Meet Brad Ogbonna

{ On capturing human wonders }

Credit: The Fader

Brad Ogbonna knows how to capture the essential details of his subjects to create breathtaking portraits. His work depicts a realistic and complete chronicle of an inspirational generation across the borders and tries to get their emotions and history through the eye of a lense. He also developed a strong portfolio of travel and lifestyle projects throughout the years. Brad has not even turned 30 and has already worked for many renowned titles like The New York Times, Esquire, Nylon or Vogue US and collaborated with artists such as Kehinde Wiley. 

What struck us besides Brad's love for travel and his Nigerian roots, is the fact that he is a self-taught artist that trained and learned his own skills to become a talent. And also the feeling that his work is a continuous process of exploring the beauty of the people and places too often hidden to the world.
Brad is sharing a bit more about himself and his creative routine with unfaded. 
 

Who are you Brad?

I was born and raised in the Twin Cities, Minnesota and now I work and reside in New York City as a photographer. 
My work has appeared in the New York Times, Esquire, Vogue, W Mag, and The Fader. And I’ve shot campaigns for Adidas Originals and Diesel + EDUN in Johannesburg, Nairobi, and Lagos. 
 

How did you come up with being a photographer?

I more or less have done it as a hobby since my Jr. High school. I’ve always been enamored with photography and loved capturing moments of my friends and the people I came across. 

Where do you get your inspiration from? 

Definitely the people around me first and foremost. My surroundings. I watch a lot of movies and I’m always checking out different people’s work. Books! Checking out gallery shows and museums. I draw inspiration from a lot of different places. 

Credit: File Magazine

What's your favorite part about what you do?

Getting to meet new people, travel to new places, and do something a little bit different than the day before. Also creating a timeless image always makes me feel happy. 

What's the best advice you would give people who struggle to realize their dreams?

That’s a tough one because I deal with self-doubt daily, but really just keep at it and shoot as much as you can and don’t be afraid to make mistakes a long the way. 
I’ve been trying to live by the general rule that the harder you work the more good things will follow. I keep that in mind and try to stay positive and stay busy. 
 

Where can we find you in NYC? 

I really like hanging out in Prospect Park. 
My apartment. 
And really anywhere outside. I think I enjoy the city the most when I’m walking outside.
My favorite neighborhoods are Fort Greene, Chinatown, the West Village, Soho, Ditmas Park, and maybe the Upper East Side?

Take a look at his work on www.bradogbonna.com and follow his explorations on his Instagram @bradogbonna.