Blessing Isaac Afolabi owns Blessmas Media, a photography studio located at Fate Tanke, Ilorin, Kwara State. In this interview, the accounting graduate from the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, Oyo State, who also holds a masters degree in Human Resource, talks about his accidental journey to photography and why he would prefer it to banking, among other issues of interest.
Blessing Isaac Afolabi owns Blessmas Media, a photography studio located at Fate Tanke, Ilorin, Kwara State. In this interview, the accounting graduate from the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, Oyo State, who also holds a masters degree in Human Resource, talks about his accidental journey to photography and why he would prefer it to banking, among other issues of interest.
What is an accountant doing in photography?
I have always had passion for photography, but in 2010, after completing my diploma at the Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State, I went for my Industrial Training (IT) at the Audit Unit of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso. My passion for pictures grew and I used to take pictures with my phone. I also take great pictures of the staff with their phones and they will request me to do the printing. That was how I kept doing it until I decided to learn it in 2013. I love the job and I am doing so well in it till date.
How was it when you started?
When I started, it was fun and easy because some staff of LAUTECH patronized me. Later, when I got employed in the defunct Skye Bank, I still continued. Bankers love pictures because they hardly go outside for parties. So, they ‘dress to kill’ and we take their images there. Hence, while I worked in the bank, I made money from photography as a side hustle.
How was the transition for you?
It was seamless because of the passion. The pulling force was quite amazing. Just like photography has transformed from analogue to digital, there is always possibility of change in life and it’s not just avoidable. We need to embrace change, develop ourselves, take up challenges and move forward.
Who would you describe as your role model(s)?
When I started, my first boss was Rex Photography in Ogbomoso – a family friend who is like a father to me, and I owe him a lot. Later, as more creative people came into the field, I now also fancy creative thinkers like Amazing Clef, Tolani Alli, TY Bello, Big H, Baba Kelechi Amadi and others. It’s natural for one to develop himself and look higher to see those doing far better than him in any chosen profession.
How has the challenge been so far?
The basic challenge in photography is capital. Now, with innovation, new and better gadgets are being produced. Although we work with whatever we have and get the best result, but it is better with the relevant digital gadgets which are quite expensive. One needs to constantly challenge himself by going through other photographers work to get ideas and widens our creative horizon. Photography is one of the jobs that cannot go into extinction. Memories last forever, records need to be taken and events need to be documented. But there is the need to stay strategic and updated in the business or risk being forgotten.
How lucrative is the business of photography?
Photography is lucrative, although competitive. One’s output will determine how marketable he/she is. Packaging and branding go a long way to determine those who will be attracted to him. It’s just like the cliché ‘the way you dress is the way you will be addressed’.
Have you had any bad experience?
Well, I create a standard for myself and I don’t work for clients who devalue photography or photographers. This saves me from all sorts of nasty experiences.
How would you want to be remembered in this profession?
I see myself as one of the best photographers in Nigeria, Africa and the world in not too distinct time and this is achievable. Photography is worth doing and sustainable too. The bottom line is to get the right clients, links and networks, then you’re good to go. Taking beautiful pictures get better every day and each comes with a lot of experience. Now, our clientele is growing and we are getting referrals upon referrals. It’s been an amazing journey. Agreed, there have been challenges and hiccups here and there but they have been met with amazing passion, zeal and determination to succeed and create a niche for my brand. We shall get there.
As one who has experienced banking and photography at professional levels, which one would you prefer?
I would prefer to be a photographer than a banker. I agree people would think otherwise and believe banking is more lucrative than photography, but that is not the case for me. Banking job is full of uncertainties and less security but in photography, the job is more secured and there are more opportunities in photography than for a banker. You have more time to yourself which you can translate into highly productive ventures.
What does it take to start a photography business?
It takes capital to purchase equipment like camera, light, backdrops and other gadgets and securing an appealing office among others. One has to have knowledge of the business as well. Also, it is important knowing the kind of photography you’re going into whether it is still, event or documentary photography. This will also determine what and what is needed.
What inspires your photos?
I think fast immediately I see my subject and quickly reason what mood is best for a picture, what location is suitable for an outfit etc. but shooting nature inspires me a lot.
What has been your greatest moment(s) in photography?
When I’m on outdoor with models or out for documentary. I always enjoy the moments.
How have you been able to balance your business and the home?
Business is what helps sustain a happy home. If one can’t bring food to the table, there might be issues at the home front. But it is important we balance it.
If you are given the choice to change one thing about photography business, what would that be?
It is about the perception out there. Many people out there see photography as something irrelevant. For instance, when planning a wedding or event, they prefer to pay huge for hotels, event centres and feeding but insist they can’t afford just N200, 000 for a photographer. Photographers are the people who will document the memories of such event or ceremonies. Such mentality must change, we must appreciate photographers more.
What do you have to say to other photographers?
In everything we do, we must be focused and determined and believe that tough times never last, only tough people do. And for those who have the money to set up the business but lack the knowledge, I would say employing professionals may work but with proper monitoring. Even at that, trust is key because you don’t know the intention of the people you employed. It is not the best idea to me. In such cases, there should be a structure. Someone will oversee the business, and there will be time-to-time examination and proper accountability.
