Abdullahi Ahmad
Katsina, Nigeria
Abdullahi Ahmad, a self-taught photographer from Nigeria, finds his passion in capturing the essence of everyday life, cultural richness, and Hausa architecture prevalent in Northern Nigeria. With a keen eye for detail, Ahmad discovers beauty in the ordinary, elevating mundane scenes into captivating imagery.
What is photography to you and how did you get started with it?
Photography isn't just a hobby for me; it's a way of life. Every day, I wake up with a renewed sense of wonder, eager to capture the world through my lens. It's like a silent conversation, where light and shadow dance to tell stories I might otherwise miss. From the bustling energy of street markets to the serene quietude of a lone tree at sunrise, photography allows me to see the world with an artist's eye, appreciating the intricate details and grand narratives that unfold around me. It's more than just documenting moments; it's about understanding them, interpreting them, and sharing them with a unique perspective.
What impact do you think your childhood has on your photography?
This passion wasn't always there. It all began with a simple gift – my first iPhone, handed to me by a supportive uncle. That small device unlocked a universe of possibilities. Suddenly, I could freeze fleeting moments in time, experiment with angles and compositions, and witness the world in a way I never had before. It wasn't just about taking pictures; it was about learning to see, to feel, to connect with the world on a deeper level. Photography has become more than just a skill; it's a culture I actively engage in, a community of passionate individuals who share my love for visual storytelling. It's an identity I proudly wear, one that shapes how I interact with the world and how I express myself creatively. And it all started with a single click, a spark of inspiration ignited by a thoughtful gift that continues to illuminate my path today.
What challenges do you face as an artist? How do you overcome low periods of motivation or creative ruts?
As an artist, you encounter challenges throughout your journey; it's a never-ending cycle. However, my major challenge lies in securing funding for my projects. Raising funds can be difficult, but true artists don't let obstacles deter them from pursuing their dreams.
While dealing with a lack of motivation or a creative block is an inevitable part of being As artists, we have ways to overcome them. Personally, I find taking a break from creating helpful. Stepping outside of photography allows me to explore other activities and regain confidence and motivation.
Please tell us about your process and vision?
As a photographer, my process must be one of curiosity. I love asking questions and understanding how things are done. This approach allows me to tackle any subject or story with the same passion and dedication. My vision is twofold: to create images that stand the test of time, like great buildings, and to capture moments that evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia, prompting viewers to ask "how?" and "why?"
What inspires you the most?
Every day, I wake up filled with an insatiable urge to create. The works of other artists
serve as a constant source of inspiration, fueling my own creative fire.
What gears do you generally use? What is your ideal piece of gear and why?
My go-to cameras are my Sony and my iPhone. Honestly, I subscribe to the philosophy of "the best camera is the one you have with you" – except for Nikons (just kidding, they're fine too!).
Tell us about a photo you’re proud of.
It's difficult to choose a favorite amongst the photographs I've taken. Each one holds a unique significance for me, and I'm proud of the body of work I've created.
How would you define photographic success?
As humans, the definition of success is subjective. For me, photographic success encompasses the ability to see the world from a different perspective, creating photos that stand the test of time, and make a lasting impact
Any new projects that you are working on currently? What does the future in photography look like for you?
Although I don't have a new project starting yet, one is in the works, and I'm hopeful I'll be able to begin soon as I'm involved in the process. Talking about the future of photography: I believe the future is a promising one with new innovations coming in day by day, and how people are embracing it. photography
has become a very popular and passionate pursuit.
Image copyrights © Abdullahi Ahmad
