Manuel Michael: Nigerian fashion and editorial photographer exploring identity and human expression | 54Ruum Spotlight

Emmanuel Aleni, professionally known as Manuel Michael, is a self-taught fashion and editorial photographer based in Abuja, Nigeria. He started shooting in 2018, driven by a deep love for fashion and clothing design, and has been refining his eye ever since, creating intentional and expressive images.

For him, photography is a reflection of his inner world and a way to connect with people beyond his immediate environment. For him, music is a very important part of his photography process.

It shapes his mood, guides his pacing, and helps him visualise concepts before he even picks up the camera. Through this journey, he continues to merge his love for fashion and photography, as he creates images that tell stories.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

I’m an introvert who chose photography, so I’m constantly outside my comfort zone, and I love it.

How did you first get into photography?

I don’t think there was a specific moment that got me into photography. Back in school, I just loved taking pictures of random things and my friends, and everyone wanted me to take their photos with the Infinix phone I was using at the time, and I started liking it. Then my brother got me my first camera, and everything picked up from there.

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

I specialise in fashion and editorial photography. I’m drawn to fashion because it goes beyond clothing; it’s about identity, culture, and self-expression.

Editorial photography allows me to tell stories, create moods, and communicate ideas rather than just making visually appealing images.I chose this niche because I enjoy working with people and using fashion as a visual language to explore individuality and connection.

Over time, my style has evolved from focusing mainly on aesthetics to being more intentional and narrative-driven. I now pay closer attention to mood, texture, composition, and the feeling an image creates, not just how it looks.

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

I’m interested in people, how they show up, and how fashion becomes part of that expression. I try to create calm and humane images, so that viewers can connect without needing too much explanation.

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

I’m still building my career, so my proudest moment so far has been realising the kind of photographer I want to be and starting to shape my work around that. Moving from just creating images to creating work with meaning was a turning point for me.

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

There’s none I can think of for now.

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

I’d love to shoot for Vogue magazine someday.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

I think 54Ruum is doing an awesome job spotlighting creatives.

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

The photography and art space in Nigeria has grown a lot in recent years. There are more platforms, exhibitions, and creative communities supporting photographers. 

Social media has also helped, allowing artists to share work, collaborate, and be seen both locally and internationally. At the same time, there are more creative hubs, exhibitions, and platforms supporting visual artists, which wasn’t as common before.

The scene feels more connected and intentional now. Photographers are pushing narratives, collaborating more, and being taken seriously as artists.

Advice to someone starting:

Just enjoy the process and keep showing up.