Documenting Authenticity Through My Eyes

1st Gen, Queer Nigerian-American Photographer & Creator & Curator - Ashabi Owagboriaye

Being born and raised in Chicago, I’ve had the chance to grow and shape my style as both a model and a photographer in a city that really celebrates self-expression. It’s helped me approach each shoot with a clear focus on my subject’s vision, while still adding my own creative touch to the memories we capture together.

Every time I get to create, it’s an opportunity to bring out truth, beauty, and presence with the people I work with. I love being able to give each session a fresh perspective and real attention to detail. Creating a comfortable space is something I take pride in—it’s what helps people feel at ease and show up as their true selves. And that’s what makes the images so special: they reflect genuine moments, full of joy and meaning, exactly as they are.

My style blends photojournalism with artistic portraiture; think of it as a balance between real, unscripted moments and intentional, creative framing.

A lot of my joy as a photographer comes from being able to capture moments that matter most to me. I love knowing that I got the shot of an artist hyping up the crowd at a concert or that hearty laugh from the best man at the wedding reception; those are the moments that matter most to me.

I’m often drawn towards illuminating these emotions; constantly looking for ways to memorializing them. For that reason, My images to feel genuine and true. That’s the experience I aim to give, one i know you’ll enjoy revisiting

Ashabi is Based in Chicago; Open to Travel for Specific Projects.