With the Corona Virus having most of Nigeria on Shut down, We got together (virtually of course, social distancing is no joke) with Documentary Photographer and Cinematographer, Uche Nelson O. to discuss his journey into photography and his dream for the Nigerian photography industry.
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- Kindly Introduce Yourself
My name is Uche Nelson Oriaku, and I’m a photographer from Isialangwa Local government area of Abia State, Nigeria.
- How was growing up like?
For me, I didn’t have a great childhood, I couldn’t have access to a lot of things and as an adverse effect grew up while still a child but I guess I’d say I’m making up for lost play and enjoying being an adult child.
- What’s your educational background?
I had my primary and Secondary education in Port Harcourt, Rivers state and I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication from the University. Whilst still in my first year in the University, I knew we would study photography as a course so I bought a compact Nikon camera for about 2000 naira from a friend in Lagos and started practicing and learning to take pictures which was great because I might have sucked academically but I was great at photography and my lecturers noticed.
- How did you start Photography?
Photography was first a hobby which has progressed into a career over time. I never planned on taking this career route but so far, the journey has been gratifying.
- What type of Photography do you do?
I do Documentary and Events Photography.
- Where/Who do you draw your inspiration from?
Inspiration comes from everywhere. Daily life holds more content than any one person can exhaust and I tap into that inspiration stream and draw out content. Also, Former Nikon Ambassador Uche James Iroha inspires me a lot.
- So far what has been your highest point as a photographer and how is the Business of Photography like?
My highest point as a photographer, I don’t know but the business of photography is another course on its own. People need to be sat and taught the Business of Photography.
- What challenges do you face and what steps do you take in overcoming these challenges?
Every day on the field is a new challenge and a different experience hence the constant steps I’ve put in place to overcoming these challenges are; Setting priorities right, planning ahead and setting possible contingencies should incase things go wrong.
Also, I’m trying understanding the business is business strategy and grow myself not just as a photographer but also a business person.
- In the Coming Years, where do you see the photography in Nigeria?
Photography will be at its peak in Nigeria. This is because people are becoming aware of the business of photography and the vast potential in the imaging industry.
- Any last words?
Knowledge shouldn’t always end at our bus stop. As we learn, we should teach others.
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Uche Nelson Oriaku is the leader at UNO Studios. You can connect with him on Instagram by clicking here.
