We’ve already told you what it’s like to date a doctor, lawyer, and artiste. This time, we’re focusing the lens on photographers.
What’s it like to be with someone who spends their days (and nights) chasing the perfect shot? We spoke to six Nigerians who’ve been there and done that, and here’s what they had to say.
Chinwe*
When I met my husband in the late early 2000s, photography wasn’t the glamorous profession it is today. He’d attend events with his bulky camera and film rolls, but people rarely saw him as “serious.” I was working as a teacher at the time, and our finances were tight. I’ll never forget the times he’d beg couples to let him photograph their weddings for ₦5,000 or how we couldn’t afford a decent Christmas because clients didn’t pay on time.
Despite the financial struggles, I was his biggest cheerleader. When he had doubts about continuing, I reminded him of his talent. Today, I smile when I see young photographers with drones and sleek cameras charging what we could only dream of back then. My husband eventually transitioned to another career, but I’ll always remember the hustle we shared and how those moments taught us resilience.
Aisha*
My husband and I fell in love while figuring out life after university. He was a budding wedding photographer, and while I adored his passion, my parents weren’t so impressed. They’d ask, “How will he take care of you with this camera work?” I tried to defend him, but deep down, I worried too.
Fast-forward to now, and he’s moved abroad, where he’s making a great living from photography. My parents have gone from doubters to bragging about him to their friends. But it’s not all rosy. What drives me mad is how “friendly” he gets with his female clients. He’ll spend hours hyping them up to make them “comfortable,” and I can’t lie—I get jealous sometimes. I trust him, but I’ve told him he needs to find a balance.
Tolu*
My girlfriend is an incredible photographer. She makes people look like celebrities on a budget. But if there’s one thing that gets her upset, it’s me asking her to take my photos for free. The first time I did it, I thought I was joking. She didn’t laugh.
She told me I was undermining her craft and that I’d treat her like any other professional if I respected her. I get it now, and I’ve started paying for her services when needed. She still surprises me with random free shoots, but I’ve learned that being with her means respecting her work.
Sade*
My boyfriend is an events photographer, and while I love his passion, dating him feels like being in a relationship with his clients, too. If he’s not shooting an event till 2 a.m., he’s at home editing pictures for clients who want their albums yesterday. One time, we were supposed to have a date, but he cancelled last minute because a client “needed their pictures immediately.” I ended up going out alone and sulking the entire time.
Then there’s the issue of payment—or lack of it. I hate hearing things like, “I’ll pay you next week,” or, “This gig will bring exposure.” Exposure doesn’t pay rent, and it definitely won’t buy food.
I know he’s trying his best, though. Recently, I started helping him with invoicing and contracts, so clients take him more seriously. He’s also learning to set boundaries with clients, which means fewer late-night edits. It’s still a work in progress, but I’m rooting for him.
Funmi*
My husband is a fashion photographer, and let me tell you—marrying someone who works in the creative industry is a different ballgame. Lagos Fashion Week? Forget seeing him for a whole week. He’s surrounded by models, designers, and endless photo shoots, and I have to remind myself that I signed up for this life.
That said, there are challenges that come with his line of work. The house constantly looks like a photography studio. I’ve tripped over lighting equipment on my way to the kitchen more times than I can count, and he always responds with, “Babe, creativity needs chaos.” One time, I walked into our bedroom to find a mannequin wearing one of my scarves. I nearly screamed.
But I’ll admit, I love seeing him in his element. Watching him direct models and bring their visions to life is amazing. And despite the chaos, he never forgets to hype me up—I’m his favourite subject in front of the camera, and every time he takes my picture, it reminds me why I fell in love with him.
Daniel*
Dating a photographer sounds cool until you realise you’re constantly competing with their camera. My girlfriend is always editing, planning shoots, or meeting clients, and it sometimes feels like I’m playing second fiddle to her passion. She tells me photography isn’t just a job for her—it’s her calling—but there are days I wonder if I’ll ever measure up.
One time, I convinced her to spend the weekend with me without her camera. It felt amazing having her undivided attention for the first time in months. But on Sunday evening, she started pacing around, saying she was behind on editing. I could see how stressed she was, and we ended up having a long conversation about how to balance her career and our relationship.
She’s trying now—she schedules breaks so we can spend quality time together, and I’ve learned to be more supportive. It’s not perfect, but seeing her happy when she’s behind the lens makes it worth the effort.
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