In this exclusive cover story, Style Afrique presents an in-depth interview with Kwame Koda, a trailblazing photographer and director whose work illuminates the world of visual arts.
Kwame Koda, a name synonymous with exceptional visual storytelling, has been a transformative force in the world of photography and creative direction. Originating from Kumasi in the Ashanti Region and now a resident in Accra, Koda’s journey from childhood sketching to commanding the international stage is nothing short of inspirational.
“My name is Kwame Koda,” he begins, introducing himself with a warmth that mirrors his passion for his craft. “I am a professional photographer and director specializing in creating visual content for both local and international brands.” From his humble beginnings in Kumasi, Koda’s dedication and innovative spirit have catapulted him into the limelight, where he now shapes the visual identity of renowned brands and celebrities.
Reflecting on the sparks of his early interest in visual arts, Koda recalls, “I remember my excitement when I had to use a crayon to colour a drawing of a tomato. I loved drawing all the time; my exercise books in primary school were always filled with drawings.” His formative years were marked by a love for art that went beyond mere pastime, fueled by inspirations like the ‘Dennis & Gnasher’ book.
A significant turning point in Koda’s creative journey was the mentorship he received from Ernest, an older neighbor in Kumasi. “Ernest encouraged my passion for the arts the most,” Koda shares. “Everyone else wasn’t too interested, but he taught me how to draw and fueled my enthusiasm.”
Koda’s early experiences were not without their challenges. He fondly recalls his first foray into professional photography: “Always come along with extra light!” A rainy day during his debut gig taught him the importance of preparedness. Yet, these early hurdles only strengthened his resolve. “The first photo I ever took was during a photoshoot for a friend’s Instagram page,” he says, reminiscing about the modest beginnings that led to significant milestones.
Among these milestones are collaborations with global names such as Samsung, Stonebwoy, and Lance Gross. Koda’s work in directing music videos for stars like Kidi and Fameye further underscores his versatility and influence in the industry. He also shares candidly, “I think the biggest misconception is that we don’t make enough to sustain a full-time career. There are many ways to generate leads and create opportunities.”
Networking and relationship-building have been crucial to Koda’s success. “I have about 15 music videos to my name, all through the power of networking,” he reveals. His ability to leverage connections was also pivotal in overcoming setbacks, including a significant financial loss during his first year of directing. “I had to take out loans to pay off my debt,” Koda admits, yet his resilience allowed him to bounce back swiftly and achieve new heights.
Koda’s creative philosophy is reflected in his establishment of Kodafix Studios, which embodies his commitment to precision, creativity, and innovation. “Kodafix is a combination of Koda + Graphics + Fix,” he explains. “I wanted a platform that uses creative art to solve problems in society.”
The Suntopia Art Exhibition series, another feather in Koda’s cap, explores the metaphor of reaching for the sun to inspire limitless potential. “The Suntopia story begins at the beach, where the sun touches the surface of the earth beyond the horizon,” Koda describes. His exhibitions have not only showcased his personal experiences but also inspired the local art community to create their own opportunities.
Looking to the future, Koda is excited about upcoming projects and exhibitions, though he remains tight-lipped about details. His advice to aspiring photographers is clear and motivational: “Have a plan, a big plan, stay focused, and have fun!”
In closing, Koda emphasizes the role of visual art in shaping cultural and social narratives. “Visual communication has played a significant role in influencing society and our culture in many different ways,” he asserts. As he continues to push boundaries and innovate, Kwame Koda remains a beacon of creativity and inspiration in the world of visual arts.
Full interview out on October 4!
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