A brief profile of yourself
My name is Faith Adu Afriyie known by most people as Royce; a commercial photographer and retoucher, CEO & photographer of Royce Gallery Ghana (@roycegallery). I grew up in Kotei a town off KNUST campus with my dad and siblings. Had my basic education in University Primary, with my Junior high education at Kotei RC, I then continued to Agona SDA for my senior high education and graduated Kumasi Technical University doing computer science.
What inspired you to take up photography?
I started Photography when I received a camera as a gift from my dad because I liked taking pictures of myself. Photography came as a passion but it was hard to get trainers to assist in learning and perfecting.
I took it upon myself to learn in any way possible through Google and YouTube. I also picked up inspirations from Instagram where most professional photographers showcase their works.
What kind of photography do you specialise in?
I am an editorial photographer but for now I’m into commercial which is doing all aspect of photography work to help gain money to invest in my main focus which is fashion/editorial.
Are there photographers you look up to?
The photographers I look up to in the industry I’ll say is myself and my close friend Joe Cravk (@Just_click_gh) who is also a photographer. He has inspired me in many ways and pushed me to learn harder.
Your view of the photography industry in Kumasi?
The photography industry in Kumasi is now on the rise and we learning more to push ourselves out to the world. Even though there are few challenges and competitions which sometimes bring separation in the industry, I’ll say Kumasi is really doing well in the photography space.
What do you enjoy most about photography?
As I said, photography is a passion which I thought of making a living out of won’t be bad. I enjoy every aspect because when you are passionate about something, anything you gain from it is joy.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
In some years to come, I know my works will be featured on greater platforms and the world will get to hear our stories (Ghana and Africa as a whole) through my works.
Your advice to aspiring photographers?
Never forget that not all people will support your course and dreams but never give up. There are people out there who are willing to support you. And never stop telling better stories through your art.
