Temi Adegbayibi Captures UK Jazz Energy Through Light
Photographer Temi Adegbayibi discusses his technique of using slow shutter speeds and light to capture the movement and joy of British jazz musicians
Freelance photographer Temi Adegbayibi, 26, uses slow shutter speeds, light, and layering to create images that feel like 'painting with light,' according to a profile in The Guardian. His work focuses on capturing the movement, intimacy, and joy of Black musicians within the UK's jazz scene.
Technical Fascination with Movement
Adegbayibi's interest in movement has evolved into a technical exploration. Inspired by visual artist Kat Anderson, he experiments with slow shutter speeds to blur motion, alongside careful manipulation of light and layered exposures. He describes the goal as creating photographs that 'almost feel like you’re painting with light.' This approach was central to his solo exhibition at the Royal Albert Hall, which explored 'how energetic, but also still, jazz moments can be while I’m taking pictures.'
Portraying Black Joy and Community
The photographer consciously resists stereotypical portrayals in his work. 'Black people and musicians are often portrayed as aggressive, violent or angry,' Adegbayibi states. He sees his photography as serving 'as an example of Black joy and the truth behind Black communities; what we are actually like.' He particularly seeks out spontaneous moments of release and smiles, noting, 'You’re spoiled for choice with the amount of beautiful smiles flying around.'
Building a Career from Passion
Adegbayibi first picked up a camera to photograph his cousin's church worship band, later building a portfolio by approaching small artists at local gigs. His confidence grew as more people reached out after seeing his work on Instagram. A turning point came in 2022 after photographing the band Ezra Collective at the Love Supreme jazz festival; seeing those images convinced him photography could be more than a hobby. His subsequent work with the band, including their 2023 Royal Albert Hall show, led to a solo exhibition and a role as one of the venue's in-house photographers.
Five Notable Shots
Adegbayibi highlighted five of his photographs, detailing the techniques and settings used to capture each moment.
He finds motivation in London's competitive photography community, using it as a driving force. Seeing his work's potential place in a historical lineage at the V&A East's 'The Music Is Black' exhibition gave him hope that future viewers might look at his images to understand 'what jazz gigs were like back then.'
