A documentary investigation of the Imvunge group of street photographers in Durban with specific reference to the develpment of photographic and business skills (1999-2009)

Abstract

The aim of this research is to document and evaluate the Imvunge group of street photographers in Durban with specific reference to the development of photographic and business skills from 1999 to 2009. This study will focus on a discussion of how members of the Imvunge group started their photographic careers as street photographers and how, through participating in projects and workshops, they developed their photographic skills and became professional photographers. This will include an investigation of both photographic skills such as image capturing, lighting techniques, image presentation and visual literacy; as well as business skills such as basic accounting and marketing. Chapter One provides an account of the history of photographic techniques and street photography in Europe, Africa, South Africa, KwaZulu-Natal and Durban in order to provide a context to the formation of the Imvunge group of photographers. Chapter Two provides an historical background of the candidate’s work as a street photographer in Durban from 1969 to 1989, before registering at Technikon Natal for formal training in photography. It also discusses his life history from being a young businessman, a lecturer, in order to provide information regarding the business and photographic skills acquired and which he was able to impart to street photographers. Chapter Three documents the formation of the Imvunge Street Photographers’ group; the partnership between the Imvunge group and the Durban Art Gallery, the Imvunge group’s exhibitions and projects, the history of selected members of the Imvunge group and an analysis of their work to provide evidence of an improvement in their photographic skills. The conclusion will present findings from this research project and will include a proposal for areas of research.