Mike Kirkland & Dave Haworth - Mohamed Amin

Car 22 Mike Kirkland & Dave Haworth Datsun Violet 710 CS21 along Kabarnet-Kipkorian 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 image encapsulates the exhilarating spirit of motorsport—specifically, the East African Safari Rally—capturing a pivotal moment of triumph and camaraderie amidst the challenging landscape of 1978 Kenya.
• Composition: Dynamic framing dominates the scene, centering on Mike Kirkland and Dave Haworth perched atop their Datsun Violet 710 vehicle. The background incorporates strategic signage (Omega, Kenya Airways), a prominent KICC building, and a vibrant crowd of spectators—all contributing to a rich contextual tapestry that conveys depth and immediacy.
• Color Palette: Presented in monochrome, the photograph leverages the tonal range of black and white photography to heighten visual impact. Shades vary from deep blacks to brilliant whites, skillfully highlighting key elements and fostering an atmosphere of timeless elegance.

Technique & Materials: The artwork’s creation relied on traditional photographic methods—specifically, utilizing film—resulting in exceptional detail and nuanced tonal variations. Careful consideration was given to exposure settings to ensure optimal illumination while preserving subtle shadows, demonstrating a mastery of photographic technique. Historical Context: Mohamed Amin's involvement in documenting the Safari Rally cemented his legacy as one of Africa’s foremost photojournalists. His relentless pursuit of compelling visuals—often undertaken under arduous conditions—established him as an icon of journalistic integrity and artistic vision. The incident with Yoshio Iwashita serves as a poignant reminder of the risks inherent in pursuing excellence within challenging environments, adding layers of narrative depth to the image.

• Lighting: Natural daylight illuminates the scene, casting shadows that underscore the drama and intensity of the moment.
• Perspective & Depth: The photograph employs perspective to create a sense of spatial realism—objects in the background recede into distance, reinforcing the impression of grandeur and conveying the scale of the Safari Rally event.

Symbolic/Emotional Elements: Beyond its visual representation, the artwork evokes profound emotions—primarily triumph, solidarity, and nostalgia for a bygone era. It embodies a frozen snapshot of history, resonating with viewers who appreciate the energy and passion associated with motorsport and celebrating the enduring spirit of adventure. Style & Medium: The photograph adheres to documentary style, faithfully portraying reality without embellishment—a testament to Amin’s unwavering commitment to journalistic truthfulness. Film photography ensures exceptional image quality and tonal richness, reflecting a dedication to artistic excellence.