As the world celebrates World Photography Day, Zahra’u Gambo Lawan, one of the few female photographers in Kano, says she is using her camera to challenge stereotypes and encourage more young girls to tell stories through pictures.
Speaking with Kano Times, Zahra’u discussed her background, journey and the challenges she faces as a woman navigating photography in northern Nigeria.
“I started photography in school during my entrepreneurship course in level four. That was when I realised I loved it,” she said.
To sharpen her skills, she later enrolled at Bluelens Photography School. “That was really the beginning of my journey,” she added.
Zahra’u said her inspiration comes from the ability of photographs to “capture special moments and tell stories without words,” adding, “I want to make people happy with pictures they will keep forever.”
She admitted that convincing her family was initially difficult. “They were not very sure because photography is not common for ladies. But when they saw I was serious and people loved my work, they supported me.”
Being a female photographer in Kano, Zahra’u said, comes with hurdles. “Sometimes people don’t take you seriously or think the work is only for men. Moving around for jobs as a woman is not always easy,” she said.
She also believes women in photography are not getting their fair share of opportunities. “Most times government jobs go to men. But we also want female photographers to be included, because we have talent and can represent Kano well.”
Despite the challenges, Zahra’u remains proud of her progress. “Winning an award for my photography was one of my happiest moments. It gave me confidence that hard work pays off.”
Looking ahead, she hopes to grow beyond Kano. “I see myself working internationally and using my pictures to inspire more young girls to join photography,” she said.
