Accra: Popular Ghanaian photographers, Twinsdontbeg, have shared their insights on how the role of a photographer can command the presence of even the world's most powerful individuals. In an interview with GhanaWeb's Elsie Lamar, the duo emphasized that holding a camera grants them access to exclusive spaces and opportunities they might not otherwise encounter.
According to Ghana Web, the photographers explained that being behind the camera elevates their status in any environment. They shared, "Well, the favourite part is taking it. Editing is not nice. And for us, I think it's how we're able to enter rooms in different places, because we hold the camera. And once you hold the camera, you're always the most powerful person in any place because you can command anybody to do anything."
The photographers recounted a particular experience with former President Akufo-Addo in his office, where they directed him for a photograph. They recalled someone pointing out that they were among the few who could instruct the President in such a manner, which reinforced their belief in the unique power held by photographers.
Twinsdontbeg further elaborated that photographers can command influential individuals due to the inherent value of preserving moments and telling stories. They remarked, "If you're a photographer, you can command anybody, even some of the most powerful people because everybody would love their images to be captured right. And memory to be preserved."
The photographers highlighted the long-lasting impact of their work, noting that their documentation over the past decade serves as a historical reference. They concluded, "In 50 years to time, if you want to know how Ghana was 50 years ago, they rely on photography."