Photography Saved My Life

Rutendo Mazhindu- Zim Now Reporter

From battling depression in silence to building a growing reputation as a powerful visual storyteller, Zimbabwean photographer Ray Lukas Matingwina says photography rescued him during one of the lowest points in his life.

“Photography was my lifeline during my darkest days,” said Matingwina. “The camera and computer were my comfort zones when sadness and depression overwhelmed me.”

Born and raised in Harare, Matingwina said his journey into photography began not as a career choice, but as a means of emotional survival.

“To understand the unknown, I looked inward and realised that photography was all I needed,” he said. “I channelled my emotions through the lens, capturing both my struggles and joyful moments.”

He said the art form became part of his healing.

“It was as if photography was within me, waiting for the right moment to emerge.”

Without formal training or mentorship, Matingwina relied on trial and error, digital tutorials, and the work of other photographers to learn.

“I honed my skills through trial and error, studied the work of others, and continuously pushed the boundaries of my creativity,” he said.

Matingwina describes himself as a photographer driven by emotion, light, and honesty.

“A real photo speaks,” he said. “It’s not just about looks—it’s about feeling. I chase raw emotion, killer lighting, and honest vibes in every frame.”

His creative process, he explained, begins with visualisation and emotional connection.

“I vibe with the concept first, then scout the mood, location, and look,” he said. “I prep my gear, playlist, and mindset. Inspiration? I breathe it from everyday life.”

He prefers shooting in manual mode, where he can fully control exposure, focus, and creativity.

“Tech gives me control, art gives me soul,” he said. “I shoot manual, play with light, and trust my gut. Lightroom and Photoshop help seal the deal.”

One of his most emotional assignments, he said, was a lobola shoot that captured far more than smiles and poses.

“It wasn’t just pictures—it was storytelling in its rawest, most beautiful form. There was love, there were real tears, there was pride. You don’t get that in every shoot.”

Matingwina firmly believes that “every picture tells a story.”

“Each frame must say something. Whether it’s love, pain, victory, or stillness—every image should speak a thousand words.”

Despite his rising profile, he said the journey has been far from easy.

“There were days I had no access to proper equipment,” he recalled. “I watched tutorials on borrowed data, practised editing on an old, slow computer, and worked from cramped spaces—but I never stopped.”

He credits his progress to the support of peers and fellow creatives.

“I’m not self-made. I got here because people around me believed in me, shared ideas, and reminded me not to give up,” said Matingwina.

Today, he has worked with a wide range of clients, from couples and families to fashion brands and community initiatives. His work features in portfolios, social campaigns, and online galleries.

Matingwina said he plans to expand his reach and launch a cinematic portrait series.

“Big goals—international shoots, brand collabs, and a studio that feels like home,” he said. “I’m hyped for my cinematic portrait series dropping soon.”

He encouraged young creatives to believe in their stories and not wait for the perfect moment to start.

“Don’t wait for permission. Start with what you have. Keep shooting, keep learning, and trust your voice.”

For Matingwina, photography not only gave him a second chance—it has become a way to help others find theirs.