
Justin understands that working in South Africa comes with significant ethical challenges. There is often criticism surrounding the exploitation of subjects, especially when the photographer comes from a different background. These challenges have led Justin to carefully reflect on his role and the impact of his work. He is committed to ensuring that his projects benefit the people he works with, giving them a voice and allowing them to share their stories with a wider audience.
In addition to this, Justin is deeply invested in mentoring young photographers in South Africa. He has provided them with photography equipment and has worked with them to help them develop their own photographic projects. His goal is to empower the next generation of South African photographers to continue telling their stories, ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are heard and that their stories are told by those who truly understand them.
What’s Next for Justin Keene?
Looking to the future, Justin is excited to share his work with a broader international audience. He will be exhibiting two images from It Must Be Built From The Ashes at Photo Tallinn in Estonia, where his work will be featured alongside other notable photographers. He is also preparing for a presentation at Photo London at Somerset House, where new images from the series will be shown to an international audience.
In addition to these exhibitions, Justin has been working on a new project titled Walls in the Riverbed, which focuses on early diamond mining in South Africa. This new series takes a deeper look at the history and impact of diamond mining on local communities, particularly those who have been affected by the environmental and social consequences of this industry. Justin is also working on a photo book in collaboration with Lisa Barnard from The University of South Wales. This book, which will collect his work from It Must Be Built From The Ashes and his other projects, is slated for publication soon.
Through these ongoing projects, Justin remains committed to using photography as a means of telling untold stories, challenging stereotypes, and giving a platform to those whose voices are often marginalized. His work continues to engage with important social and political issues, offering a unique and powerful perspective on life in South Africa.
Final Thoughts:
Justin Keene’s journey into photography is a testament to the power of storytelling through visual media. His work, particularly in It Must Be Built From The Ashes, offers a unique and nuanced perspective on the complex realities of life in Mitchells Plain, Cape Town. By focusing on the lives of youth in a community often defined by violence and poverty, Justin challenges mainstream portrayals that oversimplify and sensationalize the township’s struggles. Instead, he provides an intimate, humanizing view that sheds light on the resilience, aspirations, and everyday lives of those living in Mitchells Plain.
Through this project, Justin navigates the delicate balance of being an outsider in a community he has come to know deeply. He acknowledges the ethical challenges of documenting a marginalized group while ensuring that the people he works with have agency in how their stories are told. By working collaboratively with his subjects and taking the time to build relationships before picking up his camera, Justin ensures that his work does not exploit or misrepresent but rather empowers his subjects, giving them a voice that is often denied to them.
His approach to photography as a medium for advocacy and social change is not limited to his own practice. Justin actively seeks to inspire and mentor the next generation of photographers in South Africa. By providing young photographers with equipment and opportunities to tell their own stories, he helps ensure that the voices of communities like Mitchells Plain are heard on their own terms. This mentoring extends beyond just technical skills—he imparts the importance of ethical storytelling, challenging young photographers to question their role in the narratives they choose to capture.
Looking to the future, Justin’s ongoing projects and exhibitions signal his commitment to using photography as a tool for positive change. His new series Walls in the Riverbed, which delves into the history of diamond mining in South Africa, offers another opportunity to engage with the country’s complex past and its continued social and environmental consequences. As he works towards publishing his first photo book, Justin’s photography continues to evolve, rooted in his dedication to shedding light on untold stories and amplifying marginalized voices. Through his lens, he invites the world to see the truth of South Africa—its struggles, its beauty, and its people—without filter or distortion.
