From Tailevu to the world: The award-winning Fijian photographer capturing stories from the front line

From his humble roots in Tailevu to becoming an award-winning British Army photographer, Corporal Nacanieli Gadekilodoni Tanuku is inspiring a new generation of Pacific Islanders to dream beyond their horizons.

The British Army corporal has once again put Fiji in the international spotlight after winning both first and second place in the Story category of the British Army Photography Competition, a prestigious contest that attracts talented photographers from across the Army.

For Tanuku, who hails from Vatulawasa, Bau, Tailevu, the achievement is about more than collecting awards

It is an opportunity to showcase Pacific Island talent on the international stage and demonstrate that people from small island communities can compete and succeed in highly specialised and competitive professions.

As the only Fijian currently serving in the British Army Photographer trade, he hopes his journey will inspire young people to pursue opportunities they may never have thought possible.

“This achievement is about much more than myself,” he said.

“To be able to represent Fiji within such a specialised field is something I take great pride in, and I hope it encourages others to pursue opportunities they may never have thought possible.”

He believes it is important for Pacific Islanders, particularly young people, to see examples of success in careers they may never have considered.

The competition's return was eagerly anticipated after a lengthy break caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and funding challenges. When entries reopened, Tanuku seized the opportunity to put years of experience and storytelling skills to the test.

His latest success adds to an already impressive record. In 2021, the Fiji Sun featured him after he was named the British Army's Photographer Portfolio of the Year, a recognition that highlighted his growing reputation behind the lens.

Growing up in Fiji, Tanuku was fascinated by the wider world. Films, magazines and stories fuelled his curiosity about distant places and cultures.

In 2007, he joined the British Army, a decision that would eventually take him across Europe, the Middle East and the Arctic Circle.

After spending 12 years as a Paratrooper with The Parachute Regiment, he sought a new challenge and successfully transferred into the Army Photographer trade.

What began as a hobby with a Nikon camera evolved into a profession dedicated to documenting military life through powerful visual storytelling.

His latest award-winning work focused on often-overlooked aspects of military service. One story followed British Army chefs operating in demanding field conditions, while another documented commanders and officers undertaking convoy planning and navigation training.

The awards also highlight the diversity of opportunities available within modern military service, demonstrating that careers in the Army extend far beyond traditional combat roles.

Proud moment: Corporal Nacanieli Gadekilodoni Tanuku poses with his first and second place awards from the British Army Photography Competition, alongside the image series that earned him the prestigious honours.

Q & A

Tell us about your roots in Fiji

I am originally from Vatulawasa, Bau, Tailevu, with maternal links to Nabulini, Wainibuka, Tailevu.

I come from a proud Fijian family and was fortunate to grow up surrounded by strong values, culture and community, which continue to guide me today wherever I am in the world.

How did it feel to win first and second place?

I feel incredibly honoured and genuinely humbled. To be recognised among so many talented photographers from across the British Army, both professional and amateur, is something I’m very grateful for.

Every entrant brings their own creativity, dedication and passion for storytelling, and I have a great deal of respect for the quality of work produced throughout the competition.

Award-winning storytelling: Images from Corporal Tanuku's winning and runner-up entries in the Story category of the British Army Photography Competition, showcasing the dedication, teamwork and behind-the-scenes realities of military life.

Why did you join the British Army?

I joined the British Army back in 2007 at the age of 24. From a young age, I was fascinated by the world beyond Fiji.

Through films, magazines and stories, I became curious about different countries, cultures and ways of life. I often told myself that one day I would like to see these places with my own eyes rather than just read about them.

Joining the British Army gave me the opportunity to do exactly that. It allowed me to challenge myself, experience different parts of the world and meet people from all walks of life while serving a greater purpose.

How do you reflect on your military journey?

Looking back, I have no regrets about the path I chose. If I had the chance to do it all again, I believe I would make the same decision.

The British Army has given me opportunities and experiences that I could never have imagined as a young boy growing up in Fiji.

