Read all about the Ghanaian photographer who also shot the main image above!
Edward Kusi known as Opeimu is a photographer in Ghana who is known for his breathtaking pictures. His pictures have gone viral all over the continent and Edward has been fortunate enough to make pictures of some of the biggest names in Ghana.
He was born in Kumasi, Pankrono Estate to be specific. He decided to explore the field of photography in 2017. At that time, he was using a Samsung Note 3 that his sister bought for home. He started taking quite a number of pictures and found an easy and pleasant way to edit his pictures. He did this for quite some time and to his surprise his friends started recommending him to people and that was when he decided to turn his hobby into a career. Due to this, he purchased his first professional camera using his savings. He became a professional photographer in Ghana and mostly used his friends as model. He became drawn to street photography and taking pictures of wild animals. He started watching YouTube videos and reading guides, which taught the basics of photography, which helped him, better his photography skills. He gained exposure through his photography page and the positive comments people were giving him. Shortly after, he secured his first paid gig that was to take pictures of food and décor at an event.
One of his best moments was when he was booked to create a documentary about the production of shea butter in Tamale, Ghana that was published by Allure Magazine and Jihan Forbes wrote the story behind it. His most embarrassing moment is when he had a photoshoot and when he got to the location, he did not have his memory card in the camera. The model was ready and had turn her makeup; he had to cancel the shoot.
Being a photographer is Ghana has become recognized in Ghana. At first, it was not considered a reputable job. Now, people are appreciating the work that photographers do. It has created a great platform for young people to penetrate the market and make a living out of it.
The great thing about photography, you are your own boss and because social media has taken over these days, photography has a great market. Edward believes that he does not have a favourite location to shoot. For him every location is a chance for him to bring out the best out of it. One of his favourite shoots was one he did under a bridge in Accra, Ghana.
His advice for upcoming photographer is to get into the habit of shooting on a daily basis. “The more you shoot the more you get to know the camera you are using,” says Opeimu. He also encourages photographers to have good relationships between the people that they shoot. Lastly, to be always be professional and humble.
Did you know?
• He wants to visit South Africa, India and Indonesia
• When he is not taking pictures he is either reading a book or listening to a sermon
• He loves South Africa mainly because of the culture, locations and fashion sense
• He can take up to 1000 pictures a day and out of the 1000 he only selects 5
• He likes to swim
