Born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, Kabelo Thathe is a cinematographer with a strong focus on visual storytelling. He entered the industry in 2007 and has built a career shaped by discipline, observation, and a steady commitment to the craft of filmmaking.

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His interest in film took clearer shape during a year abroad, when he completed his final year of high school in Minnesota, USA. Being away from home gave him time and distance to reflect. A long-standing interest in movies shifted into a clear decision to pursue filmmaking as a profession. His childhood bedroom, filled with film posters, reflected an early desire to move from watching stories to creating them.

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After returning to South Africa, Kabelo studied at AFDA, the African Film and Drama Academy, where he completed a Bachelor of Arts in Motion Picture Medium. In his final year, he also worked as a lecturer, sharing practical knowledge while continuing to develop his own visual judgement behind the camera.

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His feature film debut was Vaya, directed by Akin Omotoso. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and received recognition from both the LA Times and the New York Times. His work has since reached international audiences through platforms such as Netflix and Disney+. He was Director of Photography on Rise, the biopic of NBA player Giannis Antetokounmpo for Disney, and on African Queens for Netflix, produced by Westbrook, founded by Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith. For African Queens, he received a Daytime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Cinematography.

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Kabelo is a member of the South African Society of Cinematographers and continues to work across local and international productions. His films have screened at major festivals including Toronto, Berlin, and the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival.

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His approach to cinematography prioritises clarity, strong composition, and lighting choices that support character and emotion. Whether working on an independent project or a studio production, his focus stays consistent. The image must support the story and remain honest to the moment on screen.