Art & Business Visionary Kola Oshalusi’s Insights on Photography Entrepreneurship

We are delighted to have a conversation with Kola Oshalusi, the visionary Founder and Creative Director of Insigna Media Production Limited, and the mastermind behind the renowned Business of Photography Conference. In this engaging interview conducted by Felix Imoh, we will delve into Kola’s extraordinary journey, his insights into the synergy between art and commerce, and his vision for the future of the industry. Get comfortable with your preferred beverage, perhaps with a cup of tea or coffee and join us as we explore an inspiring world where creativity flourishes and entrepreneurship thrives. Let’s begin this enlightening journey together.

Q1: Can you tell us about your journey into the world of photography and what inspired you to establish Insigna Media Production Limited?

Certainly! My photography journey began with a fascination for capturing moments and telling stories through imagery. Growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, I was surrounded by vibrant culture and diverse narratives, which fueled my passion for documenting life’s nuances. As I honed my craft, I realized the immense potential of photography not just as an art form but also as a powerful tool for communication and expression.

Establishing Insigna Media Production Limited was a natural progression for me. I envisioned a platform that could not only showcase my work but also collaborate with other talented creatives to produce compelling visual content. The desire to contribute to Africa’s growing creative landscape and to challenge the status quo in the industry was a significant driving force behind founding Insigna Media.

 

Q2: What motivated you to initiate the Business of Photography Conference, and how has it evolved since its inception?

The idea for the Business of Photography Conference (BOP) stemmed from a need I observed within the photography community. While there was immense talent, there seemed to be a gap in understanding the business side of the industry. I wanted to create a platform where photographers could learn about the entrepreneurial aspects of their craft, from branding and marketing to financial management.

Since its inception, BOP has evolved into West Africa’s premier photography conference, attracting both seasoned professionals and aspiring photographers. We’ve expanded our scope to cover a wide range of topics relevant to the modern creative entrepreneur, and the response has been overwhelming. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how BOP has empowered individuals to turn their passion for photography into sustainable businesses.

Q3: This year’s conference theme is “Culture Exchange – The Art of Business.” What inspired the selection of this theme, and what do you hope attendees will gain from it?

The theme “Culture Exchange – The Art of Business” was inspired by the rich tapestry of cultures that define Africa. I believe that our diverse cultural heritage is not only a source of inspiration but also a valuable asset in the creative industry. By exploring how culture intersects with business, we aim to foster greater appreciation for our collective heritage while also uncovering new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

I hope attendees will gain insights into how they can leverage cultural exchange to elevate their work and expand their business horizons. Whether it’s through cross-cultural collaborations or tapping into niche markets, embracing diversity can lead to innovative and impactful outcomes.

 

Q4: In what ways do you believe photography can be a catalyst for cultural exchange and economic growth in Nigeria?

Photography has the power to transcend barriers and bridge gaps between communities. By capturing and sharing diverse stories, photographers can promote cultural understanding and celebrate the richness of Nigeria’s heritage. Moreover, the creative industries, including photography, have the potential to drive economic growth by attracting investments, creating jobs, and promoting tourism.

Through initiatives like BOP and collaborations with international partners, we can showcase Nigeria’s vibrant culture to the world while also creating economic opportunities for local creatives. By investing in the development of our creative ecosystem and nurturing emerging talent, we can harness the full potential of photography as a catalyst for both cultural exchange and economic prosperity.

Q5: As the convener of the Business of Photography Conference, what challenges have you encountered in advocating for the recognition and support of photographers as entrepreneurs?

One of the main challenges we’ve faced is changing the perception of photography as merely a hobby or side gig, rather than a legitimate business endeavour. Many people underestimate the amount of skill, dedication, and investment required to succeed in the industry. As a result, photographers often struggle to gain recognition and access the support they need to thrive.

However, through initiatives like BOP, we’ve been able to raise awareness about the entrepreneurial aspects of photography and provide practical resources for aspiring entrepreneurs. By highlighting success stories and facilitating networking opportunities, we hope to shift the narrative and foster greater respect for photography as a viable career path.

