Before Hamodu Kazeem was appointed the official photographer of Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, he’s worked for a minister in Ghana. His love for photography needs no introduction. In this interview with TheTabloid.net, one famously called Hamkaz reveals a number of facts about his trajectory. Excerpts
How and when did you become a photographer?
I was challenged into photography back in 2009, shortly after completing my Industrial Training attachment (National Diploma) at the FCMB, Dugbe Branch, Ibadan as a Banking and Finance student. At the time, I used to visit a cybercafé in Agbowo Shopping Complex, and there was a photo studio nearby. One of the operators told me outright that I could never learn photography and even if I tried, it would take me 10–16 years to understand the craft. As a young, eager boy who loved learning, that statement challenged me deeply. I started reading every photography book and took tutorials on There were no YouTube. The only problem was that I didn’t know how to get the software professionals used.
One day, the manager of the same studio where I was challenged asked me to help her download music to her JAVA/SYMBIAN phone. While I was there, a man walked in and also needed music because he had just formatted his laptop. He later turned out to be a professional photographer. I told him, ‘Sir, I’ll give you all the music you want, but in exchange, please give me just one thing Photoshop.’ He agreed, and that was how my practical journey began. I started practicing immediately, and the entire shopping complex became familiar with my work and my growth. With time, I became the only operator managing the same studio where I was once told I couldn’t learn photography. My salary was doubled far more than the person who said I wouldn’t succeed because I brought more value: photo editing, video editing, camera handling, graphics, and much more. That challenge became the fire that shaped my photography journey.
Who taught you photography and for how long?
I’m largely self-taught, but I also learnt from a combination of mentors, workshops, and practical experience. I watched great photographers work, studied their styles, and practiced consistently day and night. My biggest teachers have been patience, consistency, and real-life assignments. Every job refined me, every mistake strengthened me, and every opportunity pushed me closer to mastery.
When did you buy your first camera and how did you feel?
I bought my first camera a Canon EOS 700D during my time in Ghana, while working with the former Minister of Finance as an assistant photographer and photo editor. To support myself and improve my income, I also did side jobs with some Chinese photo labs in Accra. Those extra efforts helped me save enough to finally purchase the camera I had always dreamed of. Before then, I had been using an old Olympus camera given to me by my former boss when I left the studio to pursue my HND. So, the day I finally bought my own camera, I felt truly accomplished. It was more than a purchase; it was a personal milestone. It felt like a confirmation that my journey in photography was real, growing, and fully mine.
Where did you work before now?
Before becoming the official photographer to Governor of Osun State, I had worked across different sectors as a freelance photographer in media, events, corporate environments, portraits, model, work as the official documentary photographer for His Royal Majesty Oba Dr. Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, Laminisa 1, the Timi of Ede and political documentation of several highly profile politicians. I also worked in Ghana with former Minister of Finance Seth Terkper, which gave me the opportunity to document former President John Dramani Mahama. Each role broadened my experience and prepared me for bigger responsibilities.
What does it take to cover Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke?
Covering Governor Ademola Adeleke takes discipline, sharp instincts, speed, and a deep sense of responsibility. You must always be alert because leadership moments happen in seconds you cannot afford to miss them. It also takes understanding his personality, movements, and energy so you can anticipate and capture the right moments. Most importantly, it requires loyalty, professionalism, and the ability to tell the governor’s story with dignity and truth.
What feedback have you received so far over the governor’s pictures you snapped?
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Many people say my images capture the governor’s humanity, charisma, and leadership in a way they’ve never seen before. Some describe the images as “powerful,” “presidential,” and “refreshing.” Others say my work has helped them see the governor in a different light. Hearing this inspires me to keep improving and to continue telling his story with excellence.
What’s your vision for the profession?
My vision is to use photography as a tool for storytelling, empowerment, and global recognition. I want to build a visual brand that represents African leadership, culture, and humanity on the world stage. I hope to inspire young creatives, especially in Osun State, and create platforms where photographers can grow, learn, and thrive. Ultimately, I want my work to outlive me to become part of history, to shape narratives, and to open doors for the next generation.
Published on April 4, 2026
Leave a Reply