I’ve known Kahli Brown (just found out his name is Kenneth from this interview so there’s that) for over a year now. James Ikpe introduced us and we found we shared a common love for mobile photography and that has been where we laid the foundation of our relationship.
Kahli is Nigeria’s only Xiaomi Photographer and a little over a year ago, joined the Fujifilm shooters association. Today, he’s under the BOP spotlight and he talks about how it all started and where he’s headed as well as his hopes for the future of the Nigerian imaging industry
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- Kindly Introduce Yourself.
Hi, I’m KENNETH OBINNA MMADUADIZIE popularly known as KAHLI BROWN, creative lead for KAHLI BOWN STUDIOS. I’m a lot of things but to mention a few, I’m a freelance Travel, Documentary, Portrait & Lifestyle Photographer, YouTuber, Tech Bro, and Brand Influencer.
- What was growing up like?
My upbringing was challenging as I lost my dad before I was born, leading me to learn life’s lessons at a young age. While I would have described it as the worst childhood in the past, I now view it with gratitude as those experiences have shaped me into the person I am today.
- What’s your educational background?
Well, I’m a graduate of the University of Jos where I studied General and Applied Psychology.
- How did you get into Photography?
Photography has always been a part of my life, but my journey truly began during my time in university. As someone who deeply admired art and sought ways to express myself creatively, I found myself drawn to photography as a medium. Being unable to paint, I discovered the power of capturing moments through a simple click of a button with my smartphone. It became a way for me to freeze moments and express myself through visuals. This realization sparked my passion, and from there, I shot professionally on my smartphone for a couple of years until I acquired my first camera (FUJIFILM X-T4) during a documentary trip. Immersed in the beauty of different cultures and landscapes, I found joy in capturing those moments. Over the years, I dedicated myself to honing my skills, experimenting with various genres, and refining my artistic vision. Through dedication and continuous learning, I have evolved as a photographer, embracing new techniques and pushing creative boundaries.
- Was it a hobby or did you from the onset set out to build a career in photography?
Honestly, it initially was a personal hobby and a form of self-expression for me. However, as it evolved into my current career, it remains a passion and source of enjoyment. It’s incredibly fulfilling to capture moments and express myself through this art form. The idea of being able to earn a living doing what I love is truly remarkable. Just imagine being paid to do what you love.
- What type of Photography do you do?
When asked about my preferred genre, it’s challenging to narrow it down because I find joy in photographing a wide range of subjects. My work encompasses diverse genres such as travel, documentary, portrait, lifestyle, events, and commercials. I am deeply passionate about capturing the essence of these different realms through my lens. However, my artistic pursuits extend beyond these genres, as I continuously seek new avenues for creative expression.
- Where/Who do you draw your inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from various sources that fuel my creativity. Movies, with their captivating storytelling and visual aesthetics, have a profound impact on my artistic vision. Music also plays a significant role, as it sets the mood and evokes emotions that translate into my photography. Additionally, I find inspiration in my own experiences, whether it’s traveling to new places, immersing myself in different cultures, or simply observing the world around me. Finally, I am constantly inspired by other talented creatives, photographers, and artists who push the boundaries of their craft and ignite my own creative spark.
- So far, what has been your highest point as a Photographer?
As a photographer, I have had several significant milestones that I consider my highest points. One of them is the ability to use storytelling through my photography to solve problems. It brings me immense satisfaction when my work can communicate a powerful message or shed light on important issues.
Another high point for me has been the recognition I have received from brands and individuals whom I admire and look up to. Being acknowledged for my photography feels like a rewarding validation of the hard work and dedication I have put into my craft.
Lastly, one of my greatest achievements as a photographer is the ability to create work that resonates with people. When I receive feedback from viewers who connect with my images on a deep level or find inspiration in them, it is truly fulfilling. Knowing that my photography has touched others and elicited emotions is a humbling and gratifying experience.
Overall, these moments of using storytelling to solve problems, receiving recognition from respected brands and individuals, and connecting with people through my work have been the highest points of my journey as a photographer. They continue to inspire me and drive me to push my creative boundaries further.
- What’s been your experience navigating the Business side of Photography in Nigeria?
Bro! it’s a jungle out here!
Navigating the business side of photography in Nigeria has been an interesting journey. Like any other country, there are both challenges and opportunities unique to the Nigerian photography industry.
