We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Michael Nzungize a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Michael, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about how you got your first non-friend, non-family client. Paint the picture for us so we can feel the same excitement you felt on that day.
I vividly remember the exhilarating moment when I landed my very first photography client. It was a milestone in my journey, and looking back, I can attribute this achievement to one key factor: my unwavering dedication to consistently sharing my work on Instagram, despite my own doubts about its perceived imperfections.
As a budding photographer, I knew that building an online presence was essential in today’s digital age. Instagram became my creative sanctuary, where I could express myself and showcase my passion for photography. But the fear of not being good enough often held me back from sharing my work with the world.
However, I made a conscious decision to overcome those self-imposed limitations. I realized that waiting for perfection would only hinder my progress. Instead, I chose to embrace vulnerability and share my photographs regularly on Instagram, regardless of how flawless or imperfect they seemed in my eyes.
I started posting consistently, weaving together a visual narrative that reflected my unique style and perspective. Each image I shared was a piece of my heart, a testament to my growth as an artist. I poured my emotions, my creativity, and my unwavering passion into every photograph, despite any lingering doubts or fears.
As I continued to share my work on Instagram, something incredible began to happen. Gradually, I started attracting a community of art enthusiasts, fellow photographers, and potential clients. They connected with the authenticity and genuine emotions conveyed through my images. They saw beyond the perceived imperfections and recognized the essence of my artistic voice.
One day, as I scrolled through the comments on my Instagram posts, I noticed a message from a potential client. They expressed their admiration for my work and shared their vision for an upcoming project. They believed that I possessed the talent and creativity to bring their vision to life. It was a breakthrough moment.
I was elated, but also humbled. This client had found me through the consistent presence I had built on Instagram, showcasing my work and sharing my journey. It was a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of vulnerability in the creative process.
With excitement and a hint of nervousness, I embraced the opportunity and began working closely with my first client. Together, we brought their vision to fruition, capturing moments of beauty and weaving them into a visual story that would be cherished for years to come.
That first client marked a turning point in my photography career. It was a validation of my passion and a reminder that the pursuit of perfection is an endless journey. By consistently sharing my work on Instagram, I had not only attracted my first client but also built a foundation for future success.
From that moment forward, I continued to share my work on Instagram, learning and growing with each photograph. I realized that it was the act of sharing, of allowing others to witness my creative evolution, that brought me closer to my true potential as a photographer.
Today, as I reflect on my journey, I am grateful for the decision to consistently share my work on Instagram. It has been the catalyst for personal and professional growth, opening doors to new opportunities and allowing me to connect with a wider audience who appreciates the beauty found within imperfections.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Back in 2016-2017, when I was just 15-16 years old, I embarked on a journey that would shape my life forever – photography. It began as an escape, a way for me to immerse myself in the beauty of the world and express my creativity. Little did I know that this passion would evolve into something that didn’t feel like work at all.
Photography became my sanctuary, a realm where time seemed to stand still, and I could lose myself in the art of capturing moments. It wasn’t just a hobby; it was a source of joy, fulfillment, and a way for me to escape the pressures of everyday life. It became a medium through which I could share my unique perspective with the world.
As my love for photography grew, I discovered my true passion – concert photography. It was during a Burna Boy concert in September 2019 that I had the opportunity to shoot my first concert. The atmosphere was electric, and I found myself in awe of the energy and emotions that unfolded on stage. In that moment, I realized how much I loved capturing the essence of live performances through my lens.
Concert photography became my main focus, a genre that allowed me to combine my passion for both music and photography. The thrill of capturing the energy of the performers, the excitement of the crowd, and the raw emotions on stage was an unparalleled experience. It felt like I was a part of something bigger, documenting moments that would forever be etched in the memories of both the artists and the audience.
To this day, concert photography doesn’t feel like work to me. It is a form of artistic expression that brings me immense enjoyment and fulfillment. Each time I step into a concert venue with my camera in hand, I feel a surge of excitement and anticipation. I strive to capture the essence of the music, the atmosphere, and the connection between the artists and their fans.
Photography, especially concert photography, has become an integral part of my life. It has given me the opportunity to document unforgettable moments, meet incredible artists, and share my passion with others. It has allowed me to merge my love for music and visual storytelling into a single, powerful medium.
