At www.openletter.com.ng, we don’t just document stories, we magnify the souls behind them. And today, we invite you into the lens of a visionary. Suurudayo Ikusika is not your average camera handler. He is a moment-hunter, a storyteller, and a visual poet whose camera speaks in clear and loaded images.
From fashion shoots that feel like fine art, to documentary frames that echo the pulse of culture, to images that binds community, Suurudayo doesn’t just take pictures, he immortalizes presence. In a world where content is everywhere but meaning is rare, his work dares to be intentional, bold, and honest.
“At www.openletter.com.ng, we don’t just document stories, we magnify the souls behind them.
Khoemizona Babalola
In this rare and intimate conversation with Khoemizona Babalola, we dive into the mind and method of a photographer who refuses to be boxed in. Whether behind the camera or building bridges between image and identity, Suurudayo stands as a force of versatility, vision, and African excellence. Accept our invitation to see differently.
Your name and what do you do?
My name is Surudayo Ifeanyichukwu Ikusika. I’m a photographer and cinematographer
Tell us a little about your photography journey
It started when I gained admission into NTA Television College, Jos to study Television Production. I developed a love for filming as we were introduced to photography, video editing, television production, costume, set design, directing, and the likes. I started nursing the desire to be a photographer and filmmaker upon graduation. Along the line, we were taught that there are formal and informal types of photography. The informal entails documenting personal moments such as picnics and family gatherings, while the formal one is where you earn a living from.
What’s your motivation towards camera and how you capture your image?
My motivation towards camera have always been from my days in the college where I learned that there are two lines in production, namely above the line and below the line. People that fall above the line include actors and presenters. Camera men, directors, gaffer, and the entire production crew fall below the line. I just decided to be someone who will create things from my imagination like an author who brings characters to life through writing. I get inspiration from moments and I love the tool called camera because it helps to create and preserve memories.
What’s your definition of shoot and colors?
Color is life. I tend to resonate more with nature. Life itself is colorful.
Who are your clients?
My clients are realists. They are people I can connect with and place a great value on the services I offer.
What kind of photographer are you?
I’m currently a freelance photographer. However, I have plans to major in documentary, nature, and concerts in the near future.
What’s the photography business like in Nigeria?
It’s highly competitive, but that doesn’t mean you can’t carve a niche for yourself.
What are the challenges faced by photographers in Nigeria
One major challenge is that there is no access to funding or grants to scale one’s business. Another thing is that some clients expect you to work for peanuts. Some may even want you to render free services or work in exchange for exposure.
What would you rather say motivates your creative shoot?
Nature and people
What other things do you do apart from photography?
I’m also a cinematographer and a natural living aficionado.
Your advice for aspiring photographers
Learn the craft and understand the nitty-gritty before dabbling into the business side.
How lucrative is the business of photography?How lucrative is the business of photography?
It’s very lucrative. However, it depends on the value you place on yourself and craft over time.
What makes you and your art standout from other photographers?
My perspective, i.e., how I see things.
Since you are also a cinematographer, what has your experience been like?
I’ve been growing steadily in that area over the years. I’ve also been learning every day.
What should people look out for from you soon?
Touring and capturing the beauty of Africa.
Do you intend to go into producing your own movies or TV series too or do you intend to do just your camera things?
Sure. That’s in the works.
Your role models?
Dr. Shola Animashaun, Mr Damilola Elliot, Hakeem Salam, Mr Dayo Adedayo, and Tunde Kelani.
What inspires you?
Gospel music, nature, beautiful environment, movies, and exercising.
What’s your take on Covid-19 and how has it affected your business?
Covid-19 came with a shift and it takes keen eyes to spot the opportunities that are embedded in it. It really affected my business due to the restrictions and lockdown. Thankfully, things are picking up gradually and we’re better positioned to serve our esteemed clients better.
What should we be expecting from you soon?
Touring and capturing the beauty of Africa.
If you are not into photography and cinematography, what will you be doing?
A voice-over artist, instrumentalist, or athlete.
Suurudayo Ikusika is proof that photography is not about the gear but the gaze. It’s about the purpose behind the portrait, the story inside the stillness, and the power of capturing now for the sake of forever.
At www.openletter.com.ng, we celebrate those who do more than create but also curate culture, shape memory, and make the invisible visible. Don’t forget that as the shutter clicks, the legacy lives.
