When beginning your career as a professional photographer, investing in the right tools to suit your style involves making smart kitbag choices. Choosing versatile lenses that will suit your changing needs as you evolve and explore different avenues, for example, is key – but where's best to start?
Canon Ambassador Emmanuel Oyeleke has been on his own evolutionary journey with equipment. Born and based in Nigeria, the acclaimed fashion and portrait photographer didn't have the most traditional start in the field: "I studied computer science, then stumbled on photography after university through playing Scrabble, which I used to do professionally," he explains. "I travelled so much that I thought I should take pictures of my trips."
After attending a two-week photography workshop in 2011, Emmanuel knew he had found his calling, so he quit his job as a computer programmer and began developing a career in photography. His fine art style portraits, fashion and lifestyle images have helped build a striking portfolio and a client list that includes Nigeria's leading magazines, as well as international brands. But how did he develop a kitbag that has grown with him in his profession?
Here, Emmanuel shares his gear pathway and his advice for students who may be unsure where to begin.