Renowned Kenyan photographer Kapedo has issued a stern warning to young and upcoming photographers about working with celebrities without contracts. Over recent months, he has used his Instagram Stories to share frustrations from unpaid gigs and experiences that cost him time and money.
During an interview with Oga Obinna, Kapedo made it clear that he will never work with a celebrity without a written, legal contract. “I will never ever photograph a celebrity unless we have a written contract, a legal and written one. I will not call you for my money, no, my lawyer will call you,” he said.
Kapedo recounted a wedding he covered about six months ago for a celebrity couple whose names he did not disclose. He said he paid for his own transport and accommodation, believing he would be compensated. Despite delivering his services, the couple failed to pay him. “We go to the wedding and finish everything. Then we come back to Nairobi,” he recalled.
He added that normally he shares teaser edits before completing a full project, but for this event, he refrained from doing so. “Something about that day, I felt that I shouldn’t edit. Then I called the celebrity who was in charge, and I told him that they forgot to send me the deposit. They don’t say anything. We stayed for a week or two with no money. Then I’m like, guys what’s up? My money?” he said.
When Kapedo confronted the bride, she referred him to her husband. He called the groom, who rudely claimed all vendors had been paid. Kapedo verified that other vendors were also unpaid and reminded the couple of their agreement. “The groom was rude, and he told me that he did not care. I gave them two months to pay me, and then they could get their pictures. It’s been six months,” he said.
Kapedo also noted that other celebrities have attempted to lure photographers with promises of exposure or advertising, rather than guaranteed payment. “I am telling you if there are gigs that will pay you, they are not from celebrities,” he added.
Through his experiences, Kapedo emphasizes the importance of legal agreements when working with high-profile clients, encouraging young photographers to protect their work and ensure they are fairly compensated.
