Aquilas Akiyo, fashion editorial photographer based in Dakar, Senegal

Akil Akiyo is a 22-year-old creative passionate about photography and cinematography based in Senegal. He is a photographer with 4 years of experience in portrait, event (concerts, weddings, etc.), fashion, sports, and product photography.

He started his photography career at the age of 18. He is also a 5th-year medical student looking for new ways and experiences to make his shots as unique as they are full of emotions.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

As a young photographer, I explore photography as a narrative medium: intimate portraits, mini-visual capsules, and fashion campaigns in West Africa. Each image is a story, each project an invitation to discover. I see photography as a silent language: a way of transforming the ordinary into visual poetry and of translating my emotions into images.

I think I truly understood this during a wedding I covered, when I looked back at the shots showing the emotions of the newlyweds, that’s when I realized what I wanted to convey through my photos: emotions.

How did you first get into photography?

Ironically, I had to face depression and boredom during the COVID-19 period, which pushed me to look for new hobbies. That’s how I started taking photos with my iPhone for some of my content creator friends at the time. They motivated me to take it seriously by sharing my work on Instagram.

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

Before discovering a real passion for fashion, street, and editorial photography, I first tried everything, from sports to events. But I remain most attached to portraiture above all.

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

My work is based on fundamentals such as visual narration, storytelling, and highlighting African talents, from fashion designers to models and other creatives. 

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

A key moment I’m proud of was a campaign for the ISHAYA fashion brand, led by a formidable team. We created authentic content, and I clearly remember the pride I felt realizing what we were building, and especially seeing where my love for photography could take me.

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

One of my biggest challenges was covering my first wedding. I was new to the field, but I couldn’t refuse the client’s request because I always tell myself: it’s not by running away from challenges that I will exceed my limits. 

It was stressful, but I truly appreciated the experience, thanks to the kindness of the newlyweds and their families, and by trusting my creativity.

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

If I had to collaborate with a creative person, I’d choose Dan Carter. Having already worked with him, I really appreciated his vision of the creative world and the good energy he transmits.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

I think 54Ruum is a great showcase for young African creatives. Its strength lies not only in showing beautiful images but also in highlighting the story and universe of each artist. This gives the projects a deeper and more human dimension.

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

Photography in Senegal is today a living art with great potential. It is rooted in a tradition of popular portraiture while opening up to conceptual, urban, and cultural forms. The country provides fertile ground where visual creativity draws from history, everyday life, and a vibrant collective artistic scene.

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

My advice: observe before you shoot. Technique can be learned, but your vision and emotion will make the difference. Photograph what truly speaks to you.