Funmi James is one of Nigeria’s hardworking and upcoming photographers, rapidly working her way to popularity.
She is the official photographer for Aww storeNg, an online fashion store, and she is the chief executive officer of Moe Studios.
Although a graduate of Agric Economics from Ladoke Akintola University (LAUTECH), she followed her passion— photography— because she has always been immersed in taking pictures and creating memories. She decided to extend her passion to other people and help them document their best moments into beautiful memories. She is happy to be a photographer and to thrive in a business dominated by men.
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She started her business with N200, 000 in 2016 while serving as a National Youth Corps Service (NYSC) member. It was a loan and she utilised it by purchasing important instruments necessary for setting up of her business.
“Starting a business in Nigeria is not easy, but because I was passionate about it and I was encouraged by my family and friends, I did not give up” she says.
Since Funmi started her business, she has worked on improving herself and building her clientele. This, she has been able to achieve to a reasonable extent. The entrepreneur has been able to record progressive growth in her skills and profits, which she attributes to the kind of friendly relationship established with the clients. She has also successfully registered her business with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Major challenges she encounters include: getting the necessary but very expensive instruments, securing clients, and unstable electricity. The entrepreneur wants the government to implement policies that will aid start-ups, especially access to cheap funds. She likewise also wants more training, workshops, seminars that will help the players to improve.
Speaking on her business expansion plans, Funmi says she plans to get a studio that will serve as a training institute for prospective photographers, partner with event mangers in order to have consistent clientele and also incorporate video coverage, which she can employ someone for.
She attends trainings and works with top- notch photographers, which gives her necessary experience and knowledge. She has acquired certifications from various institutes, including Red Media Africa.
Funmi looks up to and follows Bayo Omoboriowo, Buhari’s official photographer whom she hopes to meet. Her life’s values are hard work, dedication, learning and prayer, which have worked for her over the years, even before she became a photographer.
Advising other entrepreneurs, she says, “It is not easy but with hard work and determination, it will be worth it.”
Gbemi Faminu
