Bornaking Photography: Trusted name behind the lens
staff writer | Monday June 1, 2026 06:00
Founded by photographer Tafadzwa Nazare, the studio has evolved from a small photography outfit into a fully fledged multimedia production house that works across diplomatic, corporate, cultural, and private spaces, both locally and across the region.
Reflecting on the 18-year journey, Nazare attributes Bornaking Photography's growth to hard work, continuous learning, and an unwavering commitment to perfection.
“Consistency and learning from other industry players has played a big role in our growth. I have always believed in pushing myself to deliver the best possible work,” he says.
Bornaking Photography first built its reputation in Botswana’s entertainment industry, becoming the go-to studio for artists seeking strong promotional images. In those early years, the studio worked with some of the country’s popular performers, including Vee Mampeezy, Brando and Robbie Rob.
Through its work with musicians and entertainers, the studio gained visibility and credibility, helping to shape the visual identities of many artists at a time when professional photography was becoming increasingly important in the entertainment industry.
The quality and consistency of Bornaking’s work soon attracted interest from the corporate sector. Companies began commissioning the studio for photography and videography assignments at corporate events, conferences and branding projects.
Over the years, the studio has also collaborated with several creatives and content platforms within the lifestyle and media space, including fashion personalities Kagiso De Klerk, Jessy Molefe and Natasha Proctor, as well as contributing visual production work to platforms such as The 20th Avenue Podcast.
This exposure eventually opened doors within diplomatic circles, where the studio has also been commissioned to undertake various assignments over the years.
Today, Bornaking Photography operates across a broad range of projects including diplomatic engagements, corporate functions, pageantry, exhibitions and private bookings. The studio has also expanded its services significantly, moving beyond still photography into multimedia production.
A major milestone for the studio came recently when it was commissioned to work on a documentary that aired on CNBC Africa. The project marked a significant step in Bornaking’s evolution as it continues to grow its footprint in documentary storytelling and video production.
Nazare says the shift into multimedia work reflects the changing nature of the creative industry, where visual storytelling increasingly spans multiple platforms and formats.
Looking back on the past 18 years, he believes Botswana’s photography industry has matured considerably and continues to produce talented creatives capable of competing regionally.
However, he cautions that photographers must remain adaptable, particularly in an era where technology and artificial intelligence are transforming creative production.
He encourages young photographers to invest time in understanding camera operation, lighting techniques, and editing software to stay competitive.
Over the years, Bornaking Photography has also served as a mentor in the industry, training and guiding several photographers and videographers who have since built successful careers of their own.
For Nazare, seeing others grow within the industry is just as rewarding as building his own brand. As Bornaking Photography continues its journey, the studio remains committed to innovation, storytelling and nurturing the next generation of visual creatives while maintaining the high standards that have defined its work for nearly two decades.