13 Best Photographers in Nigeria for Weddings & Portraits

TY Bello began as a musician, but photography quickly became another avenue where her artistic voice flourished. Her portraits are rooted in emotion, often blending a sense of intimacy with raw realism. Whether she’s photographing everyday people on the streets or high-profile figures—including several Nigerian presidents—her images consistently feel deeply personal.

Her ability to uncover grace and strength in her subjects is part of what sets her apart. She often uses photography as a tool for social impact, amplifying causes like breast cancer awareness and HIV advocacy.

Combining the eye of an artist with the technical precision of a lawyer-turned-photographer, Kelechi Amadi-Obi’s portraits radiate confidence and beauty. He’s earned a reputation in fashion circles and among celebrities for his striking compositions that emphasize elegance, expression, and individuality.

From magazine covers to personal commissions, Amadi-Obi has worked with countless names and institutions, always bringing a painter’s touch to his photography. His role in bettering Nigeria’s visual narrative—both artistically and commercially—is hard to overlook. His work effortlessly blends aesthetics with storytelling, especially in fashion editorials where bold color and dramatic lighting meet cultural depth.

With over 20 years in the industry, Shola Animashaun has built an identity rooted in cultural documentation. His photographs often depict the everyday richness of Nigerian life—from street scenes to family portraits, celebrations to quiet moments. What makes his style notable is his natural ability to draw emotion from the ordinary.

He’s worked with organizations like UNICEF and various arms of the Nigerian government, but his personal projects are just as compelling. Through his lens, Nigeria’s diverse stories are told with sincerity and a strong sense of pride in place and people.

Known for her monochrome mastery, Yetunde Ayeni-Babaeko brings a cinematic depth to black-and-white portraiture. Her images often center on themes of identity, strength, and femininity—particularly through the lens of African womanhood.

She doesn’t shy away from topics that challenge societal norms or provoke thought. Her photo series tends to carry a sense of quiet rebellion, elevating voices that are often unheard. Her commitment to telling women’s stories—through rich textures, shadows, and emotion—places her among Nigeria’s most thoughtful visual artists.

Adeola Olagunju’s documentary approach focuses on the unfiltered realities of everyday Nigerians. Her work doesn’t chase drama or spectacle; instead, it leans into the honest and often overlooked narratives within communities.

Her strength lies in her subtlety. Through her series and exhibitions, Adeola captures the poetry in routine life—moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. Her photography invites viewers to pause and pay attention, offering nuanced insight into what it means to live and exist in Nigeria today.

Stephen Tayo brings vibrancy and attitude to every frame. Known for his street-style portraits, his images feel alive, pulsing with texture, fashion, and emotion. Whether shooting cultural icons or ordinary people with flair, his photography thrives on individuality.

Tayo’s collaborations with global platforms like Vogue, The New York Times, and CNN have broadened the reach of his work. But at its core, his photography remains grounded in culture and character—often shot in natural light with a reverence for his subjects. His ability to fuse style with sincerity is part of what makes his portraits so magnetic.

Lakin Ogunbanwo’s portraits are nothing short of bold. Using sharp colors, stylized backdrops, and clean composition, he modernizes African studio photography with a high-fashion edge. His work draws from the ideas of mid-century Nigerian photographers while pushing into contemporary territory.

He’s been featured in Vogue Italia, GQ, and the New York Times, and he continues to exhibit internationally. His use of symbolism, color, and form often explores themes like masculinity, identity, and tradition, rendered in a style that is both polished and provocative.

Though based between Nigeria and the UK, Nadine Ijewere’s cultural roots are deeply embedded in her creative vision. She became the first woman of color to shoot a cover for Vogue in its 125-year history, breaking long-standing industry boundaries.

Her portraits often celebrate natural beauty and cultural authenticity. With a soft yet intentional touch, Nadine centers her subjects in ways that celebrate diversity without exoticizing it. Her photos appear in publications like i-D, British Vogue, and WSJ Magazine, carrying a calm yet unmistakable confidence.

Weddings are emotional rollercoasters, and Bedge Pictures rides every wave with remarkable grace. Founded by Emeka Amafor, this photography collective specializes in capturing those fleeting yet powerful moments—glances, laughter, and subtle gestures.

Their approach is collaborative and travel-friendly, making them a favorite among destination wedding planners. Every frame feels curated but never staged, blending cinematic energy with genuine emotion. For those seeking timeless documentation of their big day, Bedge Pictures delivers with quiet confidence.

Led by Adeyemi Olatunde, Shutterwave Photography crafts visuals that blur the line between fantasy and realism. Their wedding and fashion work often carries a theatrical quality—rich with shadow play, sharp angles, and vibrant contrasts.

Adeyemi’s vision stands out because of his attention to detail and willingness to experiment. Whether he’s photographing a traditional Yoruba ceremony or a high-fashion editorial, the end result is always immersive. Their team frequently travels across Nigeria, turning each location into a canvas for bold expression.

Photofreak Studios has a knack for capturing energy and personality. Their wedding portraits often strike a balance between posed beauty and candid charm. From preparation to reception, their team functions with precision, ensuring every moment is accounted for.

What elevates their portfolio is the emotional clarity in every shot. Their portraits don’t just show people smiling—they show comfort, connection, and spontaneity. It’s a style rooted in visual honesty and professional reliability.

Said Mhamad’s style leans toward the surreal. Brides in his portraits appear as though they’ve stepped out of a fairy tale, dressed in sweeping fabrics and lit like characters from a dream sequence. His use of color, light, and backdrop creates an ethereal atmosphere.

Though not Nigeria-based, his influence on Nigerian wedding photography is undeniable. His work is widely shared and often emulated by photographers across West Africa who admire his luxurious aesthetic.

In Abuja, Arshavin John is known for his bespoke approach to wedding photography. Each project begins with a detailed discussion, ensuring the final images match the couple’s vision. His shoots are intentional, his compositions are clean, and his delivery is consistently refined.

He’s not about quantity—John limits his work to a select number of weddings each year, dedicating ample time to each. This dedication results in portraits that feel personal, warm, and enduring.

And Finally…

Whether it’s through fashion editorials, street portraits, or wedding ceremonies, these photographers have each carved a lane with undeniable vision. Their work continues to influence how stories are told visually—not just in Nigeria but around the world.

You can get a sense of this vision when reviewing cameras that support these artists’ craft. For instance, the Canon G7X Mark II is a popular choice for its performance. Find out what it costs in Nigeria in this detailed pricing guide.

Article updated 4 days ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.