TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF

I am a documentary photographer who explores culture and human stories. I strongly believe that the stories I tell today will become the stories and history that future generations will study. When I’m not working on a project, I spend my time traveling, reading, playing golf or watching documentaries.

HOW DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR CRAFT

It dates back to my university days when my chancellor, Bishop David Oyedepo, spoke about God’s promise to bless the works of our hands. Before that, I didn’t have any specific pursuits, but I always enjoyed taking pictures. Even during my secondary school years, I had a small point-and-shoot camera that I used to document my final moments in school. Photography was the only thing I truly had in my hands, and that’s how I discovered my passion. For me, it wasn’t just about the craft; it was the deep desire to tell stories. I didn’t yet have the terminology, but I knew I wanted to share untold stories and give a voice to the voiceless through my lens. Today, as they say, the rest is history.

WHAT DEFINES A DOCUMENTARY PHOTOGRAPHER

To be honest, many qualities define a documentary photographer, but above all, I would emphasize love, respect, and kindness. Our role as documentary photographers is to tell stories and inform the world about the events occurring around us, creating a future archive of human experiences. It is crucial to remember that, in all these endeavors, one constant remains: the importance of connecting with people. The passport to meaningful stories is rooted in love, respect, and kindness. Always keep in mind that you are on a mission—a mission of change—and that you have been entrusted by God, with your camera, to be the custodian of this time we inhabit.

IN A SERIES OF IMAGES, HOW DO YOU PICK WHICH TO SHARE

I select images based on connection, and my instincts are never wrong. I can shoot 1,000 pictures and only connect deeply with two. This doesn’t mean the others are wasted; rather, it indicates that, at that moment, I lack a connection with them which I archive and at leisure most time I revisit. These visual connections also inspire the captions I write for each image. In every photo I share, there is an extension of my existence.

WHAT WAS YOUR MOST CHALLENGING PROJECT

The most challenging project I have ever undertaken was ‘Giving Back Through Art’ with the hashtag #Feed500StreetChildren. This project taught me that when the cause is good, God will always come through, even when it seems like time is running out. In all honesty, God is never late; His timing is always perfect.

WHAT WAS AN UNEXPECTED IMPACTFUL IMAGE YOU CAPTURED

I honestly don’t know how to best answer this question, as every image I have taken serves its own purpose. While I don’t have a specific order, I can say that God has done so many great things through my Images which mostly I can explain, it happens and I give glory back to him. It’s Important we know Art is spiritual and it takes that deeper connection to do the exceptional.

HOW DO YOU FEEL YOUR SOCIETY AFFECTS YOUR CRAFT

The society to my craft is a blessing to be honest, because every image I have created is revolves around them.

WHAT’S THE MOST REWARDING PART OF WHAT YOU DO

Seeing my subjects smile and providing solutions to the unpleasant conditions I encounter is incredibly rewarding. One significant project I embarked on in 2019 was in a community where lepers reside. Since then, the primary school in that community has been tuition-free, thanks to the support of my family and friends. We take care of the children’s needs, including uniforms, sandals, and school supplies. This year marks six years of this initiative, and God has never let us down. My heart fills with joy when I hear that more students are enrolling in the school—children whose parents previously couldn’t afford the tuition. Now, parents willingly bring their children, knowing that the financial burden is no longer a concern.

WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU WANT TO PROMOTE WITH YOUR CRAFT

Your story is my inspiration. To every creative out there, the best time to start is now. Always remember that you are on a mission, and your assignment is to make the world a better place for future generations by spreading love, respect, and kindness through what you do.