Interview: Street Photography in Nairobi

I enjoy exploring urban landscapes, as well as, natural settings to compose unique shots and tell compelling stories through my photography.

NAIROBI, Kenya, June 21, 2024/-- Yesterday, the 20th of June, 2024, Kenyan youth united for a common course that transcends petty politics and ethnic identity. The monumental march on parliament to protest the contentious Finance Bill 2024, displayed the goodwill that the current generation has for the future of Kenya. Zoomers you have political rizz do not lose it.

In today's edition of Kikao, we have a young passionate journalist who was traversed the country in search of answers while on duty and self-discovery. Cyprian, gives us his perspective of Nairobi through the newly acquired lens of a photojournalist.

Let Kikao begin...

[Question 1] Welcome to Kikao, Cyprian. Who’s Cyprian?

Cyprian is a recent graduate from Maasai Mara university with a bachelors degree in Journalism and Mass communication. He has passion in media, He has also worked in different NGOs, including NASCOP. He's the last born in a family of 8. He's also an author.

[Question 2] What is it like shooting in the streets of Nairobi?

Shooting in Nairobi streets is interesting, I do say photography is an art and a science. You become creative in the sense that you are capturing nature and at the same time delivering to your client specification. I do enjoy it now that its within my field of study. You find someone in sad mood, then you convince him or her to take a picture in the street then he or she leaves happy and this melts my heart. I enjoy putting a smile in the face of people, as I earn a living too.

[Question 3] Nairobi is a beautiful city. Is it? Beyond yourself, what does it have to offer others? Can it be improved?

Yes, Nairobi is a beautiful city. To my opinion the city should be improved to look beautiful in all seasons. I mean rainy and dry seasons, so that no one is in any worry when its about to rain due to fear of blocked roads.

[Question 4] One Frame. Is there that captured moment that you could talk about in length?

There is. I once met a client. She was sad and crying. I approached her, she shared a frustrating situation she had been in that I don't wish to disclose. Then after interacting with her, she asked me to take a picture to remember that day. Eventually she left happy and smiling.

[Question 5] Where is your ideal photographic stroll?

My ideal photography stroll would be in a picturesque location with good lighting, interesting architecture, and diverse subjects to capture. I enjoy exploring urban landscapes, as well as, natural settings to compose unique shots and tell compelling stories through my photography.

[Question 6] Who or what inspires you?

Who inspires me is Sila Kiplagat. A photojournalist in Nation Media Group. Then the other thing is taking a photo that despite showing the image or subject it tells a story that inspires someone or that provokes positive reactions.

[Question 7] Is there a Cyprian without the camera?

Yes. As said earlier, I’m a professional journalist, a news anchor, reporter, radio presenter, and sports editor. I am a "father" to my sisters, an author, and a football player. I also support AFC leopard, and Chelsea.

The written interview was compiled by Phineahs Munene – Co-founder of WazoMoja for Cyprian Walekhwa – of Classiq Studios

Distributed by WazoMoja on behalf of Classiq Studios

SOURCE

Classiq Studios