THANDIWE MURIU, 22, is a keen eye behind a camera’s lense whose works have been recognised beyond Kenya’s boundaries. She spoke to SHIRLEY GENGA about her juggle between school and her unwavering passion for photography.

What do you do for a living?

I am a self-employed fashion and commercial photographer.

What does your job entail?

The core part of my job is to turn the image in my client’s minds into reality. This involves coming up with shoot concepts by working with stylists, shoot directors and the client. Sourcing for locations and props to be used in the shoots as well as picking the correct lighting to be used in a shoot, is also art of the job description. Last but not least, I edit the final images on computer after the shoot.

Is this your first job and if not, what is your job history?

Yes, this is my first job and I cannot imagine doing anything else. I have, however, done internships with several photographers prior to working on my own.

When did you first get into photography and what was the inspiration behind the career choice?

I began a year ago. After doing internships with different established photographers, I began to get a lot of requests to photograph models and after some time at it, it seemed only natural to become a full-time photographer.

What do you think makes you stand out as a photographer?

I am very creative. I like to experiment with risky or unusual concepts. High quality photographs are my top priority and as such, I do not compromise on quality.

What are your favourite photography assignments?

I enjoy doing beauty photography, which usually involves shots of the face. The face is very versatile. It has so many interesting features and structures that you can work with, from the eyes to the lips.

What do you love about your job?

I love the fact that I get to be creative. No photo shoot is the same and as a photographer, you always have to think on your feet.  The second best thing about my job is the fact that no day is boring.

What are some of the challenges you have faced as a new and upcoming photographer?

The biggest challenge one faces as a photographer is the fact that photography equipment is expensive. It took me a long time to save up for my current equipment. It is also not easy being a new photographer as clients tend to prefer experienced names. One, therefore, has to work extra hard at every job in order to gain the trust of clients.

What was your childhood dream?

My childhood dream was to be a veterinary doctor and open a practice with my best friend, but somewhere along the way, I picked up a camera and everything changed.

What are you studying on campus?

I am studying an undergraduate degree in International Business Administration (Marketing) at USIU. I am graduating next

year.

How do you balance school and photography?

It is not always easy, but I have learnt, over time, that the best way to balance both is to schedule specific times for each. When I am at work, I give it my all and when it is school time, I also work very hard.

What are your future plans?

I want to become one of Africa’s leading fashion and beauty photographers. I hope to grow my name as a photographer to the point of getting assignments across the continent.

What is your highest career achievement so far?

Having my work published outside Kenya. Some of my photos were featured in Africa Digital; that was a huge achievement for me.

What do you do for fun away from work and school?

I am an avid reader. I love sports and enjoy spending time with my family and friends. My field of work is my passion, so when I’m not doing an assignment for clients, I do personal photography projects.

Any advice for young people?

Find a job that you are passionate about. Do not take a job just because it pays well; instead, pick something you are passionate about, that you do not mind doing for free. Last, do not be afraid to dream big.