Kenyan businessman and billionaire Jimnah Mbaru once said that Passion and purpose are essential for success as an entrepreneur, so it’s important to find something that inspires and motivates you.

This message rings true to Wellington Odhiambo a Kenyan photographer whose passion for photography has propelled him to success.

Odhiambo, popularly known as Poppy the Photographer, is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Poppy Studios, a photography studio based in Roysambu along Lumumba Drive, Nairobi.

The 25-year-old revealed he started photography as a hobby but later took it seriously after realizing its potential for a fortune.

”I developed an interest in photography when I was young and my family would always request me to take photos during family gatherings. I never took it seriously but after joining college, I realized I can make a lot of money through Photography,’’  he said.

Through his family’s support, the Uzuri Institute Journalism graduate acquired a camera, and in 2019, he started a photography business in Thika.

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His business, which then operated under the name Poppy Photography, was frequented by students from Mount Kenya University and other colleges in Thika.

His work went noticed, opening more opportunities, and it was not long before he put up his own fully equipped photography Studio in Roysambu, thanks to his business acumen.

”In this field it is all about marketing yourself and being unique because that is what will sell you. I try as much as possible to ensure my editing work is unique, and that is what attracts more clients to my services.

”Also know how to treat clients well. Give them what they want, and they’ll come back for more,’’ Poppy added.

He offers various services, including wedding and events coverage, birthday shoots, newborn shoots, baby shower, and corporate events coverage, among others.

His journey has, however, not been a smooth sail as he has faced multiple challenges, among them rogue clients who fail to pay despite getting good services.

While establishing a fully equipped photography studio can be very costly, Poppy, who started with Sh300,000, advises anyone intending to step into the venture to start with what they have and keep growing with time.

”In this field, you must be patient. Don’t start your business and start comparing yourself to someone else who has been there a long time before you. Also, don’t pressure yourself trying to acquire gadgets you cannot afford. Start with what you have,’’ Poppy advised.