Behind the lens

Barbara Minishi is a photographer of note whose decision to strike out on her own has proved fruitful, she talks to NELLY OBADHA

Have you always wanted to be a photographer?

I grew up loving art and history; these were my two favorite subjects when in high school. I have always had a vivid imagination. Photography was something I did on the side.

 Initially, I believe I may have developed the interest from my father who was an avid fun and was always keen to record family events. Through him and with his camera, I started shooting for fun and it progressed from then.

 In campus, I continued with this interest. In fact, I was known as the chick that always had a camera. I graduated with a Bachelors degree in Communication. Soon after that I came to realise my passion for photography was much deeper and I chose to take it up entirely as a career and profession.

What happened after graduation?

After being hit by the ‘A-Ha!’ moment, I took action and researched the industry to see who and where I could learn from. This led me to a professional photographer called Duncan Willets who, after noting my genuine interest and diligence to work, agreed to allow me on as an intern.

Interning for him was an incredible eye opener. I got firsthand experience on the rigors and process of photography. Client relations, managing and directing a shoot, lighting and shooting…each one is important and needs a person with these multi-skills to coordinate.

After a while, I got to meet Carol Wahome of Moo Cow. I assisted her on one of the first ever True Love magazine fashion shoots and got to meet David Beatty, a notable fashion and beauty photographer who I then ended up assisting for the next four years. Learning from two respected photographers gave me a look into two separate working methodologies to achieve a similar result and enhanced my overall outlook on photography.

How did you manage to go out on your own?

Going out on my own was, and still is not easy. It takes time to develop ones skill and reputation. There is a common misnomer that just because a camera is a commodity that every mwananchi can access (camera phones also), then people don’t see the need for a professional. I have pots and pans and a great oven but that does not make me a chef.

Challenges are an everyday occurrence. Photography is actually a problem-solving career. Whatever brief you receive from a client has to be translated visually. Yes, technical skills are mandatory and so is an innate eye. Understanding mood lighting, body nuances, contextual backgrounds…it all has to be included.

Who were the greatest inspirations in your career?

My guiding light and motivation comes from both an internal and an external structure but I would like to stress that were it not for my family who are my primary foundation I would not be where I am

Describe a typical day of work?

Each working day is totally different, one day it may be a shoot, the next day may be editing, or sourcing materials for a shoot or meetings with clients. Nothing is typical and there is no formula or structured workday that resembles the 8am to 5pm office work schedule. However, the same work ethic of responsibility, delivery, honesty and respect are mandatory.

What is the biggest achievement you have had so far?

Every project I have been part of is special in its own way. No single job or client is superior to the others. Resting on previous success or despairing in disappointment is pointless when you are in the now.

Do you think photography is a profession that is greatly appreciated in Kenya?

In its own little way, yes, however, it is unfortunate that there is no school of professional photography in Kenya. I acknowledge that there are many self-taught photographers all over including myself but there is no environment within that can make it accessible to people.