“I have learnt that opportunities are there to be created as well as waiting to be found; the only way to handle such a challenge is to persevere and remain persistent."
Ayorinde Ogundele is a multidisciplinary photographer currently based in Lagos, Nigeria. He became a photographer to document essential aspects of life often overlooked, focusing on the intricate political, economic, and social factors that shape our society.
His exploration spans various photography fields, from documentary, fine art, conceptual, and portraiture to whatever other means are needed to document life's impermanence, helping others see the world differently.
Ayorinde Ogundele - Nigerian documentary photographer
In my late teens, I discovered an affinity for capturing images and preserving memories; I found myself orchestrating group photos and imagining narratives told through them.
When my family moved to the outskirts of Lagos, I started photographing small animals with my phone and capturing everyday interests. That was when I discovered I wanted to be a photographer with a special affinity for naturally occurring elements.
I am a very reserved and reticent person, only becoming frisky when I am completely comfortable. As I grow older, I prefer solitude and tranquillity, which aid my thinking and help me appreciate the essence of a moment.
I also love football and play every weekend with friends. When it comes to music, I favour old-school songs and collect vintage vinyl records; I have over 170 records and several cassettes.
“I avoid interfering with life as it unfolds, preferring to preserve the moment unless it's conceptual, so viewers can share the experience.”
My love for ballads and jazz influences my approach, ensuring each subject is approached with the right rhythm. I own a trumpet, but can't play it; there's still much for me to learn.
I enjoy capturing candid images-portraits or nature scenes-like songs with thoughtful lyrics. I avoid interfering with life as it unfolds, preferring to preserve the moment unless it's conceptual, so viewers can share the experience.
When my photos were published internationally in 2022 in The Year Time Stopped, a book about how people worldwide coped during the pandemic. Since then, I've had three more publications in the US, Portugal, and the UK, and won several photography competitions.
Gaining visibility and exposure. Applying for open calls, grants, or competitions is vital; sometimes you're successful, other times not. The industry is growing crowded, making opportunities limited. I've learned that we must create opportunities ourselves, which requires perseverance and persistence.
What type of photography do you specialise in?
Primarily, documentary storytelling-capturing life as it happens. I've also explored portraiture, food, wildlife, and landscapes. I suppose I'm a jack of all trades, but my experiences have helped me understand the commercial side, including stock photography.
My work centres on documentary and stock photography. I aim to create images that help individuals or agencies market themselves and reach wider audiences. I've seen my photos used in news articles and blogs, and I look forward to seeing more in the future.
“I like to capture images that are candid, whether they are portraits or nature scenes, just like songs with carefully thought-out lyrics.”
I focus on how to tell the story or how the subject wishes to be seen. Some projects need planning, sketches, and budgeting, while others require just presence and spontaneity. Research is fundamental. As an African, I understand the cultural and historical backgrounds that shape stories, guiding me on how to accurately portray them.
I believe my work aligns with outlets like National Geographic and stock platforms such as Getty Images, PICHA, and Shutterstock. I admire Ghanaian photographers like Carlos Idun-Taiwah and Michael Aboya for their storytelling; although I explore other niches, I draw inspiration from their work.
The growth is encouraging; it has transitioned from being viewed as merely a profession to clients and viewers appreciating its artistic value. More creative agencies are emerging; some independent and others collaborating across the industry. Overall, I am very impressed with its rapid development.
I strive to produce original works that cannot be easily copied, showcasing authenticity and creative integrity. What's worth doing is worth doing well. Doing your best helps set a higher standard for yourself.
It's an essential platform for African creatives, providing an opportunity to tell our stories in our own way. It's a breath of fresh air for the creative industry. When I first saw a post from 54Ruum, I was impressed by the layout and detailed photographer profiles; it helps me learn from others' craft and interpretations.
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