By Theresa Donatus, Uyo
Leading photographers, visual artists, and creative professionals have called on Nigerian creatives to combine ethical storytelling with professionalism and strong personal branding to strengthen the country’s growing creative economy.
They made the call during the 2025 Visuals Conference and Photography Awards, held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Saturday, The Visual Conference 2025 was themed: Get Equipped To Be Relevant in The Future of Creativity.
The event designed to contribute to the human capital and economic value development of creatives while enhancing the overall growth of the photography and visual arts industry in Nigeria.
The conference, convened by Ms. Idara Adiakpan, Special Assistant/ chief photographer to Governor Umo Eno, the executive governor of Akwa Ibom State, brought together leading voices in photography, creative entrepreneurship, and media to inspire and empower the next generation of image-makers.
Speaking during the opening session, Ms. Adiakpan said her vision was to build a sustainable platform for photographers and creatives through a community give-back initiative and an award program that recognizes the timeless works of impact-makers and trailblazers in visual arts.
She noted that the Visuals Conference also marked the celebration of her 30th birthday, adding that it was her way of giving back to the creative community that had shaped her journey.
“There is a growing international marketplace of ideas, talents, and opportunities, to access that marketplace, creatives must become timeless in their thinking and deliberate about personal development. I believe in the creative possibilities of every participant here and remain committed to providing the needed platforms to help them thrive.” she revealed
The conference featured multiple sessions led by seasoned photographers and media experts, including Hon. Aisha Augie-Kuta, Kelechi Amadi-Obi, Emmanuel Oyeleke, and Eduwen Ukpong, among others.
Delivering a keynote on “Sustainability of New Media and Visual Journalism,” Hon. Aisha Augie-Kuta, Director-General of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilization (CBAAC), and a renowned photojournalist, urged creatives to balance artistic freedom with ethical responsibility.
Augie-Kuta, who has been a photographer and filmmaker for over 25 years, stressed that creators must be conscious of the cultural and social impact of their visuals, especially when documenting sensitive communities.
“Storytelling is powerful, a photograph can transform narratives, but it can also distort them if approached without empathy or understanding. Creators must always consider the cultural authenticity and ethical implications of their work.” she said
She added that media, both traditional and new remains vital tools for shaping perceptions, promoting development, and communicating policies, citing Akwa Ibom’s A.R.I.S.E Agenda as an example of effective visual communication.
Augie-Kuta further emphasized collaboration, cultural documentation, and the importance of local history, encouraging photographers to “learn, unlearn, and relearn” in order to stay relevant in an evolving digital world.
In his presentation on “Marketing and Branding for Photographers,” Mr. Eduwem Ukpong, the creative director of Photofreak, urged photographers to complement their talent with professionalism and strategic personal branding.
“Talent alone is not enough, People patronize you because you look professional and carry yourself with confidence. Your pricing should be standard, and you must learn to collaborate with others such as makeup artists, barbers, stylists, to create full visual experiences.” he said
He advised photographers to maintain consistent presentation and composure, noting that first impressions often determine client retention and referrals.
Speaking on “Visual Storytelling for Cultural Impact,” celebrated photographer Emmanuel Oyekele, visual artist/creative director of Emmanuel Oyekele photography, highlighted the power of photography as a cultural export tool.
“Pictures tell stories that define identity, through visuals, we can export African culture, our colors, fashion, food, and traditions to the world.”Oyekele said
He urged photographers to find their unique storytelling voice, remain authentic, and document themselves as creators.
He also encouraged the use of AI tools to enhance storytelling while maintaining originality and cultural commentary.
Renowned celebrity photographer Kelechi Amadi-Obi and creative director of Kelechi Amadi-obi studios challenged participants to discover their uniqueness and avoid the pressure of trends.
“If what you do looks like everyone else’s, then you haven’t found yourself,” he said. “Your creativity should reflect your DNA which is unique, original, and timeless.”
He emphasized the importance of passion, patience, and mastery, urging photographers to grow steadily, understand their craft, and push beyond limitations.
“Don’t chase fame; chase excellence. When you master light, composition, and purpose, recognition will follow naturally,” he added.
The 2025 Visuals Conference concluded with a panel on collaboration, digital opportunities, and the future of photography in Nigeria. Speakers agreed that strategic partnerships, digital storytelling, and professional ethics remain key drivers for sustainable growth in the creative sector.
Participants were also encouraged to continue networking, documenting local stories, and using their craft to foster social change and community development.
With its inspiring sessions and recognition of creative excellence, the Visuals Conference 2025 reaffirmed Uyo’s growing status as one of Nigeria’s emerging hubs for visual arts and creative innovation.
