Laurianne Mbadinga, artistic photographer based in Libreville, Gabon

Laurianne Veira, better known as Ayaka Lau, is passionate about art in general.
Photography is a world where I truly express myself in every possible way, and it's a magical moment for me to be able to capture the abstract aspects of the subject and reveal the beauty of the world.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

Passionate about creativity, I express myself through bold and colorful photography where experimentation plays a central role. I love to explore the boundaries of imagery, playing with light, textures, and contrast to bring original, sometimes abstract compositions to life. For me, each photo is an invitation to see the world differently—through a vibrant, intuitive, and deeply personal lens.

How did you first get into photography?

It happened during my trip to Bamako. I was there on vacation, and at first, I was really bored because I hadn’t found my rhythm yet. One evening, I thought, why not keep myself busy by taking self-portraits to pass the time? I tend to find inspiration at night, and I enjoy it. From taking one or two pictures a day, my passion grew, and I continued to practice and develop it ever since.

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

I specialize in artistic photography because I’ve always been passionate about art. That love started with dance—I was really drawn to dance video productions. I wanted to explore that world and push my creativity further to see what I was capable of producing. My style has evolved a lot over time.

I started by simply filming with my iPhone 6s, capturing my surroundings spontaneously. Gradually, I refined my eye, experimenting with creative framing, lighting effects, and experimental approaches. Now, using my iPhone 11, I go further with my visual explorations, mixing vibrant colors, textures, and sometimes even a touch of abstraction to express my unique view of the world.

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

The themes and ideas that guide my work mostly revolve around language, the abstraction of everyday life, visual experimentation with blur, reflections, movement, intimacy, and emotion.

Through my pictures, I aim to create an authentic connection with viewers. Even when they are abstract or experimental, my photos convey emotion, atmosphere, or a feeling that I want to share. It’s my way of communicating without words—of expressing what I feel or observe with sensitivity. I love the idea that everyone can project their own story onto my work, making my images a meeting point between my perspective and theirs.

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

Taking a photo using just a flashlight, a fridge display window, and a chair—with my iPhone—and doing it entirely on my own. I think that photo is my greatest achievement. The result touched me deeply because it truly captured the state of mind I was in when I took it.

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

Submitting my work for a portfolio review contest was a major challenge. I tend to avoid competitions because I often underestimate my art. Sometimes in my life, fear tries to take over, but that day I managed to overcome it. It felt more like a success than a failure—even though I wasn’t selected, I overcame my fear.

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

It would be an exhibition project, no matter the theme, because I’d love for my art to be shared with like-minded artists and seen by as many people as possible. I want others to feel everything I hope to express and the dedication behind each piece.

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

My first piece of advice would be to turn every moment of boredom into a creative and fun experience, because it’s in those moments that our minds are most open to trying and discovering new things. I would also encourage them to listen to themselves and have confidence, because that self-belief will help them go beyond their limits and overcome obstacles.

Finally, they should know that in photography, even the simplest equipment can produce great work. I started with just a phone and no photography gear, yet I’ve been able to create artistic and beautiful images.