Guided by the mantra “Don’t rush it, just enjoy nature,” David approaches photography with patience and intentionality, allowing his subjects to tell their own stories. His passion for exploration and storytelling extends beyond the lens, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the beauty hidden in everyday life.
In this interview, we dive into David Joseph’s artistic journey, his approach to capturing nature and urban landscapes, and how his philosophy shapes his creative process. Join us as he shares insights on the power of observation, the essence of storytelling, and the artistry of slowing down to truly see the world.
- ‘TO START, CAN YOU INTRODUCE YOURSELF AND SHARE A BIT ABOUT WHO YOU ARE AND WHAT DRIVES YOU AS A PHOTOGRAPHER?
I’m David Joseph (ABCDee David), a young Nigerian with a deep love for art and creativity. I’m an award-winning macro-wildlife photographer and, most recently, a street photographer!
- HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY STYLE, AND HOW IT EVOLVED OVER TIME?
I think I maintain a simple and natural style when it comes to photography, and it has stayed that way for a long time. However, I’m very focused on excellence and quality.
- MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY REQUIRES EXTREME PRECISION. HOW DO YOU ACHIEVE SHARPNESS AND DETAILS?
Nailing the focus, using the right aperture, and sometimes focus stacking is how I achieve sharpness and details in macro
- HOW DO YOU MANAGE LIGHTING IN MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY, ESPECIALLY WITH SUBJECTS THAT REFLECT LIGHT DIFFERENTLY?
I shoot with a flash (Godox V350o) and a diffuser (the Cygnustech Diffuser, made by my Australian friend Brendan, @cygnustech on Instagram). The diffuser softens and spreads the light, giving it a natural appearance.
- IN NIGERIA, ACCESS TO SPECIALIZED MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR IS LIMITED. HOW DO YOU WORK AROUND EQUIPMENT CHALLENGES?
That’s right. It’s tough for Nigerians, especially since macro photography doesn’t pay. I started macro photography with just my phone, so while professional equipment is expensive, the entry cost into macro photography is almost nothing, as long as you love it.
- FINDING COMPELLING MACRO SUBJECTS REQUIRES PATIENCE. WHAT’S YOUR PROCESS FOR DISCOVERING INTERESTING TINY WORLDS AROUND YOU?
In one sentence: “Don’t rush it; just enjoy nature”.
- DO YOU THINK MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY HAS COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL IN AFRICA? IF SO, WHAT ARE SOME UNTAPPED OPPORTUNITIES?
“Yes and no. As for the “yes”, it will take a while. When more people are able to afford life’s necessities, the chances will start to increase, just being honest.
- HOW DO YOU THINK MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY CAN GROW IN NIGERIA, AND WHAT CAN BE DONE TO CREATE MORE AWARENESS?
Similar to point above, when things improve in Nigeria, it will create an opportunity for macro photography to grow in the country.
IF SOMEONE HAS ONLY A BASIC CAMERA OR SMARTPHONE, CAN THEY STILL TRY MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY? WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO START?
Yes, I started with my phone and captured excellent shots that I still love to this day. But it’s not just about the gear; it’s about the mindset. Do you love it? Do you love it enough to stick with it through rain, sunshine, and storms? Loving nature first is the best way to get into macro photography.
- WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU, ANY PLANS TO TEACH, EXHIBIT OR EXPLORE NEW TECHNIQUES
Sure, I always think about that. But I don’t consider them a top priority, nor am I rushing it. When the time is right, it will happen on its own.
- IF YOU COULD GIVE JUST ONE PIECE OF ADVICE TO PHOTOGRAPHERS EXPLORING MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
“It’s a marathon, not a sprint”.
To know and see more works of David Joseph check him out on Instagram @ abcdee_david
