Before Ruth Niyonkuru became a professional photographer, she liked taking pictures of various bird species. Back home, birds of all types settled, which captured her attention and so she’d never leave the house without a camera. After taking photos, Niyonkuru, who was born and raised in Gikondo, Kigali, would go through them and admire her work, and how different the birds looked in picture. “I started photography in 2014 as a hobby since I was passionate about it. In September 2016, after I got a certificate from IBTC, I started doing it professionally,” she says. Since starting her career, Niyonkuru has managed to take diverse photos in Nyungwe National Park, Akagera National Park and other touristic places. Some of her pictures. The photographer is passionate about animals and wildlife. “I can say that I get it all from my father. He used to do it and so I am following his footsteps. That motivated me a lot and I came to love it,” the 27-year-old says. Having so many people appreciate her work became her biggest support because it encouraged her to never give up and continue showcasing her skills, be it birds or other animals. The love she has for birds and other animals grew further after learning a lot about them, their types, and way of life. All this broadened Niyonkuru’s vision and so she started challenging herself to take pictures of people and different events. Eventually, she started doing videos too. Niyonkuru shares some theories about birds, “Based on 2019 research, it was established that birds can eat up to 400 or 500 tons of insects in one year. I am still learning a lot about birds and other animals.” This year, Niyonkuru made a dozen copies of her own calendar. Both wall and desk calendars feature images of the birds that she captured, an idea that sprang to inform people about what she does, and showcase the beauty and variety of birds Rwanda has. Niyonkuru also has calendars made from her pictures. People loved the calendars and gave feedback, like including the birds’ names. They were sold at Ingabo Corner, a creative space in Kiyovu, Kigali. Only two copies remain and she plans to make some more. Asked what it means to be a nature photographer, Niyonkuru says it is not easy at all since many people do not understand the concept of buying pictures of animals. “I rarely get someone who wants a photoshoot of nature instead of people. That indicates that people do not understand the industry.” Niyonkuru is the last-born in her family and attended primary school in Gikondo. She went to APE Rugunga and King David for secondary school and later Mount Kenya University. Her dream is to grow in this industry and help other girls in this field. She shared her portfolio with Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to seek partnership and as she awaits a response, she is open to other companies interested in collaborations.
