A love of words paved the way for Canon Ambassador Emmanuel Oyeleke to unlock his passion for photography.

Possessing a portfolio bursting with iconic fashion and beauty images, Nigerian lifestyle photographer Emmanuel is one of the most in-demand photographers in his country. Yet his journey into the industry was less than conventional.

"I used to play Scrabble professionally and fell in love with photography when I started travelling around the world for tournaments," he explains. "I wanted to bring back memories from trips I had taken, and to portray this in my pictures – different countries, experiences and cultures. Finding this profession was actually down to chance."

Emmanuel's beautiful style went on to attract the attention of major commercial and fashion brands. "At some point, I was able to start choosing what kind of work I did and what kind of portfolio I wanted to build," he explains. "It's been continuous learning ever since and I'm still a work in progress – I still learn every single day."

Whether capturing a high-fashion shoot in the studio or out on location, Emmanuel has garnered a reputation for never repeating the same image. "I get bored very easily, so it's important to make sure whatever I do, every single time I do things in a different way," he says. "If I want to get the result of four, for me it could be two plus two or six minus two. Creativity has many routes, not just one path."

Today, his spectacular images are regularly featured in Nigeria's most prominent magazines, and he has worked on beauty and lifestyle campaigns for several international brands. His advice for photographers wishing to follow in his footsteps is simple: always value what you do. "You also have to understand that you're not for everyone," he explains. "Creativity can vary hugely from person to person, so stick to doing what you're doing. You must be fulfilled and remember why you do what you do, otherwise it's a waste of time."

As for future ambitions, Emmanuel is keen to help the next generation of photographers stepping up behind him. "My goal would be to make my studio into a full photography agency in Nigeria that can fulfil any assignment anywhere in the world. I would like to build capacity and train people too, and become a brand that people want to work for and with. That would make me so happy.

"To know that someone somewhere is inspired by what I've done is very humbling. When I look at where I started and where I am now, I hope it makes people realise they can achieve whatever they want to."

Your portfolio is very versatile. What drives your creative ideas?

"I get inspiration from everything – from the books I read, my wild imagination, my cultural background, nature, the work of other artists, movies I watch and things I think about. I like to see the beautiful side of everything and take the positives out of every situation; creating beauty from nothing. I am inspired by the sociopolitical movements around me and history – I'm inspired by so many things! I don't want to be confined to a box. I want to express myself, and I do that through my photography."



What would you say are the key elements to successful lifestyle photography?

"Firstly, I would say to always be prepared. Make sure you are equipped with the relevant knowledge. Once you're prepared, it's important to be open to ideas and different creative options. Don't be stuck in the way things have always been done. Be creative in your approach and be open."



What's been the most valuable lesson you've learnt during your career?

"Learning to value myself. Humility is also very important. We're just here for a short time and it's important to keep working hard and to remember that things will come to you in due time."



You've been to some amazing locations. What's the most exciting shoot you've ever done?

"I like to challenge myself every single time – I like to think my next shoot is going to be my most exciting yet. I've been lucky to work on lots of exciting projects. I love shooting outdoors – the bigger the challenge, the more exciting I find the shoot. It gives me the chance to showcase my creativity."

Emmanuel Oyeleke

Facebook: @eopstudios

Instagram: @emmanueloyeleke

Twitter: @_Oyeleke

Website: www.emmanueloyeleke.com