Street photographers turn passion into livelihood despite the rise of smartphone cameras

Despite the growing number of smartphones with high-quality cameras, many street photographers continue to earn a living by offering professional photography services.

While some have chosen photography as a career, others turned to it after struggling to find employment.

"I did Cyber Security, but I didn't finish because I couldn't pay my school fees. I decided I couldn't continue burdening my parents, so I came to the streets to earn money and help pay my fees," Kim Dilan said.

Daniel Brian has been working as a street photographer for the past year after previously working with a YouTuber for one year and three months. Both photographers say their passion for the craft was inspired by different experiences.Kim says renowned photographer Kapedo motivated him to pursue photography.

"Kapedo really inspired me. I saw the art in his photography and I decided to join photography so that one day I can reach the level he is at. I'm aiming even higher," he said.

For Daniel, the dream began while he was still in school.

"Nikiwa primary na high school nilikuwa fan wa Ten Over Ten. Nilikuwa naona editing na venye cameras zilikuwa zinafanya kazi, nikajiambia siku moja nitakuwa narecord watu hivyo," he said.

The photographers say attracting clients requires more than owning a camera. They rely on sample photos, social media platforms, and persuasion skills to convince potential customers to choose their services. According to Kim, earnings vary depending on the day.

"On weekdays unaweza make KSh3,000 to KSh4,000. Weekends, especially Sundays, are usually better because many people are out in town taking photos. Unaweza make at least KSh6,000," he said.

Technology has also transformed the way they work. Today, they edit photos and videos using mobile applications such as CapCut and AI-powered editing tools, allowing them to deliver finished work to clients within minutes.

"Kitambo mtu alikuwa anangoja hard copy. Siku hizi nampiga picha, naedit kwa simu yangu, halafu namtumia hapo hapo. Kila kitu nafanya na simu," Daniel explained.

They say the same technology has also increased competition.

 "Technology imetusaidia, lakini pia imetuathiri. Mtu anaweza kusema hana haja ya photographer kwa sababu anaweza kupiga picha na simu yake na kutumia AI kubadilisha muonekano wake," said Brages Silvanus.

Even with these challenges, the photographers continue to market their work through social media and depend on photography to earn a living.

The profession has enabled them to pay rent, settle bills, support themselves and for some, continue pursuing their education while creating their own employment opportunities.