“I wanted to open that conversation and have them be more accepting of their beautiful skin and know it isn’t a problem.”
- MORGAN OTAGBURUAGU
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rowing up in Abia State and Lagos, Otagburuagu
was greatly influenced by his vibrant surroundings. The celebration of life among
Lagosians—their warmth, vibrancy, and beauty—is vividly reflected in his work. These influences have shaped his artistic vision, allowing him to capture the essence of his subjects in a way that is both authentic and inspiring. Challenging societal perceptions of Black beauty has always been a driving force behind his work. From a young age, Otagburuagu saw how being Black was often stigmatized and how darker-skinned women were unfairly labeled. He was determined to open a conversation about this discrimination and encourage acceptance and appreciation of Black beauty. His work inspires Black women to embrace their skin and recognize its inherent beauty. Otagburuagu's mastery of light is a hallmark of his photography, drawing inspiration from the works of Dutch painter Rembrandt. "Photography means painting with light, so lighting is the base of any successful photography” project, says the perfectionist. And like a painter, Otagburuagu often sketches a visual representation of his intended image before his shoots. This meticulous preparation allows him to see what works and what doesn't, letting creativity flow as he collaborates with his subjects. His approach to shooting Black women requires a deep knowledge of light to enhance their natural beauty, and he often uses a beauty dish as his go-to light modifier.
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