Regularly uploading to Alamy since 2016, Rod Olukoya has an ever-growing collection of images that perfectly embody the heart and soul of city life in London. His street photography captures the many characters who reside there, and he uses his images to frame their diverse nuances and connect subject to viewer through moments of joy, frustration, passion and quiet reflection. Rod explains to us that it’s important to tell stories, not just take pictures, and looking through his body of work he is certainly successful in taking his own advice.
So let’s take a visit to London with Rod and find out what makes him tick.
LG: How long have you been a photographer and what made you want to get into photography?
RW: For over 15 years, photography has been a part of my life, but I’ve only considered myself a photographer for the past 10 years. It was during this time that I truly began to understand the technical aspects of my craft, and even now, the learning never stops.
Photography has always drawn me in for many reasons. I’m inspired by the beauty of the world around us, finding joy in capturing fleeting moments and weaving stories through images. Through my work, I strive to express emotions, tell compelling narratives, and highlight beauty in unique ways.
Above all, I hope my photography encourages people to notice the details in the world – small moments, subtle textures, and overlooked wonders – that might otherwise go unseen.
We move through the world, caught in our own rhythms, passing moments and scenes without truly noticing them. Through my photography, I try to shine a light on these everyday, not-so-hidden gems – small wonders waiting to be seen.
LG: What kind of story do you want to tell with your photos?
RW: Whether it’s street, landscape, reportage, or wildlife photography, there’s something truly magical about how it slows down time and reshapes our perspective of the world. Behind the lens, my goal is simple: to make people feel something – even if just for a fleeting second.
The stories I tell through my photographs center on human connection, quiet moments, and the unexpected beauty found in everyday life. It feels natural to me because, first and foremost, I shoot for myself. My eye is drawn to the details, the passing glances, the moments of wonder that might otherwise go unnoticed. My hope is to share these glimpses of beauty with others, passing on a world that is both familiar and entirely new.
LG: What’s your all-time favourite shot from your collection and why?
RW: The images of my daughter, captured over the 12 years she’s been in this world, hold a special place in my heart. Beyond those, choosing a favorite photograph is nearly impossible – I’ve never confined myself to one style or subject. I love all forms of photography, seeking beauty and intrigue in everything I shoot.
My favorite image shifts constantly, changing with the day, the emotion, the light. If I had to choose, it would be a photograph that embodies light and emotion – perhaps a quiet portrait or a landscape where light plays the lead role. There’s something deeply powerful about how light can shape a scene, almost as though it has its own personality. I imagine a person sitting by a window at sunset, golden light streaming in, casting elongated shadows, wrapping everything in warmth and reflection. That kind of image would symbolize the essence of photography itself – a reminder that moments, whether ordinary or extraordinary, are fleeting yet profoundly beautiful.
LG: What motivates you to keep on making images and being creative?
RW: The motivation to keep creating comes from a deep need to capture what might otherwise slip through the cracks of daily life. It’s about having a vision and transforming it into something tangible – whether a fleeting moment, a raw emotion, or a quiet idea. The process itself is endlessly fulfilling, allowing me to see familiar things in new ways and experiment with fresh techniques.
There’s also the drive to express something unique. I often say we look but do not see. We move through the world, caught in our own rhythms, passing moments and scenes without truly noticing them. Through my photography, I try to shine a light on these everyday, not-so-hidden gems – small wonders waiting to be seen.
Even in a world saturated with images, no one will see things exactly as I do. That’s where the personal touch and storytelling come in. The ever-evolving nature of photography, the constant learning, the excitement of discovery – there’s always something new to explore.
On a deeper level, photography allows me to create images that I feel personally connected to – expressing thoughts I might not have words for, telling stories that only I can tell.
LG: What advice would you give to a fellow photographer who is just starting out?
RW: Shoot, shoot, and shoot
Practice as often as you can. Even when you don’t feel inspired, shoot. Some of the best shots come from everyday moments. Keep your camera close – you never know when the perfect opportunity will appear.
Vision over gear
Don’t get caught up in chasing the most expensive equipment. Cameras today, including smartphones, are incredibly capable. A good eye always beats a good camera – master light, composition, and storytelling first.
Understand lenses
Different lenses shape perspective, depth, and mood. Learn how each affects the feel of an image.
Study great photography
Analyse photos that move you – ask yourself: What makes this powerful? Try to recreate their technique – not as copying, but as learning. Over time, your unique style will emerge naturally. Follow both classic and modern photographers to see how styles evolve.
Editing enhances, not fixes
Learn editing software like Lightroom or Capture One, but remember – editing should elevate your vision, not correct poor shots. A great image starts in-camera. You can’t polish a turd!
Seek feedback and stay humble
Share your work. Listen to critiques. Growth comes from constructive feedback – don’t take it personally.
Let your voice emerge naturally
There’s no rush to define a signature style. Experiment with different genres – portrait, street, documentary – until you find what resonates.
Tell stories, not just take pictures
Consider why you’re capturing an image. What story or emotion are you conveying? The most powerful photos evoke feeling, curiosity, or reflection.
Connect with other photographers
Join online communities or local meetups. Collaborating and exchanging ideas is invaluable for growth.
Be patient—progress takes time
Some of your best work will come years down the line. Stay curious, keep evolving, and most importantly – enjoy the journey.
We hope you enjoyed this spotlight highlighting Rod’s great work, perhaps it’s even inspired you to get out there and photograph your communities and the interesting characters to be found there! To see more of Rod’s images, check out his collection on Alamy here, and follow him on Instagram here.
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