Adriaan Louw is an SA-born filmmaker and photographer known for his vivid, cinematic style and deep roots in youth culture. He began his career documenting South Africa’s music, skate, and fashion scenes. That approach continues to shape his work today.
His music video work is folkloric in South Africa, having pioneered a signature tone that’s widely referenced and regarded as foundational in Johannesburg’s cinematic archive. He has directed for global artists including Major Lazer, Wizkid, Jess Glynne, Mabel, Black Coffee, and Riky Rick, earning accolades such as MTV Africa’s Music Video of the Year for “Nafukwa.” His commercial clients include Nike, Vans, RVCA, Puma, Vogue, and The Fader.
Adriaan’s work is rhythmic and human centred, blending a sharp sense of music and sound with innovative camera techniques, hypnotic atmospheres, and a tailored documentary realism that makes his voice instantly recognisable.