Esther Umoh, a poet and the Chief Executive Officer of Pendrops Photography, tells BLESSING ENENAITE about her career and other issues
What influenced your decision to become a photographer, and how long have you been practising?
Depression influenced my decision to become a photographer. I am a poet and a creative person. I decided to open a photography studio as a business, and I had someone manage it for me. At a point, the person managing it left and I was confused. It led me to a bad state. However, in August 2022, I underwent training in photography.
What are the challenges you have faced so far in your career?
Photography is quite expensive and not as cheap as people might think it is. The financial aspect, and being able to master the craft itself are the two challenges for me.
What are your notable works so far?
Working with the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, is one of my major works so far. Also, taking the picture of the teenage boy on the road who stood in front of Obi’s motorcade when we went for a (presidential) rally in Lagos, is one of my notable pictures so far.
How did you feel after the picture of that teenager went viral?
I initially did not know I took that picture. I was just taking random photos, trying to capture moments, because one does not know which particular picture might be the best. I posted all the pictures. It was after the event that I went on Twitter and I saw that people were talking about it. I was surprised and happy, because after that picture went viral, people recognised the boy. He was helped and taken back to school. That was really fulfilling for me.
Did you get any benefits from that picture?
No, I did not. However, I believe that all rewards come from God.
You were one of Peter Obi’s official photographers during the presidential campaign. How would you describe your experience working with him?
I think anyone that sees Obi will be excited. Imagine having to work with him all through the campaign period almost every day; those were practically the happiest days of my life. When he was the governor of Anambra State, I was in secondary school, so, I did not really know much about him. Fast forward to the presidential elections, I had to read up on him, and I was really impressed, especially with him saying that he had never stolen any government money. I believe him because nobody has come out to refute his claims. To me, that indicated integrity. My father is also someone who does not joke with his integrity. It felt good to see someone else who represented what my dad and my family represents.
After working with Obi, my perception of him has become even more positive. He loves getting things done. Nothing is impossible with him, and inasmuch as it is doable, one cannot tell him that it is not doable. He loves to go for what he wants.
The elections caused a lot of rancour, with many relationships being negatively affected. Did you have a similar experience?
Yes, I did. I had to ‘block’ many people (on social media). I consider anyone who does not want a better Nigeria to be an enemy of the country.
Tell us about your family and educational background?
I am from Akwa Ibom State. I studied Communication Arts at the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom. My dad worked with the Independent National Electoral Commission for about 35 years. Until his retirement, he was an administrative secretary at INEC. I am the fifth of seven children.
My mum is a businesswoman, but she is currently serving her people as the Vice Chairman of Udunguko Local Government in Akwa Ibom.
You once stated that four of your siblings are lawyers. Why did you decide to toe a different path?
It was a matter of choice. I could have also become a lawyer, but I decided not to toe that line. Also, I used to be really interested in football, but I could not play. So, my dad said I should go into football commentary. That was why I decided to study Communication Arts.
You dress like a tomboy. Have you always been that way?
I don’t really have a reason for the way I dress. I just want to be free (comfortable). One thing one should not do to a creative is to gag them. I don’t like to be gagged. I often get comments about my looks. Whether one looks good or bad, one would surely get comments. However, I have mostly got positive comments. I don’t think anybody can look at me and say I am not pretty, or commend the way I dress.
What plans do you have for your career?
I want to advance it. I want to use my skill to help people, and engage in activities that would make the common person on the street hopeful about their goals.
What are your most memorable moments as a photographer?
My memorable moments are when I am able to visualise a certain picture the way I want it to look like, and I am able to actually bring it to life. Capturing a moment properly and editing it to tell the story one wants to tell is quite memorable for me.
Who are the people you look up to as a photographer?
I respect photographers such as TY Bello and Joshua Okoro. I also admire my friends who are good photographers, such as Jude Monami, who was actually the person who trained me in photography.
What are your other areas of interest?
I am a poet, and event manager.
