By Darren Gilbert

Oatway’s award-winning photograph documented the tragic death of Mozambican migrant, Emmanuel Sithole, in a 2015 xenophobic attack in Alexandra. Oatway’s photos of the attack originally featured in the Sunday Times. media update caught up with him to talk photography, awards and the secret to getting a great shot.

How did you first get into photography?

I was exposed to photography as a child. There was always a camera lying around in the house. My mother used to shoot a lot … family photos, holidays, etc. I only really became enthusiastic about photography when I was at university, though.

Processing and printing film by hand in the darkroom was really a magical process. It got me hooked on photography.

What do you love about photography?

I love that photography gives us an opportunity to sit back and quietly look at the world around us. Humans are so busy rushing around being humans that we don’t always notice each other or places or things.

Photography gives us an opportunity to reflect. I love that my career as a photojournalist has led me to places that I wouldn’t have gone otherwise and has allowed me to meet so many interesting people. I’ve learned so much about people.

You were recently honoured at the CNN Multichoice Africa Journalist Awards. What does the award mean to you, both from a professional and personal point of view?

Winning this award evokes many conflicting feelings. Honour and pride at being recognised for good work, but, at the same time, grief and even guilt. A man died. I wasn’t able to save him. Now I’m being congratulated for that. I’m very happy that the images get another chance at being in the spotlight, though.

We should never forget what happened to Emmanuel Sithole.

Winning an award of this magnitude is surely satisfying for you. Does winning the award affect the way you go about your work?

My attitude to awards has changed as my career has developed over the years. As a young photographer, it was extremely important for me to win awards and be recognised. An award sets you apart from the rest and can enable you to get a better job.

But, sometimes, I think photographers become too obsessed with winning awards. Winning becomes their main motivation – not telling the story fairly and accurately. After all, that’s what photojournalism is – visual storytelling.

What is the secret to taking a great photograph? What goes through your mind while you photograph your subject?

I’m a photojournalist, so I do my best to capture moments and reflect stories that are authentic and truthful. You can’t do this if you don’t have a certain level of empathy or understanding of the people you photograph.

Actually pressing the button can sometimes be the easiest part of the job.

In your opinion, what does it take to be successful as a photographer?

It takes stamina. It’s so easy to convince yourself that you’re no good and drop out. You have to be completely committed … there can be no doubt in your mind that this is what you want to do … what you have to do.

Leave your ego behind you. Photography is not about you; it’s about the people/places/things that you photograph.

For more information, visit www.jamesoatway.com. Alternatively, connect with him on Facebook, Twitter or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of Nina Oatway