Abel Alemseged: Addis Ababa-based portrait & street photographer documenting human connection & everyday life | 54Ruum Spotlight

Abel Alemseged is an Ethiopian portrait, street, and event photographer based in Addis Ababa, with over four years of hands-on experience documenting people, culture, and everyday life.

His photographic journey began with a mobile phone, a foundation that shaped his strong sense of composition, observation, and storytelling.

Deeply influenced by the streets of Addis Ababa, Abel’s work centres on real human connections — capturing authentic expressions, subtle emotions, and meaningful moments.

Through community photowalks and creative collaborations, he transitioned into digital photography, refining his approach to light, framing, and narrative depth.

Abel’s photography reflects a commitment to honest visual storytelling, blending cultural identity with contemporary perspectives. Whether documenting large-scale national events or intimate portraits, his work creates images that feel genuine, relatable, and emotionally resonant.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

I began my photography journey using a mobile phone, which strongly shaped my understanding of composition, framing, and storytelling. Walking the streets of Addis Ababa and photographing real people has deeply influenced my perspective.

How did you first get into photography?

I first got into photography by taking photos with my phone. Over time, this helped me develop a strong sense of composition and observation. A turning point came when I started photographing people I met on Instagram and joined street photowalks in Addis Ababa organised by the founder of Pose Ed (Eden).

These photowalks allowed me to meet different people and practise regularly. Another significant influence was my friend Girum, whom I met during one of these photowalks. He generously allowed me to use his camera, and through his support, I learned more about digital cameras, lighting, framing, and different photography genres.

What type(s) of photography do you specialise in, and why did you choose this niche?

I specialise in portrait and event photography, with a strong foundation in street photography. I chose these niches because I enjoy capturing real people, emotions, and meaningful moments.

Street photography taught me how to observe light, movement, and storytelling, while portrait photography allowed me to connect more deeply with individuals.

Event photography helped me develop discipline and technical consistency.

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

The main themes that drive my photography are human connection, culture, and everyday life.

I focus on telling honest stories through people’s expressions, environments, and moments. Whether I am photographing a street scene, a portrait, or a significant event, my goal is to create images that feel real and relatable, allowing viewers to emotionally connect with the subject and the story behind the photo.

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

One of the moments I am most proud of is photographing major national events, notably the Great Ethiopian Run, for two consecutive years. Being trusted to document such a significant and meaningful event, along with other cultural and religious festivals like Ashenda in Mekelle and various community events, confirmed my growth and dedication as a photographer.

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

The biggest challenge I have faced is not owning my own camera. For large projects, I often have to rent equipment, which can be limiting.

Despite this, I chose to continue and I focused on learning, practising, and accepting opportunities with the tools at my disposal.

This experience taught me patience, adaptability, and the importance of skill over equipment. My goal is to own my own camera in the future and continue growing, God willing.

If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be and why?

I would love to collaborate with Ethiopian photographers Aron Simeneh, Adane Firde, Aida Muluneh, and Aziz Ahmed (Ethiopian Wildlife) because of their strong storytelling, discipline, and impact in photography, both locally and internationally. I admire how they represent Ethiopia through powerful visual narratives.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

54Ruum is a digital platform and community dedicated to showcasing and celebrating photography across the African continent. Its name reflects its mission to represent all 54 African nations through a visual lens.

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

The photography and art space in Ethiopia has grown significantly in recent years. More young creatives are using photography to tell stories about culture, daily life, and social realities.

Social media and community initiatives, such as photowalks, have helped photographers connect, learn, and gain visibility. There is still room for more support and global exposure, but the growth and creative energy are robust.

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

Start by taking a lot of photos with whatever you have, even if it is just a phone. Practise consistently, observe light and composition, and do not wait for perfect equipment. You will learn, grow, and improve through experience, and your vision will change over time.