With the rise in the number of people signing up in various social media platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube, it goes without an iota of doubt that professional photography can be a reliable source of income.
Photography is a crucial part for various media houses and blogs because it complements the art of story telling. In the run up to the August 2022 general elections, politicians are keen at ensuring that they get the best shots to post on their social media.
Recently, a photo featuring Azimio Coalition presidential candidate and running mate managed to take the internet with a storm. The perfectly captured picture showed Raila Odinga and Martha Karua exquisitely dressed with all smiles as they took a selfie.
According to activist Boniface Mwangi, the photo was shot by professional photographer Allan Gichigi whose 15 years is nothing short of commendable as this article will reveal.
Allan Gichigi Background and Education
The photographer was born and raised in the Coastal region of Kenya. His father was a photographer with Getty images.
Gichigi studied communication at Daystar University then proceeded abroad to further his studies. He pursued a Masters in Film Production at Canterbury Christ Church University (UK) for one year, and graduated in 2009.
Career and Awards
According to his official website, Gichigi has specialized in documentary production and people-centred narrative like portraiture. He also does events photography such as weddings. Because he has set and raised the bar high, he has won gigs with various corporates such as Safaricom and oil marketer Vivo Energy popularly known as Shell.
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The independent photographer is known to relive moments through the power of the lens. And because photography is dull without stirring of people’s emotions, various photos taken by Gichigi have driven perfect narratives on the livelihood of disadvantaged people. For example, one of his photos appearing on his website depicts a school-going child quenching his thirst from a puddle of dirty water in one of Nairobi’s slums.
Gichigi’s decorated career saw him work as a consultant photographer for UNICEF between 2013 and 2014. He won the prestigious Sony World Photography Award in the split second category through one of his photo that captured a fisherman casting his net in Lake Turkana.
Contacts
Website: Allangichigi.com
