Alexandre Gandaho, Beninese fashion photographer based in Dakar, Senegal

Alexandre GANDAHO, born in 2000, is a Beninese photographer based between Benin and Senegal. A passionate self-taught artist, he discovered his calling for photography during his high school years. Through his work, he celebrates the beauty and richness of African culture through carefully staged photographic narratives.

His artistic universe skillfully blends storytelling, portrait, and fashion, offering a contemporary and engaged vision of his identity. Alexandre aspires to create universal works capable of inspiring his peers and future generations.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

I would describe myself as patient, passionate, and ambitious.

How did you first get into photography?

I discovered this passion during my high school years; I had no particular inspiration or mentors. All I knew was that I enjoyed photographing my classmates. At that time, I was also experimenting with video, creating free music videos for friends who were just starting out in rap, which helped me lay a foundation.

What type(s) of photography do you specialise in, and why did you choose this niche?

I have a special interest in portrait and fashion photography, which are at the core of my work. That said, I also explore other photography styles whenever a subject inspires me. I also wear the hat of a video director basically, I’m a multidisciplinary artist. For me, every approach can enrich my practice.

Regarding the evolution of my style, I am constantly experimenting. I refine my craft day by day, relying more and more on an instinctive approach.

Mostly working with African creators, I aspire to promote local know-how. I am convinced that with much more resources, we could achieve wonders, considering the extraordinary things African brands, creatives, and entrepreneurs already do with limited means. “We just lack exposure.”

Can you share the underlying themes or ideas that drive your photography?

Through my work, I aspire to promote African cultural identity and showcase the true capabilities of African creators through editorial photo series and authentic portraits. Being a very reserved person, “My camera is a passport to connect with others.” Today, thanks to photography, I meet many people from diverse cultures with whom I exchange and build connections. Photography is about human relationships.

What’s the one achievement or moment in your photography career that you’re most proud of?

I am particularly grateful for every small step I take. Have you ever felt that pride an artist feels when people are moved by their work? It’s indescribable.

On January 10, 2024, during the Vodun festival celebration in my country, Benin, I was deeply touched to see that a portrait I took of a young devotee was so widely shared and appreciated.

I did not expect at all the impact this portrait would have, making people proud of their culture and reminding them of their roots. It made me realize how a photograph can reveal the beauty, importance, and heritage of an entire culture. “We leave behind traces that will mark future generations.”

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a photographer, and how did you overcome it?

My greatest challenge as an artist is to maintain my passion and vision despite all the challenges and difficulties it may involve, while giving a clear long-term direction to my career. To overcome this, I try to move forward step by step, taking time to reflect and be grateful for what I have already accomplished.

I have also realized that perfection doesn’t exist, nor does the perfect image. We must learn from experiences and improve along the way. It’s by learning from failures and experimenting that we grow.

If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be and why?

For now, I stay focused on building my career, working to refine my practice into something impactful and timeless. At the same time, I remain open to any kind of collaboration, as long as it suits me. Time will tell.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

Very few photographers of my generation have heard of contemporary African artists like Malik Sidibé or Seydou Keïta, who impacted their eras through works that have stood the test of time. I think this is an excellent initiative that will help shine a greater spotlight on creatives, who are often relegated to the back burner. This community will highlight artists’ stories that will surely inspire others in the future.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting their photography journey, what would it be?

To someone just starting out, I would give one simple but essential piece of advice: start with the resources you have and never stop learning and experimenting to develop a unique style that is truly yours. And finally, start out of passion rather than following trends.