THE art or practice of taking and processing photographs can be defined by this young and budding self-taught photographer, Mansoor Cave, who is in the habit of upgrading his skills to become the best.

The 26-year-old has made a name for himself through his work in photography. Locally, he is well-known among his peers as the photographer often seen on Main Street, Georgetown, taking portraits of people during the festive season or at events.

Even though he doesn’t possess any formal certification in photography, Cave told Pepperpot Magazine that he is always willing to learn and strives to give customers what they need — quality over quantity — by capturing memories through photos.

He is a resident of Mocha Arcadia, East Bank Demerara, who did not complete his secondary education due to personal setbacks. Cave reported that he was a student of Diamond Secondary School, and while in the Fourth Form, he used to play football. During one of those games, he suffered a broken arm and had to be away from school for months since his arm was in a cast. This injury hampered his success in formal education.

However, all was not lost. Although dejected, Cave rose to the challenge and began exploring new possibilities. In 2018, his aunt, who lives abroad, gifted him an old Nikon camera model.

Cave used it to take photographs — mostly of his family in the yard — and did it for free, just practising at first.

After some time, he realised that he liked it, and his favourite subjects became landscapes, butterflies, flowers, and people.

His fascination with photography deepened, and he upgraded to a Sony point-and-shoot camera, another gift — this time from one of his sisters in 2020.

Cave eventually turned to YouTube and became a self-taught photographer after watching many photography tutorials. He gained confidence after a while, and when he felt he was ready to take on professional work, he embarked on his journey as a photographer.

Today, Cave is the official photographer for Slingerz Football Club and also does freelance photography as a side hustle. He takes photos of players during games and at practice sessions on weekends.

In addition, Cave does both indoor and outdoor photography and photoshoots for events and all occasions. Although he does not yet own a studio, he is working toward achieving that goal.

At times, he has to rent studio space by the hour for indoor photoshoots with customers. Having his own studio at a fixed location would be ideal.

Cave told Pepperpot Magazine that he is hoping to have a spot close to home, in Mocha Arcadia, for his photo studio.

The young man related that when he was just starting out as a photographer, he would go to the seawalls and take instant photographs of people for a reasonable fee. He would do the same when there were activities on Main Street, Georgetown.

During the festive period — from the second week in December up to the first week in January — he sets up a stall along Main Street Avenue to take photos of people.

Being self-employed is a blessing for Cave, who appreciates the flexibility to fulfil his role as a photographer covering various events.

“Although I do not have any form of certification, I would never say or prevent myself from learning. Every day brings a new experience to enhance my skills as a budding photographer who by no means knows it all,” he said.

Cave reported that he currently uses a Sony A7 II digital camera, which is a 2013 model, for his small photography business. He especially likes the features of the camera, which is mirrorless — perfect for him to handle and to deliver professional photography that gains customer approval.

He told Pepperpot Magazine that status in society means nothing when you are not capable of delivering on the job. With that said, he is aiming to be among the best in photography in the near future.

This photographer became well-known for his presence in the community and on social media, particularly on TikTok and Facebook, for posting snippets of his work, which are widely liked.

He gets jobs based on recommendations and has repeat customers who appreciate his service. This week, he will be busy photographing a wedding and has two indoor photoshoots scheduled.

Cave is known for his creativity, personality, and the image of a respectable young photographer who is willing to learn while earning a living.

Photography literally means ‘drawing with light’, derived from the Greek photo, meaning light, and graph, meaning to draw. Photography is the process of recording an image — a photograph — on light-sensitive film or, in the case of digital photography, via a digital, electronic, or magnetic memory.

Locally, we have many photographers — some professionals and others who are advancing with their unique approach and talent behind the lens, just like Cave.