Idowu Araoluwa, Editor, LASU Conscience
In a world where every image tells a story, Muhammed Olakunle Disu, a 400-level student of the unit of Physical and Health Education, stands out for his ability to turn ordinary moments into timeless frames.
What began as a casual attempt to learn a skill after high school has evolved into a deep passion for visual storytelling. His journey isn’t just about photography, it’s about finding purpose, embracing growth, and daring to keep going even when the odds blur the focus. Dive in. This is a story worth seeing through his lens.
Can you briefly introduce yourself?
“My name is Muhammed Olakunle Disu, I’m a 400L Physical and Health Education student. I’m a visual artist.”
What motivated you to go into photography?
“I started photography after high school because I just wanted to learn a skill. It’s not something I’ve always liked, but I thought to do it at the time because of the influence of a brother who was a photographer. Over time, I developed a passion for it.”
Can you describe your photography style?
“Well, I’m still exploring different aspects of photography but majorly, I’m into Documentary, fine art and lifestyle photography. I do more of documentary photography because I think it captures the everyday life and reality. I also do fine art photography for my love of Arts.”
Do you face any challenges balancing your art with your academics?
”Yes, I do. One of the major challenges I face is planning my schedule whenever I have a job, yet have to attend classes. Many times, I have to choose the most important and by doing this, I end up forfeiting some gigs. Most times, I struggle with balancing the both.”
Have you ever gotten to any point where you considered quitting photography?
”To be honest, photography is not an inbuilt thing for me, but surprisingly, I’ve never gotten so fed up as to consider quitting. I’ve grown to love it so much. I always tell myself that I just want to continue ‘shooting‘ till I can’t anymore.”
Do you have photographers that inspire your work?
Absolutely! There are many photographers that I look up to. Wale Adebisi, a conceptual photographer, is one. Then, Edos artistry, whose art motivated me to change my business name. I used to be “Disu Imagery,” but I followed up with this guy and he inspired me to change my name because that way, it covers many aspects of photography.
I also look up to Kelechi Amadiobi, Amazing Clef, Snap code and the likes. Those are the top people in the industry for me.”
Apart from photography, what else do you enjoy doing?
”Before photography, I loved music and I still do. In fact, I used to rap. During the lockdown, I released some tracks. But over time, I realized that I’m not a good lyrist and rapping is not my thing. I love listening to music, having conversations about music, and stuff. I recently released a documentary titled “Sound and Sight“. I blended photography and music. It covered how music inspires my arts.”
Who is your favorite music artiste?
”I really don’t have a favorite because I listen to different types of music, like Afro beat, Rap, and R&B alternative. I have listened to quite a number of artistes, so I can’t choose a favorite.”
If you were to describe yourself in two words, how would you?
”I’d say “I’m Relentless.” I have this quote in mind that ‘If you’re not dead, you try again.’ As long as you’re alive, just keep going. The second word that best describes me is “Visionary.”
Do you see yourself venturing into anything related to your course of study, Physical Health Education?
“I don’t know what the future holds. To be honest, before I got into University, I was very confused about what to study. Getting to study Physical Health Education is not the best decision I think I should have made. I even think I made the wrong decision in secondary school by going for the science class. I feel I should have done Arts.
Yet, I know I can still correct it and that’s what I’m doing. I’ve realized that I really like Arts and it’s what I want to do for myself. However, if at all I’d be getting involved in anything related to Health, I’d do it in a way that relates with documentary. I’d connect it together in some way.
What’s your advice to upcoming student photographers who are struggling to be seen?
“My advice to you is, start from where you are. You don’t need to have the best camera and equipment. There was a time I didn’t have a camera, and currently, I don’t even have the best, but I make do with what I have. The device with you is the best, and what matters is how well you can utilize what you have. I’d also say, Don’t stop creating! Don’t stop shooting! Continue shooting!
Although photography wasn’t a love at first sight for Muhammed, he has grown in passion for his art and his journey reflects creativity, resilience, and a relentless drive to keep “shooting” no matter what.
Abati Favour, Editor, LASU Conscience
Aramide Okunboh, Correspondent, LASU Conscience
