This week on Elevate Your Style’s Community Spotlight, we sit down with photographer Femi Sami, whose journey from a season of uncertainty to owning his own studio is nothing short of inspiring.
His Redirection From Rejection
For Femi, photography began during a low point in his life. After losing his first job at a bank branch, he suddenly found himself with nothing to do for a year. Instead of being defined by the setback, he decided to explore a new skill. Torn between fashion design and photography, his mother nudged him towards the latter. Her reasoning? Photography would take him out into the world, introducing him to people and connections. She was right.
What started as a pastime became a passion, then a profession, and today, Femi runs his own studio where he captures milestones, emotions, and stories for people from all walks of life. Through photography, He’s had the privilege of meeting incredible people like David Wej, Michael Okunloro, and even the Mayor of Barking and Dagenham just to mention a few.
The Memory Weaver’s Style
Femi describes his photography as storytelling through portraits. His approach isn’t about staged poses but about creating space where people feel relaxed enough to be themselves. The laughter, the fleeting glance, the unguarded emotion are the details he treasures most.
“Photography for me is not just about taking a nice picture, it’s about weaving memories that anyone can feel deeply connected to.”
It’s this ability to blend calmness, humour, and authenticity that makes his work stand out.
A Creative Community with Elevate Your Style
When asked about working with Elevate Your Style, Femi tells us. “It’s been more than just collaboration; it’s been a community.”
From working alongside inspiring founder Michael Okunloro to connecting with other creatives, Elevate Your Style has given him both growth and opportunities.
“We’ve only scratched the surface, the bigger things are still ahead.”
Leadership Beyond the Camera
Recently, Femi was chosen as Head of Media for the Mayor’s Community Committee in Barking and Dagenham. For him, it’s about service, influence, and amplifying the voices of his community.
“I strongly believe relationships are currencies,” he shares.
Through his role, he aims to foster collaboration, mentor young creatives, and highlight the positive stories shaping Barking and Dagenham.
Words for Aspiring Photographers
For young creatives who want to turn their passion into a business, Femi offers timeless advice:
“First, stay true to yourself. Authenticity is what will set you apart in a crowded industry. Protect your integrity at all costs. Your name and reputation are worth more than any single gig. Start with what you have, even if it feels small, and grow gradually. Don’t wait for the perfect camera or the fanciest studio; consistency and creativity matter more than equipment in the beginning.
Second, focus on building relationships, not just making money. Every client, collaboration, and connection is part of your journey. When people trust you, the opportunities and financial rewards will follow.
Third, don’t just see yourself as a photographer, see yourself as a business owner. That mindset shift will help you make healthy decisions about pricing, branding, client management, and long-term sustainability.
Finally, invest in your growth. Master your craft, but equally learn the business side; marketing, customer service, finance, and personal branding. Be willing to adapt, keep learning, and never lose the passion that got you started. The combination of skill, vision, and business sense is what will turn your passion into a lasting and successful career.”
At Elevate Your Style, we believe in spotlighting voices like Femi’s that remind us creativity is more than talent. It’s resilience, connection, and vision.
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And here’s a little teaser: something huge is coming next week. Trust us, you don’t want to miss it.
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