A Great Image Stands Out - Golesh Esther Bagudu

Esther is known for her stylistic portraits’. Her subjects are not just clients; rather, her portraits seem to reveal the inner essence of the person. Her soulful images, use of natural lighting, and cultural awareness have afforded her the ability to follow her dream. As a Certified Professional Photographer, she has also began taking photography students , teaching them photography and showing them how to use their photographic skills to help themselves and give back to their communities. In this interview session with Murya Magazine, she bares her mind her passion for photography, the challenges in practicing the profession and many more. Excepts.

Give us a brief biography about yourself. My name is Golesh Esther Bagudu, I was born on 3rd April 1984 to the family of Mr & Mrs Bagudu Bako. I started my educational career at Turaki International School Malali Kaduna from there to the Federal Government Collage Malali Kaduna. Thereafter, I attended the University of Maiduguri where I obtained a degree in Sociology and Anthropology. I also obtained a Post Graduate Diploma in Education (pgde). I am also an entrepreneur. As an entrepreneur, I have done many businesses out of which I settled for photography, a decision based on the passion I have for taking pictures. Why did you choose photography as a career? Well there is a common saying that says: life is too short for you not to love what you do. That is why I don’t have paid to take pictures. I derive great joy and feel free when doing my job. The camera has enabled me to meet a good number of people I never dreamed of meeting. I must admit I am a very shy person, but with the camera I am free, I can move around places where I couldn’t without the camera. That was how my passion became a means of livelihood for me. What Makes a Great Image? Long before I became a professional photographer, I realized that people can have emotional attachment to an image. I once saw an eye-catching, close-up Photograph of a girl. She was laughing. The photo stood out; it was out of character. I couldn’t help but ask, “Who is in this photo and who shoot it?”

Over the years, I’ve photographed hundreds of people. Clients often tell me that there is one particular image that stands out for them—one that they refer to again and again. It is an image captured in a split second when that person revealed their inner essence to the camera. The image is real and raw, a documented natural moment in the individual’s life. It is the person’s most prized possession. For those of us in love with photography, there is nothing more gratifying than creating an image that moves another human. Creating a stunning image is central to our business. It takes time to learn to create this kind of image, and to do so, you must spend time with the client. As a professional photographer specializing in family portraits, I’ve had the privilege of working with and creating thousands of memorable images over the years. Nothing gives me more satisfaction than meeting the families, getting to know them, and creating extraordinary images of and for them. The skills I’ve acquired have helped me to truly enjoy the experience of photographing people. I have a deep love for teaching, and in granting this interview I’ve “married” my two loves—photography and educating. This was my call. What challenges do you face in pursuing your career as a professional photographer? The challenges are much, family, friends not being supportive they don't like to pay for services rendered. Another challenge is theft and lack of opportunity and funds. What advice do you have for young people who are looking to become professional photographers and how can you be reached by prospective clients? My advice for them to that they should pursue their dream and hold it tight till they reach where they feel is the top for them. I can be reached at 08114020652 or email me at aprilphotographyapril@gmail.com and Facebook: aprilphotgrahy