CHICAGO BRAND PHOTOGRAPHER
Hi I'm Ekemini. I photograph founders and brands who are building something that matters.
Brand photographer based in Chicago and Evanston. Specializing imagery for founders, thought leaders and brands who are exceptional at what they do and deserve visuals that reflect it.
A LITTLE ABOUT ME
I didn't start here. But I was always headed here.
Photography has been in my blood since childhood. My father always had a camera in his hand, and somewhere along the way, I caught that same instinct to look for the moment, to find the story in it. I saved money from my very first job to buy a proper camera and I’ve been captivated since.
Before I picked up a camera professionally, I spent years in the classroom as a science teacher. I loved it. But it was motherhood that reignited something deeper — a desire to capture moments, to preserve what matters, to tell the story of my family, and then others. That’s when I knew this stopped being my “expensive hobby.”
I started Essien Gerdel Photography in 2023, and I brought everything with me — my Nigerian heritage, my background in education, my eye for detail, and a deep belief that the people I photograph deserve to be seen fully. Not just photographed. Seen
What I believe
The philosophy behind every session
Visibility is power
When brands are seen fully, in their expertise, presence, and power everything changes. Your images are part of that shift.
Strategy before the shutter
I spend time understanding your business before we ever pick up a camera. Every image I create has a purpose and a place.
You deserve to feel seen
You deserve to feel celebrated” · “Every client walks away feeling confident, seen, and reminded that the work they do matters. That’s not an accident; it’s the whole point.”
Experience
The photographer behind the lens
I’ve had a camera in my hand since high school, it’s always been part of who I am
Started Essien Gerdel Photography in 2023 Former science teacher — I bring the same patience and curiosity to every session
Based in Chicago & Evanston, serving the North Shore
“Stop searching you’ve found the best. I’ve worked with Ekemini on several high end shoots and she is an artist. Her camera is her paintbrush and her photos are truly beautiful. But more than that she comes in with a strategy and creativity and beautifully calm energy. My team and I can’t wait to work with her again.”
Taja W
Walk Productions
Based in
Chicago’s North Shore. Evanston local
Fueled by
A cup of tea in a fancy teacup and the quiet before the kid shenanigans begin
Obsessed with
Thrifting my way to a sustainable, intentional closet and watching women show up bravely in their right now.
Clients say
She makes you feel celebrated before you even see the photos.
Ready to work together?
Let's align your visuals with your expertise.
Every client starts with a conversation. I’m your Chicago brand photographer — tell me about your business and what you’re building. I’ll take it from there.
Brand photographer serving Chicago · Evanston · North Shore