Anders Kullang & Bruno Berglund – Mohamed Amin: A Pioneer of African Photojournalism

Car 4 Anders Kullang & Bruno Berglund Opel Ascona 400 CS63 along Hells Gate-Elementaita 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 centers around the East African Safari Rally, specifically focusing on the Opel Ascona 400 CS63 driven by Anders Kullang and Bruno Berglund. It captures a pivotal moment during the event—a collision between the car and Yoshio Iwashita’s vehicle amidst challenging muddy conditions.
• Composition: Dynamic framing dominates the image, utilizing a prominent diagonal line created by the track to draw the viewer's eye across the scene. The positioning of the cars and the placement of onlookers contribute to a sense of scale and context.
• Color Palette: Presented in monochrome—black and white—the photograph employs tonal contrast effectively. Deep blacks represent the mud, while lighter shades depict the car’s body and the figures observing the rally.
• Technique & Materials: Shot with film photography equipment, the image prioritizes capturing reality without artistic embellishment. The meticulous attention to detail—texture, lighting, perspective—reflects a commitment to documentary precision.

Historical Context: This photograph encapsulates the spirit of the East African Safari Rally in 1981, an event celebrated for its adventurous nature and its significance as a test of endurance. Mohamed Amin’s enduring legacy stems from his pioneering role in documenting Africa's history—particularly humanitarian crises—with unwavering dedication. His film reports solidified his reputation as “Six Camera Mo,” cementing his place among the most influential photojournalists of his time. Symbolic Elements: The muddy terrain symbolizes the difficulties faced by participants during the rally, highlighting both physical challenges and logistical hurdles. Simultaneously, the image conveys a sense of excitement and danger—a visceral portrayal of motorsport action. Furthermore, Mo’s persistent pursuit of optimal photographic angles underscores his commitment to capturing the essence of the event. Emotional Impact: The photograph evokes feelings of exhilaration and resilience. It serves as a testament to human perseverance amidst adversity—a captivating glimpse into a moment of unforgettable drama. Viewing this artwork inspires contemplation on courage, determination, and the power of visual storytelling.