Welcome to the launch of one of London's top photography blogs, where I showcase and interview some of the world's most talented creative photographers.
For our first feature, I want you to meet Awelewa Charles, an award-winning photographer renowned for his captivating and thought-provoking perspective. Born in Nigeria and now living in Canada, Awelewa uses photography as an outlet to express his darkest traumas, turning his pain into pure artistry.
The thought-provoking themes throughout his photography made me question my own creative process. It made me reflect on whether I'm truly pushing the boundaries within my own career. Am I using the things I care about the most to create images with deeper meanings? Should I be making political statements through my photography?
I can be hard on myself sometimes, but I also recognise that writing this blog is my way of inspiring and connecting with creatives all around the world.
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Road To Zion
I was instantly drawn to Awelewa's work when I came across his portrait project, Road to Zion, on Twitter. This incredible project stopped me in my tracks. The warm tones, the shadows, the sea, and the location made me pause and sit in my thoughts.
I found myself eager to know more. Who is the woman in the image ? What's her story ? Where did she come from ? Is this a moment of liberation ?
There's a special place in my heart for photographers who are able to capture cinematic moments. When viewing Road To Zion I felt like I should be sitting in a movie theatre, with sweet popcorn in my hand, cheesy nachos with jalapeños where does that come from?on the side, reclining my seat, eager to know the origins.
"Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee" - Awelewa Charles
Kaptured by KaGe:Â Were there moments when you put the camera down and just absorbed the scene for yourself ? What were those moments like?
Awelewa:Â Before I shoot, I immerse myself in the environment, get familiar with the scenery, connect deeply with her essence and then I shoot with my mind while I hold the camera in my hands. This was no exception. In this shoot, the moment felt like a taste of Heaven.
Kaptured by KaGe: Some photographers take in being a true artists, embedding hidden messages for their loyal fans to discover. Are there any Easter eggs (hints) about your life in this picture?
Awelewa: Yes, there is, but it's more about the subject in the photo. When I photograph someone, I capture their essence. It is the photo that reveals her spiritual strength. The powerful being concealed by the beauty and tenderness of the young woman.
Kaptured by KaGe: Your work looks very cinematic. Would you ever consider producing a short film or silent movie ? If so, can I be featured in it ? haha
Awelewa: Thank you! That's a huge compliment. I look forward to doing that someday soon. Of course you can be featured! I have your contact haha!
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Achievements
In life, we often seek outside validation and forget that what truly matters is how we use what we already have. Unless you have a strong imagination, you may struggle to see the potential in things or be willing to experiment. Sadly, this creativity often fades as we grow older, become financially stable and get comfortable with life. We set specific goals and use the money we earn to achieve them. If we don't earn the money, we don't achieve the goal.
In photography, it's easy to make excuses for why we cant achieve certain things, mainly because photography studios are expensive, camera equipment costs thousands of pounds, and marketing adds another financial burden. On top of that, you have to be your own boss, network, and manage everything yourself. But what's stopping you from capturing images on your phone? What's stopping you from using what you already have to create and achieve your own goals?
Awelewa Charles created an award winning image and his favourite image of all time, using a simple device: a phone. So again, what's stopping you ?

This image won Best Mobile Phone Photograph in the world in 2021 - Awelewa Charles
Awelewa: This photo was taken on a phone in 2020 at the backyard of my home. It created a domino effect of recognitions for my art and my other works years later. I believe the photo still has much greater works to do. It will change my life forever.
Kaptured by KaGe: That's incredible! I think i'll challenge myself to capture images on my phone, focusing on nature. I love the blossoms in spring. I think it's important to celebrate your achievements, no matter how big or small, so I'd love to know what your greatest achievement of 2024 was?
Awelewa: Amongst many other achievements, hosting a free photography workshop at the University of Toronto stands out. Being able to impact lives through my perspective was priceless. It surpasses any award and exhibition.
The Beauty Within You

Kaptured by KaGe: Heritage is incredibly important, and although you live in Canada now, I would love to know what it was like growing up in Nigeria. What did you enjoy doing for fun as a kid ?
Awelewa: I kind of skipped childhood. But pprinting and jumping over stairs was my thing for fun.
Kaptured by KaGe: What's your go to Nigerian dish ? Mine is Jollof rice, Pounded yam and Egusi Oh and Puff Puffs haha.
Awelewa: Semo and Egusi! I don't know what people have against Semo. You need to see the light!

Kaptured by KaGe: Photography can be a form of healing. How has being a concept art photographer helped you process or heal from childhood trauma?
Awelewa As I grew older, I became the quiet child in the room. I grew to swallow my problems and deal with it on my own till it became an addiction and I was comfortable in it. Photography gave me an outlet to share my darkest trauma to the world in a subtle way, using colours as a tool to shell my vulnerability. Drawing darkness with light, and painting pain with colours.
Kaptured by KaGe: Your work feels intense, rich, and thought-provoking. Would you say those qualities reflect your personality, or is it something separate from who you are?
Awelewa My art is my autobiography; my life story; It is a mirror of my true self. It appears dormant in person but only a few can recognise it.
Kaptured by KaGe: What's one thing you adore about yourself that you wish others could appreciate it ?Â
Awelewa:Â The power of my mind. I feel I haven't maximised it's potential yet

Kaptured by KaGe: As we wrap up the interview, I'm truly grateful for your willingness to be the first person we interview and for letting us into your world. You should be incredibly proud of yourself and I can't wait to see what 2025 brings you to close could you share a quote with our readers to live by?
Awelewa: Hold on to the things that makes you weird
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