Up-and-coming Ghanaian photographer Kojo Amin first fell in love with the medium when he discovered his brother’s camera. Fascinated by the flash of the light and the sound of the camera, he immediately became addicted to capturing his surroundings.

Q
When was the first time you were struck by a photograph or another photographer’s work?
A
I enjoy the works of Ghanaian photographer and first photojournalist in Ghana James Barnor. He has powerful black-and-white photos as well as coloured photographs that capture the Ghanaian experience; his images resonate with all people. As a pioneer of photography, who started his professional photography career in 1947, James Barnor’s works captured movement and presented stories that have been a source of inspiration.

Q
A new generation of young West-African photographers like Stephen Tayo, Daniel Obasi and Derick Boateng is emerging. What do you think of this development?
A
It is very exciting to have up and coming photographers from this area. The fact that Stephen, Daniel and Derick are from my region of the continent is inspiring. These artists, who are hailed as the “New Black Vanguard” have been creating works that depict the beauty and range of people of colour both in front of and behind the camera. I am excited that these artists are telling the story of our culture through their creative talent. It shows how the beauty of melanin reaches far and wide around the globe and how experiences of our people can relate to everyone.