Mulikat Onipede Lawal is a female photographer with a difference. She is the lead photographer at Gleam Studios, Abuja. In this interview with Femi Akeusola, the graduate of Geology revealed her journey into photography, the challenges involved among other topics.
Kindly introduce yourself
My name is Mulikat Onipede Lawal. I am an entrepreneur, a lifestyle photographer and mum to 3 amazing Kids. Owner and Lead Photographer Gleam Studios Jabi, Abuja.
How was growing up like and tell us about your educational background
Growing up was very peaceful and protective. I am the third from the family of 5. I studied BSc. Geology from the famous Ahmadu Bello University Zarià. I was born and bred in Zaria.
So How did you fall in love with photography and when did you decide to take it from an hobby to a profession?
Photography is practically an off shoot of my course of study back in the university. As a Geology Student, we spent quite a number of time on field trips and one of our major reporting tool is a camera. I didn’t only document the field trip for the sake of getting the needed information to report, I equally spent time capturing friends and memorable activities. On return, I print those other pictures and either share or sell to friends. It was always very funny and interesting for me. That when ever my camera developed a fault, I become restless. After graduating in 2007, I completed my NYSC and secured a job with Zain Nigeria now Airtel as a customer care officer. I worked for about 2 years but later resigned as I was married and pregnant and couldn’t cope with the night shifts. Luckily there was an opening for Customer Care positions at one of Abujas leading photography firm and the working hours was okay, so I opted for that. Being in that environment, my passion was rekindled as I couldn’t take my eyes off the cameras, And I started having growing passion as the days went by. After a while, I decided to Manage another studio in capacity as studio manager and there I got a wealth of experience in studio handling, photography and props, lights, staffing and a whole lot more. My husband noticed my passion, and how effective I managed the new role. He encouraged me to go for professional training and start off on my own. But since purchasing all the needed equipments was very expensive, I was reluctant. But he kept urging me especially after seeing some of the pictures of clients I had captured. He knew I was very good with the camera and never stopped encouraging me. Well, all thanks to God Almighty and my loving and supportive husband. Here we are today!
Awww.. nice. Where do you draw your inspiration from? And what type of photography do you do?
From everyday lifestyle. Sometimes when I am driving on a busy road, and I look back from my side mirror and see the long lengths of cars on the street, or when I see someone dressed up in a particular outfit or costume, sometimes from new born babies sleeping peacefully or even from an about to be bride; the anxiety and joy…..,all these gives me inspiration s to what and when and how to channel my creativity. But to be honest, I get inspiration from any special moment in life. And that is why I am a LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHER
Any photographer or photographers you look up to?
Yes, TY Bello is actually my role model. I love the fact that despite being a female she has been able to break all barriers to become one of Nigeria’s best. Closer to me here in Abuja, I am really proud of Bighstudios and Abdulqudus of eyesofinsanity. I really like their work and respect them a lot.
So far what has been your highest point as a photographer?
I am privileged to have been called to Photograph the former FCT Minister and his entire family on a number of occasions. I was also the official photographer for the Kamu traditional wedding for the present Governor of Kaduna State. My studio also handles all photography affairs for King’s court Academy, Laurels Bay School and Gilgate Academy. I have also worked closely with senior directors in the Civil Service as well as Nigerian Air force. And yes, all these moments were really honorary for me.
What challenges do you think photographers in Nigeria face? Also what challenges do female photographers face?
One of the major challenges I think photographers encounter is that typical Nigerian mentality that makes it think that most photographers are either school drop outs or didn’t go to school at all. Sometimes when you are working on a shoot with a family, a child from the family is interested in what you are doing, you hear the parents saying Ha my son is going to be a doctor o. Making it look like we didn’t see the walls of a classroom. Another major challenge is people, friends, family wanting free sessions. You hear things like, ‘Is it not just to snap me and give me all the soft copies? As a female photographer, I think the major challenge is just that of stereotyping. Sometimes when people come to my studio and I am about to Photograph them you hear things like ‘is it a lady that is the photographer???’ Or is it when you meet with other male photographers during an event and they try to push you aside, feeling intimidated that a woman is working at pa with them???? It’s really an issue.
Thank you so much for your time. Any last words? Plus how can people reach you? Website and of course social media?
Thank you very much for listening. Even though we haven’t met I feel you are a very nice and amazing person.
Awww I appreciate the kind words
Phone: 08050702951 Website: click here
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn: Mulikat Onipede Lawal.
