Fasanmi Afolabi: Nigerian commercial photographer blending culinary expertise with visual storytelling

Fasanmi Afolabi, professionally known as Fola Stag, is a Nigerian photographer, creative director, and trained chef whose work focuses on food, lifestyle, and commercial photography.

He began his photography career in 2014, initially working in portrait and event photography before developing an interest in food imagery. His culinary background eventually became an important part of his photographic practice, allowing him to combine food preparation, styling, and photography.

With over a decade of experience, Fola has worked on commercial productions, including a campaign for Johnnie Walker. His work also extends to creative direction and visual branding, with an interest in how photography can shape the presentation of people, products, and cultural experiences.

How did you get started in photography?

I started photography in 2014, teaching myself through YouTube videos and constant practice. At the time, I focused mainly on portrait and event photography.

I have always loved cooking and the process involved, so I would photograph meals with my phone and share the images on Twitter.

In 2019, I decided to photograph a meal I had prepared using my professional camera. The response online was encouraging, and that experience made me realise I could combine my interest in food with photography.

I eventually attended culinary school and began developing my skills as a food photographer.

How would you describe yourself?

I am a photographer, creative director, and trained intercontinental chef. I enjoy experimenting with ideas and finding different ways to communicate through images and experiences.

Beyond photography and cooking, I have interests in acting and content creation. I enjoy exploring different creative processes and learning how they can influence one another.

Whether I am developing a campaign, styling a food scene, or directing a shoot, I pay attention to the details that make an image memorable.

What are the main themes that inspire your photography?

My photography is inspired by food, culture, lifestyle, and everyday experiences. I am drawn to the stories behind things we often overlook, such as the meals we share, the traditions we preserve, and the people we encounter.

Through my images, I try to celebrate food and cultural heritage while presenting familiar subjects in ways that people can relate to.

I want my photographs to evoke emotions, preserve memories, and encourage people to appreciate the experiences that connect us.

What moment in your career are you most proud of?

Completing a global campaign project for Johnnie Walker is one of them. It was a challenging assignment that pushed my team and me creatively and professionally. We had to think carefully about the details involved in bringing the visual concept to life.

What made the experience rewarding was contributing to a campaign for a globally recognised brand and seeing my work operate at that level. It reminded me how far I had come and encouraged me to take on more ambitious projects.

Another experience I am proud of was working on the visual positioning of Farooq Oreagba, popularly known as 'Mr. Steeze', as a brand and model.

I was involved in shaping how he was presented visually, and it was rewarding to see that work contribute to opportunities for him. Watching brands recognise his appeal and feature him in commercials and advertising campaigns reinforced my belief that photography can influence how people are perceived and create professional opportunities.

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

Some of my biggest challenges came during the early stages of my career. I struggled with funding, finding my niche, identifying the right clients, and understanding how to position and sell my work. I had to learn how to build a sustainable career while continuing to improve creatively.

I spent time practising, collaborating with other creatives, taking on pro bono projects to develop my portfolio, and using social media to showcase my work.

Those experiences taught me that talent alone is not enough. Consistency, resourcefulness, visibility, and a willingness to keep learning are equally important.

I also learnt that you do not always have to wait until you have everything you need before creating opportunities for yourself.

What type of photography do you specialise in?

Commercial food, lifestyle, and product photography.

Food photography is important to me because it brings together my culinary knowledge and interest in visual art. Understanding food preparation helps me think about how ingredients, colours, textures, and presentation can contribute to an image.

Over the years, I have become more intentional about lighting, composition, styling, and the overall concept behind each photograph. My style continues to evolve through practice, experimentation, and learning from photographers, filmmakers, and other creatives.

What is your unique technical or visual approach?

My approach is rooted in attention to lighting, detail, and composition. I think carefully about how light interacts with a subject, how colours complement one another, and how different elements work together within the frame.

When photographing food or products, I consider the mood I want to create and the qualities I want to emphasise. For me, small details can make a significant difference in how an image communicates its message.

How's the photography and art scene in your country?

Nigerian photography has gained greater international visibility in recent years, with more photographers producing work that reflects local experiences and reaches audiences beyond the country.

However, the industry is becoming increasingly competitive, with photographers at different skill levels seeking opportunities. I have also noticed that many photographers are still developing their identities and areas of specialisation.

I believe the next stage of growth will depend on greater specialisation, stronger business structures, more collaboration, and increased access to international opportunities.

For me, these developments create opportunities to continue growing in commercial food, lifestyle, and product photography while sharing Nigerian creativity with a wider audience.