Photography as a Coping Mechanism

Daniel Uchu
2 min readJun 6, 2023

This week holds immense significance for me, carrying a weighty responsibility that naturally brings a considerable amount of pressure. Perhaps some of it is self-imposed, as I’ve been immersed in a whirlwind of anticipation in the weeks leading up to this moment.

You see, this week is our Youth Week in church, and the youth will be taking charge of all the activities throughout the week. I’ve been right at the forefront, diving into the planning and organizing because, oh well, I’m the head. So…. Yes…. Pressure choke

However, when I opened my gallery and saw this captivating yet simple image of Abodunrin I shot, in an instant, a wave of relief washed over me. There’s something about her innate cheerfulness that radiates, be it through text or in person. She truly embodies the essence of a cheerful and playful soul. Abodunrin is undeniably one of those cherished clients for whom I am eternally grateful to God.

This image of Abodunrin has become my symbol of tranquility and hope; it serves as a profound source of solace and an uplifting force that renews my spirit amidst the challenges. It reminds me of the transformative power of portraiture and the positive impact it can have on both the photographer and the subject. Also, amidst the pressure and challenges we face both as individuals and as a society, we’re creating something truly special together.
It’s moments like these that reaffirm my faith and dedication to photography.

As I embark on this crucial week, I draw strength from the gratitude I hold for clients like Abodunrin and the opportunity to bring their stories to life through my images.

May this image be a testament to the resilience within us all and a reminder that even in the face of pressure, there exists a wellspring of joy and gratitude that propels us forward.

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Daniel Uchu

I am a portrait photographer learning to communicate my everyday thoughts, one word at a time.