One of the challenges I have encountered is the need to educate clients about the value of professional photography and the importance of fair compensation for creative services. It can be a struggle to establish fair pricing and negotiate contracts that reflect the value of our work. However, through consistent communication and showcasing the quality of my portfolio, I have been able to build trust with clients and create mutually beneficial partnerships.
Another aspect of the business side of photography in Nigeria is the need to constantly adapt and stay informed about the industry trends and emerging technologies. It is important to keep up with the latest equipment, software, and marketing strategies to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
Networking and building relationships with other professionals in the industry have also been crucial in navigating the business side of photography in Nigeria. Collaborating with fellow photographers, models, stylists, and other creatives has not only opened doors to new opportunities but also fostered a sense of community and support.
Despite the challenges, there are also numerous opportunities in the Nigerian photography market. The country is rich in cultural diversity, natural landscapes, and vibrant events, providing a wide range of subjects to capture. Additionally, with the rise of social media and e-commerce platforms, there is a growing demand for visually compelling content, creating avenues for photographers to showcase their work and attract clients both locally and internationally.
Overall, navigating the business side of photography in Nigeria requires a combination of adaptability, perseverance, and continuous learning. By understanding the unique dynamics of the market, building strong relationships, and staying attuned to industry trends, photographers can carve out a successful and fulfilling career in Nigeria’s vibrant photography industry.
- What challenges do you face and what steps do you take in overcoming these challenges?
As a photographer, I have encountered several challenges throughout my journey, and I have taken proactive steps to overcome them. Here are some of the common challenges I face and the strategies I employ to address them:
- Market competition: In a saturated photography market, standing out can be a challenge. To overcome this, I focus on developing my unique style and offering a distinct creative perspective. I continually seek inspiration from various sources, experiment with different techniques, and push the boundaries of my creativity to set myself apart from the competition.
Pricing and fair compensation: Educating clients about the value of professional photography and negotiating fair compensation can be an ongoing challenge. To address this, I conduct thorough market research to determine industry-standard pricing. I also communicate the value and benefits of my services to clients, emphasizing the quality, expertise, and unique vision that I bring to their projects.- Technical advancements: Technology is constantly evolving in the photography industry, and keeping up with the latest equipment, software, and techniques can be overwhelming. To stay ahead, I invest time and effort in continuous learning. I attend workshops, webinars, and industry events to stay updated on emerging trends and advancements. I also allocate a portion of my budget for equipment upgrades, ensuring that I have the necessary tools to deliver high-quality work.
- Client communication and expectations: Clear and effective communication with clients is essential for successful collaborations. I make sure to establish open lines of communication from the initial consultation, discussing project goals, timelines, and expectations. I maintain regular contact with clients throughout the process, providing updates and seeking feedback to ensure their vision is realized.
- Time management and workload: Balancing multiple projects and meeting deadlines can be challenging. To overcome this, I utilize project management tools and techniques to prioritize tasks, set realistic timelines, and allocate sufficient time for each project. I also practice effective time management strategies, such as breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps and delegating when necessary.
- Networking and building relationships: Building a strong professional network is crucial for business growth. I actively participate in industry events, workshops, and online communities to connect with fellow photographers, clients, and other creatives. Networking helps me expand my reach, gain referrals, and collaborate on exciting projects.
Pricing and fair compensation: Educating clients about the value of professional photography and negotiating fair compensation can be an ongoing challenge. To address this, I conduct thorough market research to determine industry-standard pricing. I also communicate the value and benefits of my services to clients, emphasizing the quality, expertise, and unique vision that I bring to their projects.
By acknowledging these challenges and implementing proactive strategies, I have been able to navigate the photography industry more effectively. Continuous learning, adaptability, and maintaining a positive mindset have been instrumental in overcoming obstacles and achieving success in my photography career.
- Where do you see the Photography Industry in Nigeria in a couple years?
In the coming years, I envision the photography industry in Nigeria experiencing significant growth and evolution. With the increasing accessibility of technology and the rising popularity of social media, there will be a greater demand for visual content and storytelling.
Additionally, advancements in technology will continue to shape the photography landscape. We can expect to see the integration of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality in photography, opening up new possibilities for innovative and immersive experiences.
- Any last words?
I would advise every creative individual to continue creating with whatever resources they have. You never know who might be observing your work or which of your creations could turn out to be the breakthrough moment. Just keep creating.
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You can connect with Kahli Brown on Social Media here
