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A photographer, Ajibade Israel, is the founder of Ajibade Israel Photography. He tells OGHENOVO EGODO-MICHAEL about his business
Tell us about your family background.
I come from a family of seven, which includes two male children, three females, and my parents.
What schools did you attend?
I graduated from the University of Ibadan with a degree in Classics.
Did you at any point intend to practise what you studied in the university?
No, I never wanted to practise what I studied. Classics is not a streamlined course that guarantees one a specific profession, unlike law and medicine. Quite frankly, after I could not make it to study Law at the University of Ibadan, I was clueless about what to do. I only wanted to be at the top of my class.
In my second year, I decided that I would become a television presenter, so I went looking for an internship opportunity. Luckily, I got one at the Lagos State Television. I had a great boss turned friend, and learnt a great deal while there, but I did not feel satisfied.
How were you able to gather resources to start up your business?
Starting my business involved a combination of careful planning, leveraging my skills, and taking calculated risks. I began by outlining a clear vision and business plan, identifying my niche and target audience. Building on my photography skills, I invested in the necessary equipment, established an online presence, and networked to create opportunities. It was a blend of dedication, learning from setbacks, and adapting to changes along the way that ultimately allowed me to establish and grow my business.
What kind of pictures is your favourite to take?
I love taking pictures of people. I love the diverse experiences and memories that come with meeting different people, so it doesn’t matter what genre; I am always happy to do it as long as I am photographing people. However, I have pegged my niche in beauty, fashion, and portrait photography.
How do you stay inspired and creative as a photographer?
I observe my environment. I am usually very enthralled by the colours around me.
Are there pictures that are out of bounds for you because of either personal or religious beliefs?
No, there aren’t. I think whatever I create is an extension of a special spiritual bond with whoever my model, client, and team are, and we are reaching out to others to appreciate, feel, and love. It is quite an artistic expression.
What is your favourite photography accessory?
I am currently enamoured with the optical snoot. It has become my favourite photography accessory. The endless creative avenues it offers for manipulating and controlling light have truly captivated me. It has opened a world of possibilities, inspiring me to explore and experiment in ways that redefine my approach to photography.
What sets you apart from other photographers?
What sets me apart is the seamless customer services that enable clients to have a feel-at-home experience during a shoot and foster long-term customer relationships.
An additional edge is my style of photography, which uses colours, artistic lighting, and creative sets to amplify and flatter clients in a glorious way.
What are some challenges you have faced in running your business so far?
Running my business has involved navigating two key challenges. First, adapting to the dynamic economic climate and market changes has been pivotal. It has been essential to uphold our commitment to quality services for both existing and new clients, while responding to these shifts.
Also, balancing the creative demands of the work itself with the managerial aspects of the business has been an ongoing challenge. Juggling these two facets requires a delicate harmony to ensure both creative excellence and operational efficiency.
How many workers do you have?
It is just me and a set assistant at the moment.
How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends in your line of business?
I spend my leisure time researching what new things other photographers are using. I am mostly on Instagram, YouTube, and Google. I also keep up with creative digital companies, such as Adobe, to see what new software or features they are working on or making available for creatives like me.
How do you handle difficult clients?
Handling difficult clients in photography requires a balance of patience, empathy, and professionalism. When faced with challenging situations, I prioritise active listening to understand their concerns fully. I aim to remain calm and solution-oriented, seeking common ground to address their issues while upholding the standards of my work. Clear communication about expectations, along with a willingness to adapt and find compromises, often helps in resolving conflicts. Ultimately, my goal is to ensure a positive experience for the client, while maintaining the integrity of my artistic vision and professional boundaries.
How would you handle a situation whereby you lost your client’s files?
I have never been in that situation. However, if that happens, I will approach it with transparency, accountability, and a proactive attitude. First, I would immediately inform the client about the situation, expressing sincere apologies and taking full responsibility. I would explain the steps I’m taking to mitigate the issue, such as conducting a thorough search, utilising data recovery services if applicable, or recreating the work if feasible.
To make amends, I would offer solutions to compensate for the loss, such as providing additional services, a discount on future work, or any other suitable form of compensation based on the situation, and the client’s needs. Throughout the process, I would maintain open communication, keeping the client informed of every step taken to rectify the situation and ensuring their satisfaction with the resolution. Additionally, I would review and improve my backup and file management systems to prevent such incidents in the future, prioritising the security and preservation of clients’ work.
As a photographer, how do you take professional pictures of yourself?
I reach out to any of my friends who are also photographers to take them.
What is the lowest amount you have ever been paid for a job?
I prefer not to disclose specific payment amounts due to professional confidentiality. What matters most to me is delivering exceptional quality and value to my clients, regardless of the project’s scale or compensation.
How do you deal with clients who avoid paying their bills but offer exposure instead?
I appreciate the value of exposure, but I maintain a policy of not accepting it as a form of payment for my professional services. However, I am open to exploring collaborations that align with my goals and offer mutual benefit for both parties.
What is the most important lesson you have learnt as an entrepreneur?
Throughout my journey as an entrepreneur, I have learnt that maintaining consistent efforts while embracing humility is crucial for success. Consistency breeds reliability, while humility fosters growth, adaptability, and meaningful connections; all contributing to a thriving entrepreneurial path
How do you balance running a business with your personal life?
I prioritise balance by taking the necessary breaks to recharge when running my business. It is crucial for maintaining both productivity and personal well-being.
Where do you see your brand in the next 10 years?
In the next decade, I envision my brand thriving with an expanded studio space and a cohesive team structure, including a dedicated brand manager. I aim to establish a distinguished reputation in advertising, commercial lifestyle, beauty, and fashion photography; fostering collaborations both locally and internationally. This vision encompasses a dynamic growth strategy, ensuring a strong global presence and a lasting impact on the industry.

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