Philip Somiari, documentary filmmaker based in Abuja, Nigeria

Somiari is a passionate photographer and filmmaker who is dedicated to capturing the beauty and essence of the world around him. With a careful view for details and love for storytelling, he specialises in portrait, documentary and events photography, striving to create resonant visual narratives.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

I have traveled through 32 out of the 36 states in Nigeria and if career paths were circles in a Venn diagram, you would easily find me at the intersection between Media, Marketing, and Tech.

With over a decade of combined experience as filmmaker and photographer, I have created compelling videos and photographs for both individuals and large corporations, including local businesses and multinational companies. 

I specialise in documentaries, corporate and social events, portraits, and lifestyle photography. This is how I have brought a high level of skill and creativity to every project I undertake.

How did you first get into photography?

I stumbled into photography as an undergraduate. I had a coursemate who was a photographer and his work was really inspiring, so I started taking photographs of insects and plants.

I would read every blog on photography in those days and join communities and online competitions from sites like DPreview, DPschool, Nat Geo Yourshot, etc; this was over a decade ago! With time, I improved and got better in my creativity.

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

These days I focus more on documentaries, corporate events, lifestyle & portraits

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

Because I primarily do commercial photography, the themes of my photograph largely depend on clients' briefs. Nonetheless, I generally consider decency when making my photographs.

The lingering question in my mind has always been “how do I represent my subject in a decent manner?”

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

I think that looking back on my journey, there are many things to be proud of; but primarily, the quality of my clientele is something I am proud of.

This has always motivated me to do better in my services, and has helped in my personal growth as well.

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

It's simple; “Gear acquisition syndrome and quality mentorships”

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

To be honest, I love collaborations and it doesn't matter with who; as long as the project is worth it. The extra point would be if it brings more visibility and or money.

But now that I just thought about it, maybe a collaboration with Sony, would be it.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

Although I am new in the community, I think I love the effort to create a community for likeminded people.

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

Things are quite better than when I started! In my view, big things are happening here right now.

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