A Busia-based photographer, known professionally as Iconic Thee Photographer, has opened up about his journey, creative focus, and the challenges shaping his work in the local industry.

Building on that hobby, the founder of IconicFiles—a photography and videography brand based in Busia town—says his journey gained purpose over time and shifted into a business with a broader social mission.
He explains, "I started photography as a hobby. Between 2019 and 2022, I learned through YouTube."
                        Iconic Thee Photographer // Via Whatsapp
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From Hobby to Community Vision

He traces his early exposure to a Canon camera owned by his uncle and his influence from a university roommate to his time studying Industrial Chemistry with IT at Maseno University. Over time, his motivation shifted.
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“It started as a hobby, next to money, and now my sole aim is to bring people together in Busia, especially the youths.”
Beyond commercial work, he says he has been visiting different areas within and outside Busia to connect young people and mentor upcoming creatives. He adds that he has already trained several individuals and contributed to the rise of new brands in the region.
                                   Iconic Thee Photographer // Via Whatsapp  

Preference for Portraits

While his brand covers both photography and videography, he says portraits remain his preferred style.
“I enjoy doing portraits because I get to know people individually. It is easier to handle individuals rather than groups.”
For events, he often delegates to a team he has trained, reflecting the shift from working alone to managing a growing operation.

Challenges in the Field

Like many creatives, he points to client expectations and working conditions as key hurdles.
“Some clients treat you like they bought you instead of understanding they bought a licence to use your work.”

He also highlights issues such as after-hours demands, high transport costs within Busia, and competition from emerging photographers. Pricing remains another balancing act, particularly when working with youth-focused projects.

“Photography is an expensive hobby, but I’ve had to charge less for youth shoots, which slows progress.”
                                       Iconic Thee Photographer // Via Whatsapp

Turnaround and Workflow

Studio and personal sessions, he says, are delivered faster.
“For studio sessions and personal shoots, it’s within three days.”

Addressing Online Complaints

Responding to past online claims from clients alleging non-delivery, he disputes the accusations and attributes them to external interference.
“None of the people I worked with came out to say they were involved… most clarified things.”
He claims the posts originated from a blogger linked to a rival photographer and maintains that his clients can reach him directly.
He concludes with a call for collaboration within the industry.
“My fall is not equal to your success. We can all be successful.”