Photography is more than just snapping pictures; it’s about freezing moments in time, encapsulating emotions, and telling stories through images. For Adaoma, a passionate photographer, her journey began at a young age, fueled by a deep love for photos and the desire to capture the beauty of the world around her.
Adaoma found solace in the art of photography. “I have always had a love for photos,” she recalls fondly. “It intrigued me that I could capture a moment and always look back on it.” Armed with a digital camera at the age of ten, Adaoma embarked on a journey of exploration, documenting her life through a lens. With each click, she discovered the power of photography to evoke memories, emotions, and nostalgia.
As Adaoma’s passion for photography blossomed, so did her skill and creativity. She experimented with different cameras and editing techniques, honing her craft with each shot. “I was fascinated that I could edit videos and pictures to bring creativity into the world in a tangible way,” she reflects. From volunteering for school projects to setting up her photography page, Adaoma’s journey was one of continuous learning and growth.
Finding Reward in Capturing Essence
For Adaoma, the most rewarding aspect of photography lies in capturing the essence of her subjects. “I love that I could document my life through a lens and capture the true essence of others,” she shares. Whether it’s her subjects’ beauty, joy, or energy, Adaoma strives to capture their essence in every photograph.
Navigating the Photography Process
Adaoma’s photography process is a blend of creativity and spontaneity from conception to finalization. Whether brainstorming ideas, organizing shoots, or editing photos, Adaoma approaches each step with passion and dedication. “My typical shooting process is random,” she admits, “as I like to go with the flow and see what comes up.”
Drawing Inspiration from Creativity
When asked about her influences, Adaoma credits fellow creatives for shaping her approach to photography. “Other creatives influence me the most,” she reveals. “I am in awe of the ideas, quality, and edits I see from them.” Inspired by their work, Adaoma has developed a unique style characterized by its focus on capturing the essence of her subjects with brightness and grace.
Favourite Project
One of Adaoma’s most cherished photography projects is a collaboration with her beauty and wellness brand. This project holds a special place in her heart as she meticulously selected each model based on a specific intention she felt they exuded. Through her lens, Adaoma captured not just their physical beauty but also the essence of their personalities, creating a collection of images that resonate with authenticity and purpose.
Local Collaborations
While Adaoma’s journey as a photographer has been largely solitary, she has also found fulfillment in collaborating with fellow creatives and local organizations. One memorable collaboration was with a photographer named Doyin, with whom she worked on a BGC event. Together, they captured the essence of the event, each bringing their unique editing styles to the table.
Additionally, Adaoma has collaborated with various local businesses and organizations, including Odihi Empowers, BGC Vancouver, and UBC Black Caucus, to capture their events and missions through her photography. These collaborations have not only allowed Adaoma to expand her portfolio but have also enabled her to make meaningful connections within her community.
Fostering Collaboration and Community Engagement
For Adaoma, collaboration and community engagement are integral parts of her photography journey. Whether collaborating with local organizations or showcasing her work at community events, Adaoma is committed to connecting with her audience and making a positive impact through her photography.
Embracing Growth Through Challenges
Like any journey, Adaoma’s path as a photographer has been marked by challenges and obstacles. From grappling with self-doubt to finding a balance between passion and practicality, Adaoma has faced her fair share of hurdles. However, it is through overcoming these challenges that she has experienced growth and resilience. “I learned to stop comparing myself to others,” she reflects, “and find safety in my own strides in the world.”
Balancing Passion and Practicality
In the ever-changing landscape of photography, Adaoma remains grounded by staying true to herself. Whether it’s navigating the challenges of turning a hobby into a business or finding inspiration in the world around her, Adaoma’s unwavering dedication to her craft is a testament to the transformative power of photography.
Looking Towards the Future
As Adaoma looks towards the future, her aspirations remain rooted in her passion for photography. From short-term goals of continuous growth to long-term dreams of collaborating with local artists and organizations, Adaoma’s journey as a photographer is one of endless possibilities and creativity.
Advice for Aspiring Photographers
For aspiring photographers, Adaoma offers sage advice: “Just start! Don’t compare yourself, but rather get inspired by others, and don’t stop learning.” In a world where self-doubt and fear can often hold us back, Adaoma’s words serve as a reminder to embrace our creativity and pursue our passions wholeheartedly.
View more stunning shots by Adaoma on Instagram @shotsbyadaoma
