Diji Aderogba: Nigerian street style photographer expressing the storytelling of people and places | 54Ruum Spotlight

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Published23rd Feb, 2026

"The street keeps offering stories — regardless of how often you walk the same path — there is always something to tell."

Diji Aderogba is a Nigerian-born, Nigeria-based film director and photographer. He began his career as a film director before pursuing street-style photography professionally in 2023. In 2024, he became a published photographer and exhibited his work in Birmingham, UK. He has been nominated for the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) twice, in 2020 and 2023.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

Not to sound bold, I would say I am incredibly talented — likely one of the most gifted artists you will ever meet. I also view myself as kind, funny, a foodie, and someone who values their sleep.

Another fun fact about me is that I love being on my phone; I watch a lot of YouTube videos, which occupy hours of my day. When I am not on the streets taking photographs or filming, I am usually sleeping or on YouTube.

How did you get started in photography?

I have always loved photography, but the specific style I enjoyed was not particularly welcomed in Nigeria. Consequently, when I moved to the UK, I picked up my phone and began shooting strictly street style photography before eventually saving up for a camera.

Regarding influences, Andre D. Wagner truly inspired me to continue with the genre; I have studied his work extensively alongside that of other photographers. The passion for capturing stills existed long before I embarked on filmmaking, and I am delighted to finally be practising street style photography both within and outside the UK.

What type of photography do you specialise in, and why this speciality?

I specialise in street and street-style photography, ranging from fashion to editorial and documentary work. Consistency has shaped how I capture images and how I use the camera to tell stories.

Documenting the everyday lives of people brings me joy. The fact that the street keeps offering stories — regardless of how often you walk the same path — means there is always something to tell just by going out to take photos. For me, the street is my office.

What are the main themes or ideas that inspire your photography?

It is simply the storytelling of people and places; it might sound cliché, but that is truly it. I use images to connect with others by capturing everyday life scenes that people see daily without paying attention. I imagine someone seeing my photos and saying, "Oh, I’ve seen this before." In the end, what differentiates us is attention and motive.

What accomplishment or moment in your photography career are you most proud of?

It felt wonderful the first time my work was published. I am also very proud of the day I exhibited my photos in Birmingham, UK. I have achieved many milestones that I take pride in, so it is difficult to select just one, but publishing a zine and exhibiting my work are certainly at the top of the list.

"If I really want to do something, I find a way to do it."

What's the biggest challenge you've faced as a photographer?

Without wishing to sound cliché, I do not view anything as a challenge when it involves storytelling. If I really want to do something, I find a way to do it. It might take time, but I try to understand the importance of timing. Currently, the logistics of travelling everywhere in Lagos to take photographs is perhaps the only challenge I can think of.

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

I would definitely love to work with Andre D. Wagner, as well as Apple, various travel agencies across Africa, and any mobile phone brands.

What do you think of the 54Ruum platform?

I like it. There is something special and amazing about a community of artists, and being on this platform means a lot to me. It proves that I am contributing something positive to the culture and the ecosystem as a whole.

How's the photography and art space in your country?

Photography and art have taken a different shape and route in Africa as a whole, not just in Nigeria. I am super excited about the path we have found ourselves on. Grateful for platforms like 54Ruum that give art and photography voices in and outside Nigeria.