A group of 25 young Nigerian amateur and professional photographers recently had
the chance to participate in a photography workshop in Lagos.
The workshop was a partnership between The Future Enterprise Support Scheme
(TFESS), Lighthouse Television and Filmworks, which provided a location for the
training as well as a range of its equipment.
Says TFESS project manager Ifeoma Areh: “The workshop was heavily subsidised at
a flat rate of N5 000 to make it accessible to these talented young people. Seven
participants received the training free of charge. This is how TFESS continues to
identify young talents in Nigeria and provide world class qualitative training.’
Workshop facilitators were internationally known local photographers Kelechi Amadi
Obi, Ade Plumptre, Body Lawson, Isaac Emokpae and Obi Somto.
Topics included an introduction to Photography, Brief History of Photography, Basic
Camera Operation and Handling, Film versus Digital Cameras, Understanding Aperture,
Shutter Speed and ISO, Ethics and Getting Work as a Freelancer.
Participants received certificates and the 10 best students received internships with
some of the workshop facilitators and other firms.
Student Sanu Oladipo Akinkunle comments: “TFESS has given me the tools to
graduate from an amateur photographer and aspire to become a pro in the real sense
of the word.’
Fellow student Oyeleke Seun adds: “For so long I have appreciated photography
without understanding the fundamental concepts. I admired photographic works
without knowing how much work had gone into it. I was burdened with a passion I
had no way to satisfy. But all this has changed.’
TFESS emphasises quality as a factor in its workshop. This emphasis runs through
the selection of facilitators, the origination of the curriculum, equipment, choice and
eventual grading of students.
Areh says photography in Nigeria has transformed from a trade involving a
photographer with a small studio taking family portraits into a full blown industry.
“But the local industry still lacks professional training due to inadequate development
funds. However, there are great expectations and opportunities as the industry is
growing, with increasing appreciation for the work of professional, artistic
photography. As a result Nigerian photographers are earning big amounts and scoring
overseas assignments.’
She notes that Nigeria has recently seen a significant increase in creativity in the
areas of commercials, film and advertising and events photography. This is in
contrast to journalistic photography that continues to lag behind.
“Photography is incredibly important as an outlet for creativity,’ continues Areh.
“Nigerian youth are generally artistic whether it is in arts, literature or music and
drama. They see photography as an important tool for expression. Just as Nigerian
literature is now receiving global respect, so too will Nigerian photography in the not
too distant future.’
Digital photography has had a significant impact on the industry. “It has made things
easier, widened access and opened young eyes to the possibility of creating better
visual work. This trend is evident in the growth of glossy weekly and monthly
magazines.
“In Nigeria, photography is going full circle and TFESS is privileged to contribute to
the revolution,’ concludes Areh.
By Martin Chemhere
Screen Africa magazine – May 2012
