#ThroughMyLens: Omotayo Tijani on Finding Stories in Color and Emotion

In this edition of #ThroughMyLens, we meet Omotayo Tijani, a photographer whose work transcends traditional visuals to explore feeling, texture, and narrative. Known for his eye-catching editorials and collaborations with music heavyweights like Davido and Rema, Omotayo is now carving out a new space that merges fashion, storytelling, and emotion.

Omotayo’s relationship with photography wasn’t instant, it was earned. “I’ve always been drawn to capturing moments, but figuring out how was tough,” he admits.

Everything shifted when he enrolled in a photography class, a turning point that sparked a deep and focused exploration of the medium. He began in lifestyle photography, capturing the raw energy of real-life settings, often working closely with artists and creators from the music industry. These early collaborations gave him a strong foundation, but something was missing.

“I craved storytelling through my work,” he says.

That craving led him to fashion editorials, a space where he could weave visual stories that blended personal experience with universal themes.

His latest project is a celebration of the world around us, a vibrant series focused on everyday wonders, expressed through color, texture, and emotion. “I wanted to explore how essential colors are, so I mixed reds, blues, greens, blacks, and yellows to capture their impact,” Omotayo explains.

From subtle shifts in light to bold, saturated tones, the project invites viewers to slow down and experience how color shapes our perception of life and emotion.

Omotayo’s creative approach begins with the world itself. “I create a mood board based on what inspires me, gather a team that shares my vision, and then we bring it to life. It’s pretty straightforward, really,” he says with a smile.

It’s a method that grounds his work in honesty, whether it’s a quiet editorial moment or a bold visual statement.

After years of working on pictorial stories, Omotayo is ready to evolve. He’s currently directing his first short film, an emotional exploration of human feeling.

“I’ve directed many photography projects, so I felt it was time to dive into film,” he says. “This project is close to me, it’s about feelings and how we carry them. I’m excited to share it when it’s ready.”

As he expands into new mediums, one thing remains constant: Omotayo’s work is rooted in emotion, connection, and the art of observation.

Stay connected with Omotayo Tijani (@tayothecreatorr) as he continues to shape the visual culture with every frame, every color, and every story.

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