Today we’d like to introduce you to Nigeria L. Myers.
Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
Growing up, my mom loved taking pictures; she loved capturing moments that would last forever. I used to follow her around at different events when I was younger. At that time, I wasn’t interested in becoming a photographer, but when my mommy had events, I had no choice but to go. Throughout the years, I found myself taking pictures all the time, literally all the time. In 2020, COVID-19 started, and I had just had surgery causing me to be out of work for a few months. I couldn’t lift or pick up anything too heavy; good thing the camera wasn’t. It was my mother’s birthday month, and I asked the golden question, “What do you want for your birthday”; I was hoping it wasn’t anything too expensive because, Lord, my mother is costly, and I didn’t have a job at the moment. However, her response was quick and sweet, she asked me to do her 39th birthday shoot, and I was just like, “Okay, Sure. Perfect. I didn’t know the basic things about lighting. I just knew to snap a picture. After her shoot, I sent some of the pictures to our family photographer to see how I did. He gave me tips and offered to meet him in Sumter, where he was doing a free session. Rodney, the owner of OMOS (One Moment One Shot Photography), never hesitated to toss me the camera when I would show up to any event he had when I said, “Let me take the pictures.” After posting my mom’s pictures, I received my first few clients within two days, my cousin Twanmekia, then later that day, my other cousin Chrisandra. Being a rookie, I was shocked, not knowing if I would succeed in this career. I started my first shoot at $75.00, and at that moment, I thought I would get rejected, but it was a success. Now here I am going on three years later.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has been a smooth road. Every day, you learn something new. I have always been the type of person who’s always down to learn something new. It allows me to teach it to someone else. I would say it’s like being a bridge to help someone else along the way. I have met many people with different ethical backgrounds, Capturing moments from a five-month-old baby to 81 years lady; that’s my favorite part about being a photographer; you’re able to see people smile or bring them out of their comfort zone. If I had, picked a struggle, it would be, but it’s not a struggle but self-doubting yourself, not knowing what others may say once you’ve posted or what others share because we are our worst critics. The anxiety builds on the inside, but it has faded over the years.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. What can you tell our readers who might need to be more familiar with what you do?
Photography and Videography are bigger than just snapping a picture or recording something to get paid. I love seeing smiling faces and the feeling they bring people happiness. I have a varied background in photography, family shoot, funeral services, church events, birthday parties, and anything you can think of in photography I have done. However, this year I was granted the opportunity to return to my alma mater, Camden High School, for this year’s basketball season. I remember seeing the newly appointed head boys basketball coach, Sterling Council, in five below; I just asked a question about being a sponsor for the upcoming season. As months passed, a conversation with Coach Council at a jamboree game sparked again, leading me to become the photographer/videographer for the season. In my community, I would say Im known for being the young lady with the camera under the basketball goals, as an old teacher called me the “Kodak Girl.” I am proud that I can serve in my community, which helped shape me into who I am. It has also allowed me to do what I love, working with kids while building a bond. I am blessed to showcase and highlight some of the brightest student-athletes, such as Israel Macklin, Quandre Wilson, Joyce Edwards, Morgan Champion, Tateyiona Harris, Braylin Mungo, Harmony Jefferson, and so many more I could name. Also, Camden High Lady Bulldogs are the 3A State Champions. What sets me apart from others is I don’t mind being a bridge. I consider this ministry as well. We all need someone to help us reach the next level, unlock those hidden gifts buried in us, and know that teamwork makes the dream work. As Coach Council lifted me as he climbed the ladder, it opened many doors for me to network with people like Mr. Brian Mayes in organizations such as Boys & Girls Clubs and Make It A Conversation and connect with other schools and churches. I’m honored. I’m always amazed when people think of me because it’s a million other people they could think of, but they chose little ole Nigeria. Most importantly, I keep God first. I am a true believer that your gift will make room for you.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
It’s a famous saying I love to say to others, “ Life as you climb,” meaning as you elevate, bring someone else along. My advice would always introduce yourself first and allow others to get to know you first. It is necessary to make that connection so they can know you outside of a professional field. Also, set your goals, write them out, and have a plan in case plans A or B fail. Always be willing to take advice from others and not think they are trying to tear you down; when people see your willingness and potential, they do anything to help you succeed. The most important but crucial advice I can give is to remain humble; it will take places money can’t.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://myersnigeria.wixsite.com/nigerialmyers
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/nigerialmyers?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NigeriaLMyers.shoots
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/NigeriaLMyers
Image Credits
Barry Clark Photography- HeadshotPhoto of Photographer
