Abdoul-Madjide Seydou, editorial photographer based in Lomé, Togo

Abdoul-Madjide Seydou is a portrait photographer based in Lomé. Passionate about editorial imagery and visual aesthetics, he explores the intersection of fashion, identity, and personal expression.

Through his portraits, he seeks to capture the power of gazes and the depth of emotions, playing with light, colors, and textures. His work, both modern and narrative, stands at the crossroads of art and fashion.

How did you first get into photography?

I started out as a photographer’s assistant, without the passion I have for the craft today. I truly developed a taste for photography when my eyes first encountered the works of great photographers such as Seydou Keita, Irving Penn, and Richard Avedon.

What type(s) of photography do you specialise in?

Portrait and editorial photography are my preferred fields, as I am fascinated by the uniqueness and personalities of my subjects. I also enjoy exploring colours and textures.

Can you share the underlying themes or ideas that drive your photography?

I use my work to communicate through aesthetics, but also to show that beauty can be born from imperfection. Each portrait is a search for light, texture, and attitude, revealing that it is precisely our differences and our rough edges that make an image unique and alive.

What's the one achievement or moment in your photography career that you're most proud of?

One of the highlights of my photography career, and a moment I am particularly proud of, was when I had the opportunity to shoot two collection campaigns for a clothing brand, something I had not anticipated. Around the same time, I was entrusted with covering a wedding where the clients gave me complete creative freedom to fully express my style.

Finally, a friend placed his trust in me by inviting me to collaborate on a commissioned project for an exhibition. That experience strengthened my career choice and further deepened, even solidified, my artistic vision.

What's the biggest challenge you've faced as a photographer, and how did you overcome it?

One of the challenges I faced as a photographer was conducting a shoot under difficult weather conditions. The models were not in their best shape, and on top of that, I had very limited time to meet the project’s expectations.

I overcame this by showing adaptability and creativity, using the weather as an aesthetic asset and playing with the light and atmosphere. I reassured the models despite their fatigue and optimised the time by quickly preparing the angles and settings. This experience taught me how to transform unexpected obstacles into visual opportunities.

If you could collaborate with anyone, (a photographer, brand, or a creative) who would it be and why?

I would say Balenciaga for a contrast between their bold pieces and my editorial approach.

How's the photography and art space in your country: how has it evolved in recent years?

The photographic and artistic landscape in Togo is largely similar to that of other countries, as it gives artists the opportunity to fully thrive in their craft. I would say it is evolving in a positive and encouraging way.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting their photography journey, what would it be?

In this field, perseverance, patience, and consistent dedication to one’s craft are essential keys not to be overlooked.