Aham Ibeleme is the Lead Photographer at Aham Ibeleme Photography and the Author of “How I Shot It”, a comprehensive photo guide that teaches photographers step by step how Aham achieved some of his iconic pictures. Sitting with BOP’s Ufana Ishoyor, He recounts how he started photography and his highest points.
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- Kindly Introduce Yourself
My name is Aham Ibeleme. I’m a portrait photographer based in Lagos, Nigeria. I’m married to a beautiful wife and we have two adorable boys.
- How was growing up like?
Growing up was normal just like in any other regular household. I grew up in Benin city, in a family of 6 (3 boys and a girl), and my parents made sure to raise us accordingly. I had a fun childhood to say the least.
- What’s your educational background?
I have B.Sc in Geology from FUTO, Nigeria and an M.Sc in GIS (Geographical Information Systems) from the University of Greenwich, UK.
- How did you start Photography?
Photography for me started when I was in the UK studying for my M.Sc. Like every other tourist/visitor overseas, I bought a camera to document my stay there and I would take it with me everywhere I went. I would take photos of myself, friends, buildings, and everything in between. It wasn’t long before i found myself purchasing camera after camera in the pursuit for the ‘best’ quality images. I think I ran through some 5 different cameras before I arrived at my first DSLR camera, a Canon 550D, and I haven’t looked back since.
- Was it just a hobby or did you from the onset want to take it as a career?
It was a hobby at first, more or less. I only went pro the 3rd year after purchasing my first DSLR.
- What type of Photography do you do?
Portrait photography
- Where/Who do you draw your inspiration from?
Life, family, movies, and the arts to mention a few.
- So far what has been your highest point as a photographer and how is the Business of Photography like?
My highest point would be succeeding in building a sustainable photography business that affords me the wherewithal to provide for my family. The business of photography like any other business has been tough as it has been rewarding. I’m thoroughly enjoying the process.
- What challenges do you face and what steps do you take in overcoming these challenges?
Steady power for one is forever the businessman’s challenge this side of the world and is one that I face daily but we overcome that challenge simply by alternating with petrol generators. The work must continue whichever way!
- Any last words?
Work hard and smile while you’re at it and the world will align for you.
Aham Ibeleme is a Portrait Photographer based out of Lagos, Nigeria. He’s a father and the co-host of the Photographers Hangout. You can connect with him here.
