Akinmade Akinleye

Akinmade Akinleye, known professionally as The Optimist, is a Nigerian-based fine art and portrait photographer whose body of work is celebrated for its deep exploration of emotions, beauty, and vibrant colors. With a distinguished portfolio that spans both local and international platforms, Akinmade has become a leading figure in African photography—known for his artistic flair in weddings, fashion, concerts, and corporate photography.

He has documented high-profile events for some of Africa’s biggest artists, including Davido, Mayorkun, and the late Big B, and captured the essence of global fashion runways at events such as Lagos Fashion Weekend (Nigeria), Volta Fashion Week (Ghana), and the Zikomo Awards (Zambia), among many others. In the corporate space, his lens has served major brands like Access Bank PLC, First Bank Nigeria, Smile Communications, and several other premium clients.

Key Achievements & Awards:

• Best Photographer of the Year – Young Achievers Africa Awards, Kigali, Rwanda (2025)
• One of the Most Inspirational Men in Africa – Zambia (2023)
• Best Star Photographer of the Year – Shining Stars Africa Awards, Johannesburg, South Africa (2024)
• Best Photographer of the Year – MVAA Awards, Nigeria (2024)
• Most Inspirational Man of the Year – MVAA Awards, Nigeria (2024)
• Young Achievers Award – Volta Fashion Week Awards and Honors, Ghana (2024)
• Best Photographer of the Year – Zikomo Africa Awards, South Africa (2024)

Empowerment & Training:

Akinmade is not only a creator but a mentor. He has empowered and trained over 100 creatives through masterclasses and workshops held across Nigeria and internationally. His sessions have equipped young and emerging photographers with the technical and business skills needed to thrive in a competitive creative industry.

Founder of “The Rebirth Africa”:

In 2025, Akinmade launched “The Rebirth”, a creative empowerment initiative aimed at reaching orphans and less privileged teenagers/youths across Africa. This program uses creative mastery as a tool to equip and mentor young people, helping to build a sustainable and inclusive creative ecosystem on the continent.

AI Photography Innovation:

Embracing the future, The Optimist has emerged as a leading voice in AI-integrated photography. He is widely recognized for pioneering the fusion of traditional photography with artificial intelligence, redefining what is possible behind the lens and earning admiration as a forward-thinking and innovative creative force.