Why did you choose the title, Gangst*r?

This project was named Gangst*r because I wanted to portray the subjects in a fashionable and glamorous perspective. Having worked extensively as a fashion photographer, I felt that incorporating this perspective would be suitably unexpected. I was heavily criticized for this, particularly by the people of the Cape Flats. It’s a difficult criticism to respond to. I understand where it comes from – despite the prevalence of gangsterism, most of the Cape Flats remain its victims. The images seen in Gangst*r reflect only a point of view. I believe that it is a relevant perspective, because in many ways the gangsters like to see themselves as glamorous, but it is only one of the many possible perspectives. As Richard Avedon once said, “All photographs are accurate. None of them is the truth.”

What would you like to work on next?

I’m always working on new projects as it is the only way to improve. I just finished directing my 1st short film. It was such an incredible experience. I’m also working on a project in New York, around the theme of shooting 24 people in 24 hours–I have always loved portrait photography. I’m fascinated with people’s faces. I find just about everything about a face incredible.