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The Innocence of a Child
• The Innocence of a Child
October 24, 2024
Photographs by VICTOR MWAKAPILA
The innocence of children is one of the most profound aspects of early human life, representing purity, wonder, and an unfiltered view of the world. Unlike adults, children have not yet been shaped by society’s complexities, allowing them to approach life with curiosity, honesty, and trust. This innocence fosters creativity and optimism, as they tend to see the good in people and the beauty in everyday things without preconceived biases.
They play and communicate with genuine intent, valuing companionship for what it is rather than for any benefits it might bring. As a documentary photographer, my work is driven by a deep curiosity about the everyday and empathy for the human experience. Through my work, I seek to inspire conversations about the world around me and elevate the voices of the unheard. Throughout my practice, I am concerned with the ethical representation of the people I photograph so that they feel safe in front of my lens. I believe that photography has the power to educate, motivate, and empower. My goal as a documentary photographer is to create a visual record of our time that will stand as a testament to the resilience, tenacity, and diversity of the human spirit.
BEHIND THE LENS
VICTOR MWAKAPILA is a Zambian photographer based in Lusaka. He developed a passion for photography at a young age, inspired by his best friend’s father, who was a professional photographer. Victor’s commercial practice covers fashion and documentaries, both in still and moving images. Victor’s work is known for its captivating and emotional storytelling and pushes boundaries in editing and post-production. Victor was a film intern at Multichoice Talent Factory in 2022 and 2023, where he was able to broaden his skills to set design and lighting for film. He worked with US funders PEPFAR, USAID, and ZCCP Kwatu Knowledge for Life on a ‘Stop GBV now ’ national awareness campaign. He also attended the Stories of Kalingalinga 2024 workshop, where he focused on a series called ‘Land of Dreamers,’ which will be published and exhibited in the UK and Zambia.
