Looking at the numerous movie achievements that have placed Nigerian films on the global map, the year 2024 has been a remarkable one for Nollywood. Central to this success are the cinematographers who breathe life into stories through their lenses. Nollywood’s industry top 7 highest grossing cinematographers contributed to an impressive N3.38 billion in box office earnings in 2024, establishing their role as key contributors to the industry’s commercial success.
These cinematographers are crucial players in Nollywood’s growing value chain, demonstrating how high quality cinematography can elevate a film’s appeal and financial performance. While actors and directors often bask in the limelight, the artistry of cinematographers remains the cornerstone of a film’s visual and emotional appeal. Their ability to tell compelling stories through lenses, lighting, and camera movement directly didn’t just capture movies but they captured hearts.
With Hollywood controlling 54% of the Nigerian box office, these cinematographers are not just competing but they bring dazzling scenes to life, leaving audiences spellbound and raising Nollywood’s reputation. Let’s explore the top Seven (7) highest-grossing cinematographers and their contributions in Nollywood’s box office triumphs in 2024.
John Njaga Demps: The Hollywood-Nollywood Bridge
John Demps, a veteran cinematographer with a career spanning decade, has masterfully combined Hollywood flair with Nollywood’s dynamic storytelling. With “Everybody Loves Jenifa” grossing N1.125 billion, Demps isn’t just a cinematographer—he’s a visual alchemist. His collaboration with director Funke Akindele and Tunde Olaoye delivered a visually stunning movie that emotionally connects with viewers.
His skillful use of lighting, framing, and motion brought out the heart and comedy of this sequel, leading to its record-setting box office performance. From shooting music videos for Tupac and Snoop Dogg to crafting Nollywood blockbusters, his journey is a testament to storytelling without borders.
His expertise is evident in some of Nollywood’s most successful films, including: Living in Bondage, Breaking Free, The Trade, and Omo Ghetto: The Saga. His transition to Nollywood showcases his adaptability and commitment to crafting compelling visual narratives, seamlessly blending technical expertise with cultural storytelling.
Emmanuel Igbekele: The Artistic Innovator
Grossing N790 million through films like “Queen Lateefah”, “Ajosepo” and Farmer’s Bride, Igbekele turns each frame into a canvas, blending technical precision with emotional depth.
A graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, Igbekele’s work spans feature films, documentaries, and commercials, cementing his place as a master of cinematic visuals and a skilled colorist.
His other works includes hits like Love in a Pandemic, Atunwa, Roles Reversed, Soole, Hide ‘n’ Seek, About a Boy, Introducing the Kujus, Breaded Life, and Ponzi. As a skilled colorist, Emmanuel has worked across feature films, short films, documentaries, commercials, and TV shows, refining visuals that captivate audiences worldwide.
Idowu Adedapo: The Netflix Influencer
With an impressive box office gross of N483 million from “Beast of Two Worlds: Ajakaju” and “Alakada Bad and Boujee” which earned him the third spot among the highest grossing cinematographers, Adedapo’s craft is shaping the narrative of modern Nigerian cinema.
With extensive experience in television and film, Adedapo has carved a niche as one of Nollywood’s most versatile and accomplished cinematographers with his dynamic way of adding dept and engagement to filmmaking, which has played a key role in the commercial success of his works. His Netflix hits include Blood Sisters and Oloture.
Sanjo Adegoke: The Multimedia Maverick
Sanjo Adegoke’s innovative approach to cinematography, editing and VFX has made him a force to reckon with in Nollywood, ranking him fourth on the list. His work on “Lakatabu” and directed by Odunlade Adekola’s resulted in an impressive ₦202 million gross.
His other works includes: Alaye (2024), Ofeefe (Mirage) (2019), and Cooked Up Love (2018), Adegoke has earned a reputation as a multimedia juggernaut in the industry.
Emmanuel Oputa
Emmanuel Oputa’s cinematographic expertise shone in the film “The Waiter”, produced by AY Makun, earning him the fifth position and grossed ₦189 million, His skillful camera work and composition were key elements in the film’s box office hits in 2024.
Oputa Emmanuel is a rising Nigerian filmmaker and cinematographer who honed his craft at the National Film Institute of Nigeria, where he graduated as the Best Practical Student in Cinematography in 2018. Since then, he has built an impressive career as a seasoned cinematographer and director of photography, contributing to film, television dramas, documentaries, and TV shows. His notable works include Assail (2015), In the Grey, Tails of Treachery (2016), and The Eulogy, which won Outstanding Cinematography and Best Film at the NAFFIS Awards in 2018.
Ifeme Chidiebere Samuel (FKA Ifeme C.S.)
Ifeme CS’s contributions to “All’s Fair in Love” and “Move Like a Boss” secured him the sixth spot among highest grossing cinematographers, collectively grossing ₦158 million. From directing music videos for prominent artists to crafting visuals for blockbusters, Ifeme continues to break Nollywood’s aesthetic boundaries.
Ifeme is a multifaceted Nigerian filmmaker known for his work as a director, producer, cinematographer, and writer. Starting his creative journey in photography, he transitioned into directing music videos for prominent artists. such as Sarz, DJ Neptune, and TOBi, and filmmaking with a keen eye for detail
Lance Gewer
Lance Gewer is the international talent behind the N157 million “Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti” a biographical film by Bolanle Austen-Peters, earned him the highest grossing cinematographer seventh position in 2024.
Gewer, known for his Oscar-winning work on Tsotsi, has an impressive résumé that includes films like Otelo Burning and Beat the Drum. He has also directed, produced, and lectured extensively while continuing to leave his mark on the film industry worldwide. His contributions to Nollywood exemplify the blending of international and local cinematic excellence.
Spotlight on Kennysoft Film Academy: Join the Academy That Shapes Future Cinematographers!
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The Role of Cinematographers in Nollywood’s Growth
Cinematographers are the architects of a film’s visual identity. Their technical expertise and creative vision shape the way stories are told, influencing audience perception and engagement. In 2024, Nollywood’s cinematographers:
- Adopted Advanced Technology: The use of drones, high-definition cameras, and cutting-edge editing software brought a polished, international feel to Nigerian films.
- Enhanced Cultural Storytelling: Cinematographers tapped into the vibrant aesthetics of Nigerian culture, using colors, textures, and traditional motifs to connect with audiences.
- Built Emotional Connections: Through lighting and camera techniques, these professionals created moods that drew audiences deeper into the narrative.
- Collaboration: Working closely with the filmmaking team to bring their vision to life.
Conclusion
With Nollywood’s highest grossing cinematographers of 2024, they have demonstrated that storytelling is as much about how a story is shown as it is about what is told. The works of John Njaga Demps, Emmanuel Igbekele, and their peers are a testament to the power of visual storytelling making Nigerian films more competitive internationally.
Their work exemplifies the power of visuals in conveying emotion, culture, and humanity. Aspiring cinematographers can learn from their journey, and audiences can continue to enjoy the magic they create on screen.
Remember, by investing in the training and resources for cinematographers, Nollywood can sustain its upward trajectory, ensuring that its films continue to compete on the global stage.
Source: https://www.instagram.com/p/DE0LNDVO14d/
