Zeki Nasir: Ethiopian street photographer documenting everyday emotion and urban culture | 54Ruum Spotlight

Zeki Nasir is a street photographer from Ethiopia that is passionate about capturing real-life moments — the faces, moods, and movements that tell stories from the streets.

He shows the beauty in everyday life and the culture that shapes his surroundings through his lens. Photography, for him, is not just about taking pictures — it’s about preserving emotion, connection, and truth in every frame.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

I’m a 24-year-old street photographer from Ethiopia. I chase light, emotion, and untold stories hidden in everyday streets. My lens captures life as it truly feels — raw, real, and alive.

How did you first get into photography?

I first fell in love with photography through movies — the way a single frame could tell a powerful story. My dream of making films led me to pick up a camera, and that journey brought me to street photography.

Now, I capture real moments that feel cinematic — everyday life told through light, emotion, and atmosphere.

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

I specialise in street photography, specifically concentrating on capturing raw, everyday moments that reveal emotion, culture, and human connection. I chose this niche because the streets feel alive — unpredictable, honest, and full of untold stories.  Each frame allows me to document real life the way I see it, with natural light and genuine emotion.

Over time, my style has evolved from simple observation to intentional storytelling. I've learned to use composition, mood, and light to create images that feel cinematic — inspired by my early love for movies. My photography now blends realism with emotion, turning ordinary moments into visual narratives.

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

The main themes that drive my photography are human connection, emotion, and everyday beauty. I’m inspired by the way ordinary moments can carry deep meaning — a glance, a shadow, or the rhythm of life on the streets.

My goal is to capture honesty and atmosphere, showing how beauty exists even in simplicity. Through my images, I try to create a feeling of familiarity — something people can relate to no matter where they are. I want viewers to see a piece of themselves or their own memories in my photos.

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

The moment I’m most proud of was capturing the streets of Piassa, one of Addis Ababa’s most vibrant and historic areas. It was the first time I felt truly connected to my surroundings — the light, the faces, the energy of the city all came together perfectly. 

When people saw those photos and told me they could feel the spirit of Piassa, I realised that my work could preserve not just images, but emotions and stories. That moment reminded me why I fell in love with street photography in the first place.

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

The biggest challenge I faced as a photographer was starting out with only a smartphone. I didn’t have professional gear, but I had the vision and the desire to tell stories. Using what I had taught me to focus on composition, light, and emotion instead of equipment. Every photo became a lesson in creativity and patience. 

Over time, I realised that photography isn’t about the camera — it’s about how you see. Starting with a smartphone helped me build my eye, my style, and my confidence. It proved that passion and perspective are the real tools of a photographer.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

54Ruum clearly offers a community and platform for African and Black photographers to share their work and stories. Many contributors speak about how it provides visibility, connection, and a sense of belonging.

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

The photography and art scene in Ethiopia has been growing rapidly in recent years. There’s a new wave of young creatives using photography to tell authentic stories about culture, identity, and everyday life. 

Social media has played a big role in this evolution — giving local photographers visibility and connecting them with global audiences. Street photography, especially, has become a strong form of storytelling here.

More artists are documenting the beauty of urban life in places like Addis Ababa and Piassa, showing how modern Ethiopia blends tradition and change. There’s also more collaboration, exhibitions, and creative collectives emerging, which has made the community more open and inspiring.

It’s exciting to be part of this moment — capturing real life while watching Ethiopian photography grow and gain recognition around the world.

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

If I could give one piece of advice to someone starting their photography journey, it would be this: start with what you have and focus on what you see.

I began with just a smartphone, but that limitation taught me to notice light, emotion, and timing — the real essence of photography. Don’t wait for the perfect camera or the perfect moment. Keep shooting, keep learning, and stay curious. Your perspective is what makes your photos unique — not your gear. Every frame you capture is a step toward finding your voice.