Contributor Spotlight: An interview with Otobong Samuel
In this spotlight, Samuel shares how storytelling became the heart of his creative journey, and why staying true to your vision is the most powerful tool any photographer can have.
From the vibrant streets of Uyo to the evolving creative landscape of Nigeria, Samuel’s journey as a photographer and creative director is a testament to the power of raw passion and purpose-driven storytelling. What started with a smartphone and a curious eye has grown into a career built on emotion, narrative, and African pride.
In this spotlight, we explore how Samuel is not just capturing moments but shaping conversations - blending art, culture, and direction to give life to stories that often go untold. As a proud contributor on Ninthgrid, he continues to use his lens to amplify everyday beauty and the richness of African identity.
Let’s dive into his journey.
Tell us about your professional background and your journey so far
Born and raised in the city of Uyo, Nigeria, I was always drawn to the art of storytelling. The culture, textures, and bustling energy of my hometown became the backdrop for my earliest inspirations. Photography, for me, was more than just capturing images—it was a way to visualize emotions, preserve fleeting moments, and give voice to stories that demanded to be told.
My journey began with a smartphone camera and an unrelenting passion for the craft. I started by documenting local events and everyday life, delving into the beauty of candid expressions and raw human connections. It wasn’t long before I realized that my vision extended beyond the lens; I had a natural flair for bringing ideas to life, leading teams, and creating narratives that resonated on a deeper level. This realization paved the way for my transition into creative direction.
Each chapter of my career has been marked by growth and learning. Whether it was mastering the technical aspects of photography, collaborating with diverse talents, or overcoming the unique challenges of creative projects, every step shaped me into the professional I am today. I’ve been privileged to work on projects with amazing creatives like Arsharvin John that span personal passion pieces to large-scale campaigns, each one reinforcing my commitment to excellence and innovation.
What fuels your creativity and keeps you passionate about your craft?
As a creative director and photographer, my work is guided by a singular mission: to inspire, connect, and give voice to stories that needs to be told. Through my lens and vision, I strive to amplify voices, celebrate diversity, and reveal the extraordinary in the everyday. My journey is far from over, and I’m excited to continue evolving, creating, and sharing stories that leave a lasting impact.
How did you discover ninthgrid and what inspired you to start contributing to Ninthgrid?
I discovered Ninthgrid through a friend, Abasiofon Bassey. A graphic designer and illustrator. It happened that at the time, I didn’t have the platform to share my works online. But Thanks to Ninthgrid, I am able to be a part of contributing to the growth of Afrocentric Images.
Tell us about one of your images on Ninthgrid.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your field?
Starting out as a creative director and photographer can be thrilling and challenging.
Here’s some advice I’d offer to help you thrive in the field:
1. Hone Your Craft: Master the technical aspects of photography: lighting, composition, editing, and storytelling. For creative direction, learn how to communicate ideas clearly and lead teams effectively. Explore various styles and niches to find your unique voice, but don’t be afraid to experiment—it’s through trial and error that you’ll grow.
2. Build a Portfolio: Start with personal projects or collaborations that showcase your skills and vision. Your portfolio should tell a cohesive story about who you are as a creative. Keep it updated with your best work and tailor it to the type of clients or projects you want to attract.
3. Network and Collaborate: Connect with other creatives, mentors, and professionals in the industry. Attend workshops, exhibitions, and online communities where you can exchange ideas and opportunities. Collaboration is key—working with others will expose you to new perspectives and push you to think outside the box.
4. Embrace Challenges: Understand that the creative journey is rarely linear. There will be setbacks, rejected ideas, and demanding clients. See every challenge as an opportunity to learn and adapt. Stay open to feedback—it’s a vital part of growing as a professional.
5. Stay Inspired: Immerse yourself in art, films, music, literature, and the works of other photographers and directors. Inspiration can strike from the most unexpected places.
If you loved this conversation and would like to know more about Samuel, you can find check out his portfolio here and find him on X here
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