Bjorn Waldegard & Hans Thorszelius - Mohamed Amin

Car 3 Bjorn Waldegard & Hans Thorszelius Mercedes-Benz 450SLC 5.0 CS61 along Kijabe-Naivasha road in Kenya. Kenya’s renowned photojournalist Mohamed Amin, one of his favourite jobs, was the East African Safari Rally. During the five-day, 3,500-mile event, Mo (also known as ‘Six Camera Mo’) and his Camerapix crew would work flat out to deliver on time. Often they slept out in their battered Land Cruiser, miles from the beaten track, in order to claim the best position for filming. Mo covered this gruelling test of endurance for more than 25 years, and his film reports of the rally achieved legendary status. Sometimes in his desire to get as close as possible to the action, he made the news himself. In March 1978 he parked his vehicle next to a flooded track and, together with his new partner, Duncan Willetts, set up his tripod and camera on the roof to capture the cars as they sped past at 80 mph, spewing sheets of water on either side. For Willetts it was a dramatic introduction to his first Safari Rally. Suddenly Japanese driver Yoshio Iwashita arrived on the scene and broadsided out of control. The careering car hurtled off the road, rammed into the Land Cruiser, and pitched Mo and Willetts into a mud-filled ditch. The incident left Mo with a broken wrist, but typically he kept his cameras running throughout to provide the evening television bulletins with some spectacular footage. His professionalism led to Iwashita receiving an anxious phone call from his wife in Tokyo. Not wanting to worry his wife Iwashha had not told her about the crash, but thanks to Mo and Visnews film of the incident had been screened in Japan. Sometimes in his enthusiasm to be first or to get a saleable shot, Mo would stretch the rules.

• Subject Matter: The photograph documents a specific event – the East African Safari Rally – capturing a moment of intense action and showcasing the vehicles navigating challenging terrain.
• Composition: Utilizing a slightly low angle perspective, the image emphasizes the grandeur of the Mercedes-Benz car amidst the rugged landscape, creating a dynamic visual narrative. Diagonal lines guide the eye towards the background, balancing the frame with the presence of spectators.
• Color Palette: Presented in black and white photography, the monochromatic scheme contributes to an atmosphere of drama and timelessness, highlighting textural details and tonal variations.
• Lines & Shapes: The prominent road serves as a diagonal line, directing attention towards the distant horizon and reinforcing the sense of movement. The car’s form contrasts with the jagged rocks and uneven terrain, creating visual interest.
• Textures: Diverse textures—the rough surface of the dirt road, the polished metal of the vehicle, billowing dust clouds—enrich the image's sensory experience and convey a feeling of authenticity.

Lighting: Natural daylight illuminates the scene, casting highlights on the car’s body and creating shadows that deepen the landscape’s depth. This masterful use of light enhances visual impact and contributes to an overall mood of adventure. Historical Context: Captured in 1978 during Mo Amin's extensive coverage of the Safari Rally, this photograph embodies the spirit of journalistic perseverance and dedication—a testament to Amin’s commitment to documenting pivotal moments in African history. The incident involving Yoshio Iwashita underscores the risks inherent in pursuing exceptional images while highlighting the importance of ethical considerations within photojournalism. Symbolic Elements: The dust cloud symbolizes speed, power, and the relentless pursuit of excellence—reflecting Amin’s unwavering focus on capturing decisive action. Spectators represent the human element witnessing this spectacle, adding a dimension of social observation to the artistic composition. Style & Technique: This photograph exemplifies documentary photography, prioritizing truthful representation without embellishment. Filmed during the 1980s using film technology, it showcases meticulous framing and timing—essential elements for achieving optimal visual impact. The resulting print retains a remarkable level of detail and tonal nuance, preserving the essence of the original scene.

• Size: Unknown
• Date: 1980

Artist Information: Mohamed Amin (1943 – 1996) stands as a monumental figure in photojournalism, celebrated for his unflinching documentation of African history and humanitarian crises. His pioneering work established Camerapix Company in 1963 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, marking a deliberate choice to champion journalistic integrity and artistic vision. Notable Artworks: Amin’s portfolio includes iconic images such as “Ethiopian Famine Report,” documenting the devastating consequences of drought and famine; “Idi Amin with Sarah Kyolaba,” capturing a portrait of Ugandan President Idi Amin alongside his wife; and “Mohamed Amin and Dolly Amin with a pair of lion cubs,” showcasing a heartwarming encounter between Amin and his daughter. Further Research: Explore the legacy of Mohamed Amin through extensive archives documenting African wildlife crises and historical events—a testament to his enduring contribution to visual storytelling and cultural preservation. Discover media training programs initiated by The Mohamed Amin Foundation aimed at fostering journalistic excellence and promoting ethical practices within the field.

• Influenced Artists: Michael Buerk – Recognized for his impactful narratives and commitment to conveying complex themes through visual mediums, Buerk’s work serves as an inspiration for Amin's artistic endeavors.