Looking back on my journey from the age of 15-16 to where I am now, I am grateful for the escape that photography provided me and the path it has set me on. It continues to be a source of joy, inspiration, and a constant reminder that pursuing one’s passion can bring immense fulfillment in life.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
From my point of view as a photographer, videographer, and content creator, the most rewarding aspect of this creative journey is the ability to capture and preserve moments that hold deep meaning and significance. Through my lens, I have the power to freeze time, immortalize emotions, and tell stories that resonate with people.
There is an indescribable joy that comes with seeing the impact of my work on others. Whether it’s evoking a sense of nostalgia, inspiring someone to take action, or simply bringing a smile to their face, knowing that my creations have touched someone’s heart is incredibly fulfilling.
As a photographer, I have the privilege of capturing fleeting moments of beauty and transforming them into timeless works of art. I get to explore different perspectives, play with light and composition, and convey emotions through visual storytelling. The ability to express my unique vision through photography is immensely rewarding, as it allows me to communicate and connect with others on a profound level.
Similarly, as a videographer, I have the opportunity to weave narratives and create immersive experiences. Through the combination of moving images, music, and storytelling techniques, I can transport viewers to different worlds, elicit strong emotions, and ignite their imagination. The power to create compelling visual stories that leave a lasting impact is both exhilarating and gratifying.
Being a content creator in general allows me to share my voice, my ideas, and my passions with the world. It gives me the freedom to express myself authentically, without limitations. Whether it’s through photography, videography, or other forms of content, I can share my perspectives, challenge societal norms, and ignite conversations that matter.
Moreover, the process of creation itself is incredibly rewarding. The thrill of conceptualizing an idea, planning the shoot, and executing it with precision is invigorating. It pushes me to continuously learn, grow, and expand my creative boundaries. There is a constant sense of self-improvement and exploration that keeps me engaged and passionate about what I do.
Ultimately, the most rewarding aspect of being a photographer, videographer, and content creator is the ability to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Whether it’s through evoking emotions, inspiring change, or providing a different perspective, I am driven by the belief that my work can touch hearts, spark conversations, and contribute to a greater understanding of the world we live in.
The creative journey is a continuous adventure, filled with challenges and triumphs. It is a path that allows me to express myself, connect with others, and leave a lasting legacy through the art I create. The rewards of being a photographer, videographer, and content creator extend far beyond monetary gains – it is the intangible moments of connection, inspiration, and growth that make this journey truly fulfilling and worthwhile.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
When it comes to building an audience on social media, I found that consistency and the courage to share my work, regardless of my own self-doubt, played a significant role in growing my social media presence. If you’re just starting to build your social media presence, here’s some advice based on my experience:
1. Be Consistent: Consistency is key. Make a commitment to regularly post your work on social media. Whether it’s daily, a few times a week, or once a week, establish a schedule that works for you and stick to it. Consistency builds trust with your audience and keeps them engaged.
2. Embrace Imperfection: Don’t let the fear of imperfection hold you back. Understand that your work is a reflection of your creative journey, and it will evolve over time. Even if you feel like your work isn’t “good enough” in your own eyes, share it anyway. You never know who might appreciate your unique perspective or find inspiration in your progress.
3. Engage with Your Audience: Social media is a two-way street. Take the time to engage with your audience by responding to comments, answering questions, and showing genuine interest in their feedback. Building a community around your work creates a sense of connection and loyalty among your followers.
4. Use Relevant Hashtags: Hashtags are a powerful tool for discovery on social media platforms. Research and use relevant hashtags that align with your niche and target audience. This helps your work reach a wider audience beyond your immediate followers.
5. Collaborate with Others: Collaboration can be a great way to expand your reach and connect with like-minded creators. Seek opportunities to collaborate with other photographers, videographers, or content creators in your field. By cross-promoting each other’s work, you can tap into each other’s audiences and gain exposure.
6. Stay Engaged in Your Community: Actively participate in your social media community by following and engaging with other creators and industry leaders in your niche. Leave thoughtful comments on their posts, share their work if you find it inspiring, and be a supportive member of the community. This helps you build relationships and increase your visibility within your industry.
7. Analyze and Adapt: Pay attention to the analytics and insights provided by the social media platforms you use. This data can offer valuable insights into the type of content that resonates with your audience. Analyze what works well and adapt your strategy accordingly to optimize engagement and growth.
Always remember, building a social media presence takes time and patience. Be persistent, keep honing your craft, and stay true to your unique artistic vision. Share your work consistently, even if you doubt its quality, because you never know who might be inspired or impacted by it. Trust in the process and embrace the journey of growth and discovery.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.michaelnzungize.com/
- Instagram: @mike_nzng
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/michaelnzungize
Image Credits
I shot the images