State of Mind
Raw, angsty, unconventional
Photographs By Chima AGBUGBA
Conceptual photographer Chima Agbugba opens up about breaking boundaries, having fun on set, and experiencing triumph over self-doubt.
Abuja, Nigeria
EDGE
How did you begin your journey as a photographer?
I started photography as a hobby. I was idle at that time. A few bucks came in and I copped a camera, hit the street, and started shooting willy nelly . I have been photographing for 3 years now
What have you learned along the way?
You have to stand on business. There’s a lot of fake motion and users in this industry, so you have to filter your surroundings or else you’re gonna be running in circles
How would you describe your work in 3 words?
Raw, angsty, unconventional
Why do you love portrait photography? How does it inspire you?
I wouldn’t consider my work portrait photography. My work leans more into the unconventional and conceptual. I love it because it breaks boundaries for what is considered normal in photography and makes me stand out.
Tell the story behind one of your images.
My recent work ‘Till Death'. Folks don’t know that I did that project on my worst health. I was so ill AF that day. I was taking breaks to go puke and gather strength.
TILL DEATH
How do you approach each photo shoot? What is your process like?
My process is chaos. I get inspired by what I see and what happens in my head. When a thought drops, I start brainstorming on how best to execute it, and scout the model and location that matches that imagination.
What is your favorite part about collaborating with a team?
The fun on set. I have fun and always try to make sure everyone with me is in the right state of mind.
What kind of struggles have you encountered as a photographer?
Self doubt kills me every-time but I always triumph
You are based in Abuja, Nigeria. What is the art scene like? What do you love about it and what needs to improve?
My creative scene is insane, cant lie. There are insanely talented folks in Abuja. I love how everybody is just doing their thing and going crazy with it
If you can give advice to an aspiring photographer, what would you say?
Quit, we are too much already hahaha just kidding. There’s enough sky for all us and I wish you well
What's next for you?
World domination
To See More of Chima’s work, follow @highimchima
SENTINELS
A MOTH TO FLAME
SWING
UNTITLED
ABOVE ALL
FLOATICA
FLESH & METAL
INFERNO ||
PERCHED
DUNE ROGUE
SIREN
STARE
HIGH TENSION
EXILE
TIRE-D
ASCEND
OMO
INFERNO
