Ahmed Kayiwa
What’s the nature of your business?
We do photography and that involves family portraits, weddings and other ceremonies like private parties. We also do billboard photos, videography and hire out plasma screens as well.
When did you start Satellite Studios?
I started it about six years ago.
Where did you get the start-up capital?
I worked with New Vision as a photojournalist and I used my savings to start my own business.
How much did you invest in this business and how much is it worth?
About Shs5m, but it’s now worth about Shs60m.
Where is Satellite Studios located?
On Martin Road, Plot number 49/51 near the Crane Access ATM.
What events have you worked at so far and who are some of your biggest clients?
I’ve been the official photographer for the Wyclef Jean, Akon and Kirk Franklin concerts and King Oyo’s 18th birthday ceremony. I’m the official photographer for Multichoice Uganda, Unilever, Ange Noir discotheque and Scanad.
I’ve also done both videography and photography for several artistes like Jose Chameleone, Haruna Mubiru and Mesach Ssemakula among others.
What are some of the challenges you are facing in this kind of business?
Most of the time, clients demand super quality work yet the machines to do that work are so expensive. Competition is also so high in this kind of business. You always have to be on the lookout for events and ceremonies.
How much do you charge?
It depends on what the clients want. If it’s photos we look at how many photos one wants and their sizes. If it’s videography, we look at how long the ceremony is going to take.
How have you benefited from this business?
For starters, this business has helped me get connections. I’ve rubbed shoulders with people I wouldn’t have gotten a chance to associate with. I’m able to look after my wife and daughter thanks to this business. I built my house and I’m soon finishing my rentals thanks to the same business. I have also acquired five plots of land from Jomayi Estates.
