Photography, the art and science of creating images by recording light, has evolved from a specialized practice into one of the world’s most accessible forms of communication and storytelling. Derived from Greek words meaning “drawing with light,” photography allows people to preserve memories, document events, express creativity, and communicate ideas through visual images shared across different platforms and audiences worldwide.
The history of photography dates back to the 1820s when French inventor Nicéphore Niépce produced the first permanent photograph using a camera obscura and a bitumen-coated plate. Over the years, the technology developed from daguerreotypes and collotypes in the 1830s and 1840s to consumer-friendly Kodak roll film in the 1880s. The introduction of digital cameras in the 1990s completely transformed the industry by making photography cheaper, easier, and faster for professionals and ordinary users alike.
As smartphones became common during the first decade of the 21st century, photography turned into an everyday activity for millions of people around the globe. Social media platforms further accelerated this trend, creating demand for visual storytelling, online marketing, digital advertising, entertainment content, and professional photography services.
In Kenya, photography has rapidly developed into a vibrant and profitable industry driven by digital media, tourism, corporate branding, entertainment, fashion, and content creation. Young creatives in cities such as Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu are increasingly embracing photography as both an artistic expression and a reliable source of income.
According to data from the Kenya Bureau of Statistics, the creative economy contributes more than five per cent of Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product, with photography playing an important role through visual marketing, event coverage, documentary production, advertising, and fashion content. Although there is no official updated figure showing the exact number of people employed in photography nationwide, the industry continues supporting hundreds of livelihoods, especially among young people seeking self-employment opportunities.
In Kisumu County, street photography has become more than simply capturing moments on camera. For many youths, it is now a dependable source of daily income and survival in a challenging economic environment. Among those making a living through photography is Luis Kibero, whose journey reflects determination, resilience, and commitment to building a better future.
Luis says his passion for photography started while he was still in high school. He first studied at Kisumu Jacaranda before later joining Kisumu Day and eventually pursuing Electrical Installation studies at Kisumu Rotary club. Despite taking technical courses, his interest in photography continued growing steadily because he enjoyed interacting with people and capturing memorable moments.
His love for photography deepened after meeting a friend involved in comedy and content creation. Initially, Luis helped his friend record videos using a mobile phone. With time, the process became more interesting, motivating the pair to purchase their first camera and start producing video content together.
“You can follow our YouTube channel @Mc Habu,” he says proudly.
Luis recalls that their first camera cost about Sh15,000, money he raised through construction jobs and other casual work around Kisumu. He considers the purchase the turning point that launched his professional photography career and opened opportunities he had never imagined before.
For nearly two years, Luis has worked in street photography around Kisumu city. His days begin at 7:00 a.m. and often end at 9:00 p.m. as he spends long hours taking pictures for clients in busy streets, open spaces, and social gatherings across the city.
According to him, even on a slow day he can take an average of 70 photographs. Initially, one photograph cost Sh100, but because of the difficult economic environment, they sometimes lower the price to Sh50 depending on the client’s ability to pay and prevailing business conditions.
“On a normal day I make around Sh1,500,” he explains.
Beyond income generation, Luis says photography has allowed him to meet and interact with different people who inspire and mentor him in life. One of his most memorable experiences involved photographing a government officer who later referred him to additional clients, helping him expand his customer network and improve his earnings.
However, the work also comes with challenges. Luis explains that convincing customers about the value of professional photography remains difficult, especially when many people rely on smartphone cameras for pictures and often underestimate the skills involved in quality photography.
Despite these obstacles, he remains focused on growing his skills and expanding into videography, which he says interests him even more than photography. He encourages young people to believe in themselves, work hard, remain disciplined, and pursue their talents with determination despite economic hardships.
Luis also credits workshops organized by the Kisumu County Government for sharpening his photography skills and exposing him to experienced professionals who mentored and inspired him. Through these training opportunities, he has continued improving his craft while building a name for himself within Kisumu’s growing creative industry.
Bornface Odhiambo is another young person who has ventured into street photography as a source of income. He studied Information Technology at Moi University, where his passion for photography first developed while he searched for ways to support himself financially during his studies.
“I started photography to support myself because I come from a humble background that struggled to meet daily needs,” he explains.
After completing his studies, Bornface made the bold decision to move to Kisumu and pursue photography full-time despite his family initially expecting him to follow a different professional path. When his parents eventually saw his dedication and commitment, they accepted his choice and offered their support.
Bornface says establishing himself in the business was not easy. It took nearly a year of hard work, patience, and sacrifice before he became stable. He spent considerable time and resources securing permits, finding working space, and raising approximately Sh10,000 in startup capital to establish the business successfully.
He notes that harsh weather conditions and insecurity during political rallies in the city remain among the biggest challenges affecting street photographers. During rainy periods or tense political moments, customer numbers reduce significantly, making it difficult to maintain consistent daily earnings.
On ordinary days, Bornface earns about Sh1,500, while slower days may bring in only Sh500. However, during busy weekends, holidays, and special events, he can earn as much as Sh10,000 depending on the number of clients and photography assignments available.
Apart from street photography, he also operates a small studio where clients can choose between raw and edited photographs depending on their preferences and budgets. He currently runs the business independently while continuing to improve his photography, editing, and customer service skills.
For Bornface, photography is about more than earning money. His passion for the profession and desire for self-improvement continue motivating him to push forward. He hopes to become a recognized professional photographer and establish a larger business within Kenya’s entertainment and creative sector.
By Mabel Keya- Shikuku and Dickens Joseph
