On March 19th and 20th , the second edition of Owalesphotography TellThatStory 2.0 (TTS2.0) held in Benin with experts taking on the upcoming photographers in the business of photography.
According to the convener of the initiative, and lead photographer at owalesphotography Babawale Obayanju, the project aimed at equipping and building a movement of focused and productive photographers who would tell the story of Nigeria using their documentary, still life, and realist photography skills, starting from Benin City.
“This year is being organized in collaboration with Edo State Global Art Center a global center where the brilliant arts of Bini Kingdom is showcased and doubles up as space for creatives to express their ingenuity. In achieving her aim TTS organizes a biannual training session roundtable inviting renowned photo artists from with Nigeria and outside of Nigeria
“Obayanju, explained that it is time for Edo creative photographers to move from survival mode to profitability, from levels of mediocrity to excellence. He further said that this art of drawing with light can be inherent or taught/learnt but the art of doing business is something everyone striving to be a successful entrepreneur must learn, hence this roundtable workshop. Also speaking Edgar Imafidon of Edgarima photography a convener of TTS further spoke on the vision, he said it is a catalyst influencing a paradigm shift, provoking a purposeful and intentional change in photographers towards the production of quality and consistent body work accompanied by value for such works.
“TellThatStory will continue to promote a community where learning and sharing is key while growing the photography business in Edo state and Nigeria.
“We are hoping to have photographers in days, who have moved from just taking photographs to telling stories that will outlive us as has being exemplified in the newly renovated National Museum here in Benin city, Edo State where Photo works of people like Pa. Solomon Osagie Alonge on the great Bini Kingdom will be exhibited on a whole floor.
In his presentation, Olanrewaju Balogun of Libraneye photography said “Nigeria needs entrepreneurs to grow her economy. Photography has in recent years seen many young innovative and creative young persons join as it takes little or nothing to become one. But he insisted that to be a professional photographer you must know the photography need you want meet, the product you intend to sell and also the service (which is very key in this business) you want to offer. Photography is a people business therefore an understanding of your client’s needs/desire is key to being a success in photography. He said, knowledge of the financial numbers and how they add up is paramount if we are to be profitable and economically viable photographer.
” Also speaking at the event, Aham Ibeleme of Aham Ibeleme photography explained that lighting will always define incredible photographs any day and any time. As light painters (photographers) we must master the art of seeing light, knowing the kind of lights Mother Earth has and their resultant effects will help us tell better stories as we journey to making incredible images.
