Tosin Babarinde, fashion editorial photographer based in Lagos, Nigeria

Tosin is a fashion and art photographer passionate about exploring and celebrating identity through bold, timeless imagery. His work goes beyond aesthetics — it is about capturing the stories, emotions, and individuality that define each subject. He uses his lens to highlight the essence of personal style and self-expression, his work is guided by a love for colour, depth, and unconventional perspectives.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

I would describe myself as one who is curious by nature and stubborn about growth. I love food, travelling, and soaking in different cultures. I move through life with quiet intensity, always chasing meaning in the little things.

How did you first get into photography?

I came into photography through poetry, where I first shaped words into paintings. I would read every poetry book I could lay my hands on, which led me to write my own and picture the unconventional in every ordinary moment. From there, I moved into pencil drawings, sketching out what I couldn't fully say. 

Eventually, I wanted more than static lines — I wanted to give those ideas breath, not knowing that nature was listening to me. Then my uncle gave me the first platform to take a passport photograph, and I was amazed by the whole process, even though that was my first experience with a camera. That’s when photography became the space where my art came alive.

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

I specialise in fashion editorial and art photography. I chose this niche because fashion, to me, is more than clothing—it is a reckoning with identity and a way of life expressed through art. Over time, my style has evolved from simple documentation into creating images that feel alive, bold, and unapologetically expressive. 

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

At the core of my photography is identity—how we see ourselves and how the world sees us. 

I'm drawn to silence, the unspoken moments, and turning the ordinary into something that demands attention. My images let people feel seen in ways words sometimes can’t.

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

One of the moments I'm most proud of was winning the award for Photographer of the Year in my final year in school. It felt like a door opening and a voice of courage to the call.

Then, my first publication years later with Malvie Magazine in 2023 became another defining milestone. That same year, I was also featured on platforms like 500px, which was special because it was a place I once drew so much inspiration from. Later, I was a finalist for the Agora Photo Award for #EYE2023.

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

My biggest challenge has been battling the feeling of not being enough, struggling to find like-minded creatives to build with, and navigating the limits of social media algorithms. What pulled me through was learning to stop overthinking and simply create. The lesson was simple but powerful: just do it.

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

If I could collaborate with anyone, it would be Gabriel Moses — his storytelling through imagery feels raw and timeless. On the brand side, Nike for how they merge sport, culture, and identity, and Gentle Monster for their bold, art-driven approach to fashion. Each represents the kind of fearless creativity I want my work to live in.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

I see 54Ruum as a vital platform — a space where emerging voices, culture, and identity can stand out, not just fit in. It can be a platform where diversity in vision gets rewarded by bridging the gap between creative energy and broader audience attention.

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

Photography in Nigeria has grown from documentation into art, with more festivals, platforms, and collaborations. Photographers are telling deeper stories of identity, culture, sustainability, waste recycling, and awareness of their environment and heritage.Though challenges like visibility, resources, and funding remain, the space is now more open, experimental, and confident than ever.

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

My advice would be simple: live above your fears and keep shooting. The more you create, the more your voice and confidence will grow.