I have travelled widely, met incredible people and learned from many different cultures and traditions. It has been a journey of growth, both personally and professionally, and I remain grateful for everything it has taught me.

Honouring a monarch: Corporal Tanuku documents the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, an assignment that placed him at the centre of one of the most significant ceremonial events of recent times

How did your passion for photography begin?

My interest in photography began back in Fiji, where I studied Arts at FIT and later worked in public relations for a short time before pursuing opportunities overseas. I bought my first camera while serving with 3rd Battalion, The Parachute Regiment.

It was a Nikon D5300, and I started taking it with me on deployments and exercises. What began as a personal hobby gradually grew into something much bigger. Over time, I found myself documenting life within the battalion and eventually became the battalion photographer alongside my primary role as a Paratrooper.

What does a typical day look like for an Army photographer?

One of the most rewarding aspects of the role is its variety. No two days are ever quite the same. One day we may be working alongside the Army Air Corps capturing aerial operations, parachute drops or air dispatches.

Another day we might be documenting maritime activities, humanitarian support missions, ceremonial events, overseas exercises or VIP visits.

The role offers a unique opportunity to witness and record many different aspects of military life. At its heart, our job is to tell the stories of the people who serve, and there is never a shortage of stories to be told.

Behind the lens: Corporal Tanuku works in challenging conditions during military assignments, capturing stories through rain, snow and fog as part of his role as a British Army photographer.

Can you tell us about the stories behind the images that won first and second place?

The story that placed second focused on commanders and officers conducting convoy planning and navigation training.

The images followed the process from receiving orders, briefing troops using a map model, and then moving onto the ground to execute the mission.

It was an opportunity to showcase the preparation and decision-making that takes place behind the scenes. The winning story followed British Army chefs operating in the field.

From arriving on location and setting up equipment to preparing and serving meals, it highlighted the dedication and hard work required to run a field kitchen. It was important to me to recognise a group of soldiers whose contributions are often overlooked, despite the vital role they play in supporting everyone else.

Award-winning storytelling: Images from Corporal Tanuku's winning and runner-up entries in the Story category of the British Army Photography Competition, showcasing the dedication, teamwork and behind-the-scenes realities of military life.

Award-winning storytelling: Images from Corporal Tanuku's winning and runner-up entries in the Story category of the British Army Photography Competition, showcasing the dedication, teamwork and behind-the-scenes realities of military life.

Award-winning storytelling: Images from Corporal Tanuku's winning and runner-up entries in the Story category of the British Army Photography Competition, showcasing the dedication, teamwork and behind-the-scenes realities of military life.

What does this achievement mean to you personally?

I feel deeply honoured by the recognition, but being the only Fijian currently serving in this trade makes it even more meaningful. This achievement is about much more than myself.

It reflects the support, values and encouragement I have received from my family, my community and everyone who has helped shape my journey.

To be able to represent Fiji within such a specialised field is something I take great pride in, and I hope it encourages others to pursue opportunities they may never have thought possible.

One of the final photographs taken by Corporal Tanuku of Queen Elizabeth II before her passing, capturing a significant moment in British history.

How important is it for you to represent Fiji and the Pacific on the international stage?

I believe it is very important, particularly for the younger generation who may be considering their own paths in life.

I hope that by sharing my experiences, others can see that opportunities exist beyond what we sometimes imagine for ourselves.

When opportunities arise, it is important to embrace them, work hard and remain committed to your goals. At the same time, I believe it is equally important to stay grounded, remain humble, be grateful for the journey and trust in the guidance that has brought you this far.

What are your goals for the future, both in the Army and as a photographer?

The British Army has given me opportunities that have shaped who I am today, both personally and professionally. Through service, travel, education and life experiences, I have learned lessons that I will carry with me long after my military career ends.

My goal is to continue developing as a photographer and storyteller while making the most of the opportunities that come my way. I remain open to learning, growing and contributing wherever I can.

Award winners.