Ali Mohsen: Egyptian photographer bringing street photography into fashion and commercial work

Ali Mohsen is an Egyptian freelance photographer and video content creator whose work spans street, fashion, and event photography. His interest in photography began in 2018, while he was studying Business Administration, and eventually developed into a professional career.

Alongside his street photography, Mohsen works on commercial productions as a photographer, content producer, and video editor. He is the co-founder of Media Live, a creative team, and the creator of Fashion Lens, a project focused on fashion photography. He is also a member of the Xiaomi Creator team.

His personal interests include travelling, documenting everyday life, and photographing historical architecture. He is particularly drawn to finding unusual perspectives in familiar places.

How did you get started in photography?

My photography journey began during a street photowalk in 2018. I was studying Business Administration at the time, but photographing everyday moments on the street made me realise how much I wanted to pursue photography.

That experience gave me the confidence to build a freelance career. What began as an interest in street photography eventually led me to work in fashion, events, and video production.

How would you describe yourself?

I am deeply passionate about street photography and constantly look for ways to improve my skills and capture moments that express who I am.

I also love architectural photography, especially old and historical buildings. Whenever I encounter them, I enjoy finding different angles that reveal details people might ordinarily overlook.

Travelling, discovering new places, and trying new experiences are important sources of inspiration for me.

One thing about me is that I never allow equipment to limit what I create. I can work with almost anything, including an old mobile phone, because I believe the photographer's eye matters most.

What are the main themes that inspire your photography?

I am inspired by everyday human experiences, particularly the unposed moments and personal stories I encounter through street and documentary photography.

I enjoy observing how people live, interact, and express themselves. Travelling also introduces me to different cultures and experiences that influence the subjects I photograph.

Through my images, I try to preserve fleeting moments and genuine emotions in ways that allow viewers to recognise something familiar in another person's experience.

What moment in your career are you most proud of?

I have participated in several art exhibitions and photography competitions, and each has taught me something. My proudest moment was winning an international photography competition where I was the sole recipient of the grand prize.

Receiving that recognition was particularly meaningful because I had chosen to pursue photography professionally despite studying Business Administration. It gave me confidence in my decision and encouraged me to continue developing my own style.

What is the biggest challenge you've faced as a photographer?

One of my biggest challenges was moving from studying Business Administration into freelance photography, particularly when I did not have access to expensive equipment.

I had to learn how to make the most of what was available to me. I focused on improving my composition, understanding light, and developing my ability to recognise interesting moments.

That experience taught me to be resourceful and patient with my progress. It also gave me the confidence to take on more ambitious projects and eventually co-found Media Live.

What type of photography do you specialise in?

I specialise primarily in street photography, although I also work in fashion, wedding, and event photography.

Street photography appeals to me because of its spontaneity. I enjoy photographing people and situations as they unfold, without knowing exactly what will happen next.

Over time, my practice has expanded into video production and commercial photography. Through projects such as Fashion Lens and Media Live, I have developed ways of applying my photographic interests to different types of assignments.

What is your primary commercial niche?

My commercial work focuses on video content creation, event coverage, and fashion photography.

Through Fashion Lens, I work on fashion and commercial shoots for brands. As a co-founder of Media Live, I also produce promotional videos, social media reels, and event coverage for clients and agencies.

These projects allow me to work across photography and video while developing different approaches to commercial production.

How's the photography and art scene in Egypt?

Photography and art in Egypt have developed considerably in recent years. The country has a rich artistic and cultural history, and I have noticed growing interest in digital content, mobile filmmaking, and short-form video production.

More independent photographers and creative teams are documenting everyday life and Egyptian culture through street photography and other forms of visual expression.

Mobile photography has also made it easier for emerging photographers to develop their skills and share their work with audiences outside Egypt.

I think these developments are creating more opportunities for photographers to experiment, collaborate, and reach new audiences.

What do you think of the 54Ruum platform?

I see 54Ruum as a valuable platform for African photographers to share their work and connect with other creatives.

I appreciate its focus on African perspectives and the opportunities it creates for artists to gain visibility and develop connections beyond their immediate communities.