I got into photography a while back. I started by learning from a couple of my friends and experts in the fashion industry who were photographers. Prior to that time, I was a graphic designer for years so getting myself familiarized with editing pictures was pretty fast, however the complicated part for me was getting the camera.
I officially started as a photographer in 2014. I major in portrait /fashion photography; basically anything that can be done in the studio. I truly love studio work because it is more controlled.
However I avoid event photography or shoots that require me to stand for hours at a time because of my legs. (I had polio as a baby, but it was treated before it could spread)
What Inspired Your Journey?
I got into the photography industry because of the resources it provided. I remember being in a tight situation and needed to find something to earn more. I had a job but it wasn’t enough. I saw what my peers were making, and I hadn’t made that type of money before, so I joined the photography industry, as it wasn’t farfetched from what I was currently doing back then (graphic designs). Funny enough, there was no prior passion to it, and I respect everyone who starts with a passion, because it’s absolutely great; but mine was strictly business. It came out from me wanting to do more for myself and realizing it’s something I’ll be really good at and the more I put my effort in, the more it came natural. You really don’t know what you’re truly gifted at unless you try.
Would You Say The Nigerian Industry Pays Photographers Well, Since You Got Into The Industry Because of The Resources In It?
I’d say it depends on the city where one is located. In major cities like Lagos and Abuja, the commercial industry is very relevant so you’d find people investing in Art. However in small towns, there’s very little payment, in comparison to major cities where the things are way more ahead and the value people place on “Art” is great because of the industry, It all falls back to value.
As A Photographer, What Is Your Creative Process Like?
My creative process is based on research. I go through a lot of photos everyday to make sure I have the inspiration saved for things I want to do. I get bits of inspiration from different creations and then create something unique.
My process is based on what I see as well. For instance I can’t look at models too much when I have a photoshoot for a family portrait. So I constantly have to look at different ideas because I work with different people.
Kindly Tell Us About Your Journey So Far In The Industry
My journey so far has been really good. Probably one of the lucky few that has gotten to where I am with the amount of time invested. My journey involved a lot of people liking me as a person as well as connecting and trying to get me the best. This kind act has put me in a place where I get a lot of referrals which reduces the pitching of ideas and looking for clients.
Luckily my work speaks for itself and has given me the opportunity to work with various people, ranging from celebrities, people of influence, and to people who just need good pictures of themselves.
The fashion industry has also been one of my major clientele. However I plan to reduce my engagement in fashion shoots because I know fashion as a business model is related to the struggles they have to go through for content creation.
What Is Your Opinion Regarding The Use of Phones In Replacement For Cameras?
I believe strongly in evolving! As much as I love cameras, I have realized that people relate more to pictures taken with a phone than a camera because they believe less work has been done with it. So I try my best to incorporate the new and trendy look into my work, and as much as it might affect the business as people can now get the work done with their phones, I make good use of what is in trend because phones are a huge part of the future. So we need to evolve and incorporate content with phones as well. Thus, my studio is an open space where people can come in to create content with a special feel.
What Is Your Advice To Aspiring Photographers Looking To Get Into The Industry?
I get asked this question a couple of times and what I say is; it might not be easy but find a safety net, something stable. In other countries, there is always something to be done to make stable cash, however that option is not always here for us because of employment issues. Therefore, it is very important to get you something that pays the bills.
Art does not always kick start successfully, it takes a while before you start seeing results, so it is important to have something that you do at the side. I did something similar, I was employed with a company while still learning photography, I still had my safety net and I only resigned when I knew my passion would be sustainable. I feel like people should not downplay the role of money in life. Whatever your outlook on life is, money still controls what you eat, wear and it’s a basic necessity so it’s important to have it. The second thing is to try not to put pressure on yourself. Although when I started, my rise was pretty fast because I was already into graphic design for about 7 years so that was similar to what I ventured into. However, you must understand your niche and avoid putting pressure on yourself.
Creatively always push yourself, however when it comes to the result, take it easy on yourself and take things carefully. Lastly, avoid too many people criticizing your work.
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