Q6: How do you envision the role of government and financial institutions in fostering growth within the creative industry, particularly in the field of photography?

Government and financial institutions play a crucial role in creating an enabling environment for the creative industry to flourish. This includes implementing supportive policies, providing access to funding and grants, and investing in infrastructure and education. By recognizing the economic potential of the creative sector and prioritizing its development, policymakers can stimulate innovation, job creation, and cultural enrichment.

Additionally, collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential for driving sustainable growth in photography and other creative fields. By working together to address challenges such as copyright protection, licensing regulations, and market access, we can create a more vibrant and resilient ecosystem for creatives to thrive.

Q7: What steps do you recommend for photographers who are looking to turn their passion into a sustainable business?

First and foremost, it’s essential to hone your craft and develop a distinctive style that sets you apart from others in the industry. Invest in continuous learning and skill development to stay ahead of the curve.

Next, focus on building a strong brand identity and establishing a professional online presence through a website and social media platforms. Networking and collaborating with other creatives can also help you expand your reach and discover new opportunities.

From a business perspective, prioritize financial management and budgeting to ensure sustainability in the long run. Finally, never stop advocating for the value of your work, and be proactive in seeking out opportunities to monetize your skills and expertise.

 

Q8: How do you balance the artistic aspects of photography with the practicalities of running a successful business, both personally and in your role as Creative Director of Insigna Media Production Limited?

Finding the balance between artistry and business is a constant juggling act, but it’s essential to maintain both aspects to succeed in the industry. I strive to stay true to my creative vision while also being mindful of the commercial viability of my work.

As Creative Director of Insigna Media, I lead by example by fostering a culture of creativity and innovation within the team while also emphasizing the importance of professionalism and strategic thinking. By striking the right balance between artistic expression and business acumen, we can create impactful visual content that resonates with our clients and audience alike.

 

Q9: What advice do you have for aspiring photographers who are navigating the challenges of building their brand and finding their niche in the industry?

My advice to aspiring photographers is to stay true to themselves and their unique vision. Don’t be afraid to experiment and explore different styles and genres until you find what resonates with you. Building a personal brand is all about authenticity, so focus on telling your story and connecting with your audience on a deeper level.

Additionally, don’t underestimate the power of networking and building relationships within the industry. Collaborating with other creatives can open doors to new opportunities and help you gain valuable insights and feedback.

Finally, be patient and persistent in pursuing your goals. Success in photography, like any other profession, takes time and effort, so stay committed to your craft and never stop learning and growing.

Q10: In your opinion, what are the most significant opportunities and trends shaping the future of photography, particularly in the Nigerian context?

One of the most significant opportunities in the Nigerian context is the growing demand for visual content across various industries, from advertising and media to e-commerce and entertainment. As more businesses recognize the importance of high-quality imagery in engaging their audience, there’s a burgeoning market for skilled photographers who can deliver compelling visual narratives.

Moreover, advancements in technology, such as smartphone photography and social media platforms, have democratized the art form and made it more accessible to a wider audience. This presents both challenges and opportunities for photographers to adapt to changing consumer behaviours and explore new ways of creating and sharing their work.

Additionally, there’s a growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion in the creative industry, with increasing recognition of the need to amplify marginalized voices and narratives. Photographers who can authentically capture and represent the rich tapestry of Nigerian culture and society stand to thrive in this evolving landscape.

Overall, the future of photography in Nigeria is bright and full of possibilities and I’m excited to see how emerging talents will continue to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation in the years to come.

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Thank you for joining us in this meaningful conversation with Kola Oshalusi. His journey is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and strategic thinking in transforming an art form into a sustainable business. From his early days of capturing life’s moments in Lagos to founding Insigna Media and pioneering the Business of Photography Conference, Kola has continually pushed the boundaries of what’s possible. We hope his insights have inspired you to merge your creative pursuits with entrepreneurial endeavours successfully. Stay connected with us for more inspiring stories and invaluable industry insights. Until next time, keep capturing and creating.