One of the first questions I’m often asked is: ‘Where do I stand? Do I have to smile?’ My answer is always the same: You don’t have to perform. In fact, most people don’t look their best when told to smile on command. My role is to provide a calm, relaxing, and occasionally humorous environment where your natural authority can surface on its own.
I’ve learned that the best portraits happen when we stop trying to ‘look professional’ and simply start being present.
My name is Jurgen Banda-Hansmann and have called Cape Town home for nearly three decades, I have a deep understanding of the local business landscape. I help you choose the right environment: whether it is the structured lines of the CBD or the quiet texture of your own office: to ensure your photos match your intent.
Clients often appreciate the punctuality and clear workflow I bring to every project. I believe that respecting your time is the first step in a successful partnership. I handle every session with an organized and professional approach.
My professional journey began with wedding photography, but I gravitated toward the world of corporate events and portraits.
Over the years, I’ve focused on refining the craft of the corporate headshot and portrait session. I quickly realized that most people genuinely dislike being photographed. My approach is based on the belief that the technical setup should be a given: it shouldn’t be the focus of the session.
Instead, the focus is entirely on the person in front of the lens. Whether it is an individual branding session or a high-volume team headshot day, I prioritize creating an environment that is relaxing and supportive. I coach you through body language and posture so that the camera captures your confidence rather than your hesitation.
When it comes to corporate events, my approach focuses on storytelling: capturing the unique narrative of the day, whether it is a high-stakes launch or an industry conference. I ensure we secure the branding shots and group portraits that reflect the specific energy of the event. I can also provide key image highlights while the event is still underway for immediate use on social media and press channels.
Jürgen is a master of his art, and at the same time, lighthearted in the way he engages his client, making everyone feel at ease. It was a pleasure being in his company.
Jonathan Wild, Wild Technologies
He also has a fantastic way of putting people at ease, which really shows in the quality of the photos. […] If you’re looking for someone who can seamlessly blend into your event, deliver high-quality images, and be an absolute pleasure to work with, Jurgen is the one.
Tracy Benjamin, Citywire
He has an aura about him that is so comforting, it brings out the best of people in photos. He clearly has the knowledge and know-how to make your brand shine.
Carina Mitten, LevelUp HR
My fascination with the lens began at age six in Germany. What started as childhood curiosity evolved into a professional pursuit that eventually led to the founding of Jürgen’s Photography in Cape Town in 2007.
What keeps me motivated is the moment a client sees something in the images we created together that they haven’t seen before. It is often a version of themselves they didn’t realize they projected: a particular spark of confidence or a sense of calm that had previously gone unnoticed. Helping people discover that professional essence is what makes this work rewarding.
When I’m not in the studio or on-location, you’ll find me in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town. Running is my opportunity to decompress and realign: a discipline I bring back to my work. I also find that same sense of focus in the kitchen, where I enjoy the creative process of cooking and baking.
