Cinematography emerges as a powerful tool where stories are brought to life. With an intricate role in shaping visual narratives, cinematographers help bring a story to life. It’s no clear surprise that Nigerian cinema has witnessed significant growth over the years, with cinematographers honing their craft in visual storytelling.
They are visionaries whose works stand as a celebration of tradition, modernity, innovation and cultural richness. Inspired by their work, DigiMillennials has taken pride in spotlighting five dynamic forces whose captivating visuals are leaving an indelible mark on our screens.
Fedworks
Amidst Nigeria’s creative boom, Fedworks, real name Chukwuka Davidson Edeogu, is a standout cinematographer shaping the trajectory of Nigeria’s music scene. His visual mastery is evident in iconic music videos, such as Wizkid’s ‘Diamonds’ and ‘IDK,’ BNXN’s ‘Gwagalada,’ CKay’s ‘Emiliana,’ Ayra Starr’s ‘Sability,’ and Rema’s ‘Charm’ and ‘Dirty.’
Fedworks has also lent his artistic touch to TV commercials (including Burna Boy x Havana and Johnny Walker), fashion pieces for MAC, documentaries for Lonely Planet, MARS and many more – solidifying his impact on Nigeria’s dynamic creative landscape. Fedworks is showing that he is not stopping anytime soon as he is steadily building himself to the top and forever changing the world of storytelling.
Muhammad Atta
Muhammad Atta is an influential figure whose creative lens continues to leave a significant mark in both music and movies. His impact is not just felt in music videos, but also in the captivating work of movies and documentaries. He has worked with top-notch artist across the scene such as Davido, Angelique Kidjo, Burna Boy, Boj, Pheelz, Ayra Starr, Adesua Etomi, Omah Lay, BNXN, Adekunle Gold, Lady Donli to name a few.
Through this, his most notable work has to be in the music video of Brown Skin Girl by Beyonce, Blue Ivy, SAINt JHN and Wizkid which saw him win an MTV VMAs. He is also a winner for the African Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards for his role in the movie, Rattlesnake (2022).
Muyiwa Oyedele, “Mr Movies”
Olumuyiwa Olugbenga Oyedele is currently one of the most popular and in-demand cinematographers in Nigeria. His collaborations with some of the finest directors in the industry has attested to his rising prominence in the film industry which has landed him the nickname, “Mr Movies”. He has worked with the best in the industry from Jade Osiberu (Gangs of Lagos), UAX, Perliks, Dammy Twitch, Director K, Pink Film and so many more. His goal has always been about bringing to life compelling storytelling which he has continued to achieve.
Barnabas “Barny” Emordi
Barnabas “Barny” Emordi is a renowned cinematographer who has made impact on some of Nollywood’s biggest films. Some of his works include, A Tribe called Judah, Ada Omo Daddy, Prophetess, The Ghost and the Tout Too, The House of Secrets, Palava!, Hey You!, Superstar, Elevator Baby and a lineup of documentaries.
Barnabas has shown that he is intentional in breaking boundaries as he directed Netflix’s original documentary series, “Stories of a Generation with Pope Francis”, and bridged the gap between Bollywood and Nollywood seen in the project, “Namaste Wahala”. His work is evident of his creativity prowess.
K.C. Obiajulu
K.C. Obiajulu is a seasoned cinematographer who has worked with a track of artists such as Asa, Burna Boy, Wizkid, Tems, Beyonce, Reekado Banks, Ayra Starr, Kizz Daniel, Ladipoe, Simi, Sauti Sol and a lot more. His works extends to some of our favourite movies and series like Skinny Girl in Transit, Knockout Blessing, Lockdown, Love, Lust & Other Things to mention a few as well as commercials for MTN, DSTV, Golden Penny, Infinix and a lot more.
K.C. Obiajulu is a respected DOP in the industry and driven with a purpose of showcasing his works more in documentaries. It’s left to say that we cannot wait to see what the future holds for him.
