About

There’s something fitting about a surname that carries the word "photo" in it. Long before he picked up a camera, Raphadu was already drawn to framing the world around him.

Based in Cape Town and raised in Johannesburg, Maphoto is a South African director whose work sits at the intersection of culture, emotion, and cinematic storytelling. Through psychologically raw narratives and dynamic imagery, his work aims to build bridges of understanding and empathy between people and brands that share a common message.

Fresh off his win at LeBook’s 2026 Emerging Talent Awards in Paris, where he took home the Content & Talent Award, Raphadu is recognised amongst a new wave of global talents.

Currently represented by Eyeforce, he has directed campaigns for brands and platforms including VICE, Adidas, Extreme Energy and the European Union.

Maphoto is an International Emmy Award winner (2020) for the short film "Dear Peace", a DC100 cohort member, and a recipient of two IDIDTHAT Craft Mentions. In 2025 he was also featured on GQ South Africa’s Young & Gifted series.

His approach is grounded in listening, observation, and connection. By immersing himself in the people & places he films, he finds inspiration from real moments that feel natural & deeply human.

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General Enquiries: raphadu.maphoto@eyeforce.co.za

Bookings (Agent) - Coco Seignette: cooc@eyeforce.nl

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