By Bilesanmi Abayomi
Olumide Olusoga, popularly known as Otunba Baalabe, and the Head of the camera unit and production department at Biscon Communications (BisconTV), has delivered an inspiring message to fellow cinematographers on the occasion of his birthday. He emphasized the importance of passion as the driving force behind a successful career in cinematography.
As he celebrated his birthday, Otunba Baalabe reflected on his remarkable journey in the world of cinematography. He recalled instances where his dedication to his craft led him to undertake challenging assignments. One such memory was traveling for up to 5 hours by sea to cover an event involving Former Governor Timipre Sylva of Bayelsa State.
Otunba Baalabe’s commitment to his work went beyond long journeys. He revealed that there were times when he went without food for up to two days while working behind the camera because he couldn’t eat the local food. However, he expressed that once he was behind the camera, all other concerns faded into the background.
Throughout his illustrious career, Otunba Baale has had the privilege of covering numerous celebrity events and high-profile occasions. Some of the notable events he has captured include the recent inauguration of President Bola Tinubu, as well as the presidencies of Muhammadu Buhari and Goodluck Jonathan, along with the late President Umaru Yar’Adua.
In the realm of weddings, Otunba Baalabe’s lens has captured moments from significant ceremonies, including the weddings of the late President Yar’Adua’s daughter, President Jonathan’s daughter, Stella Obasanjo’s son, Alameigha’s children, Governor Hope Uzodima’s twins, and the late former first lady’s father in Okirika, Port Harcourt.
His portfolio extends globally, encompassing events such as the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, Ghana’s 50th Independence Anniversary, the opening of Dangote Cement factories across Africa, and Chief Igbenidion’s events in London and South Africa.
Otunba Baalabe’s lens has also chronicled the milestones of prominent individuals, including Chief Mrs. Bola Shagaya’s 60th Birthday, billionaire Femi Otedola’s mother’s 90th birthday, and the coronations of the new Olu of Warri and the Ooni of Ife, among others.