Feature/OPED
How Smartphones Changed Photography
Gone are the days of having to wait until rolls of film are developed into negatives and then printed into photographs. Now, everything can be taken and shared in the same moment.
The vast improvements made to mobile phone camera technology and the immediate feedback culture that social apps like Instagram propagate make it more likely that users will be encouraged to take and share their photographs, regardless of if it is their profession or not.
According to research, cameras have seen a dramatic decline in sales, whilst the number of pictures taken has boomed with an estimated 1 trillion photos snapped in 2017. Smartphones are now the most popular device for taking photographs since the release of the first camera phone in 2000, and 92% of users polled said that the camera was the most used feature on their phone.
A Brief History of Photography
In 1835, William Henry Talbot developed the first process for creating reproducible photographs as we know them today. This process involves taking a negative image on special paper and producing multiple copies of a positive image through a process known as contact printing. Since then, this process was refined and underwent several major developments leading up to the invention of the digital image.
It was not until 1900 that the first camera became available for purchase by the general public. Known as the Kodak Brownie, the camera was limited to black and white prints and was affordable to middle-class families.
Although colour photographs were available much early to specialized photographers, it was 1907 before the first colour photograph camera became available to the general public.
In 1948, Edwin Land created the Polaroid camera. This was the first camera to ever spit out instantly available photos. Aside from the Polaroid, the only other option for regular families was a camera that used film and the pictures had to be developed by a professional.
Technology for the modern digital camera actually began to emerge as early as 1969, but it used a cassette tape rather than a memory card. However, the first digital camera to be sold to consumers came about in 1990. It cost a pretty penny at $600 and was not widely used due to the cost. It was not until 2004 that digital cameras became more popular than cameras that use film.
More often than not, we now use cell phones to capture our precious moments in life. How has this recent development changed photography? You may be surprised by some of the answers.
Mounds of Pictures
In the time before digital cameras, there was not a habit of taking and retaking pictures to get the perfect pose. Because you did not know what the picture looked like, it was far more likely for you to snap one or two shots and call it a day. The photos were not always perfect, but they were much more candid.
Thanks to our smartphones, we take the same picture thousands of times to get the perfect pose. People now have unlimited storage, unlike film cameras where only a certain number of photos could be snapped before the roll of film was done.
Selfies
Formerly known as the “Self-portrait” the first selfie was technically taken by a landmark photographer in 1839. He probably did not call it a selfie, though, and he definitely did not post it to his story. The modern version of the selfie came about in 2002 with a group of Australians who dedicated a website to the concept. This, of course, was built using digital cameras.
Now, even grandmothers of millennials have begun to take selfies. It is a cultural phenomenon that a lot of people argue represents an obsession with ourselves. Either way, the selfie is not likely to go away any time soon.
Instant Gratification
One of the biggest changes that have been brought about by the invention of the smartphone, is the ability to instantly gain access to a picture every single time. Of course, there was a Polaroid camera for many years, but Polaroid film was not known for its high-quality pictures. For the most part, people had to wait to view and share the pictures that they had taken. This is because they had to take the film to a store to be developed.
Another major development in photography since the invention of the smartphone is the ability to share these photos with a large crowd of people instantly. Years ago, people had photo books where they would store their precious memories. These books were only brought out for special occasions and usually were not shared with random acquaintances. Now, we share our photos with anyone who gives them alike.
Final thought
Although global smartphone adoption is still just below 30 per cent, smartphone photography is growing in popularity, disrupting traditional camera use. NPD made this trend clear in its Imaging Confluence Study, which found that smartphones accounted for 27 per cent of photos shot this year.
The professional photography world has been mildly inconvenienced by smartphones. Wedding photographers complain about the guests who ruin professional photos with their amateur cell phone shots. Filters may cause some families to think their photos look professional. Also, cell phone cameras are becoming increasingly powerful.
Further, apps like Adobe lightroom have created the ability to significantly enhance the visual appeal of a cell phone photo at no extra cost. Still, most families will want to hire a professional to update photos every now and again. The big milestones like newborn photos and weddings will also be a draw for paying money for a photographer.
Overall, professional photographers still have the upper hand over the cell phone mom taking amateur shots in the park. Although, that could change in the future and professional photographers are going to have to adapt to keep up with the demand of ever-evolving technology.
Kenneth Horsfall is the creative director and founder of K.S. Kennysoft Studios Production Ltd fondly called Kennysoft STUDIOs. Kennysoft STUDIOs is a Nigerian Video and Animation Production Studio. He is also the founder and lead instructor at Kennysoft Film Academy and can be reached via [email protected]
Feature/OPED
The Future of Payments: Key Trends to Watch in 2025
By Luke Kyohere
The global payments landscape is undergoing a rapid transformation. New technologies coupled with the rising demand for seamless, secure, and efficient transactions has spurred on an exciting new era of innovation and growth. With 2025 fast approaching, here are important trends that will shape the future of payments:
1. The rise of real-time payments
Until recently, real-time payments have been used in Africa for cross-border mobile money payments, but less so for traditional payments. We are seeing companies like Mastercard investing in this area, as well as central banks in Africa putting focus on this.
2. Cashless payments will increase
In 2025, we will see the continued acceleration of cashless payments across Africa. B2B payments in particular will also increase. Digital payments began between individuals but are now becoming commonplace for larger corporate transactions.
3. Digital currency will hit mainstream
In the cryptocurrency space, we will see an increase in the use of stablecoins like United States Digital Currency (USDC) and Tether (USDT) which are linked to US dollars. These will come to replace traditional cryptocurrencies as their price point is more stable. This year, many countries will begin preparing for Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), government-backed digital currencies which use blockchain.
The increased uptake of digital currencies reflects the maturity of distributed ledger technology and improved API availability.
4. Increased government oversight
As adoption of digital currencies will increase, governments will also put more focus into monitoring these flows. In particular, this will centre on companies and banks rather than individuals. The goal of this will be to control and occasionally curb runaway foreign exchange (FX) rates.
5. Business leaders buy into AI technology
In 2025, we will see many business leaders buying into AI through respected providers relying on well-researched platforms and huge data sets. Most companies don’t have the budget to invest in their own research and development in AI, so many are now opting to ‘buy’ into the technology rather than ‘build’ it themselves. Moreover, many businesses are concerned about the risks associated with data ownership and accuracy so buying software is another way to avoid this risk.
6. Continued AI Adoption in Payments
In payments, the proliferation of AI will continue to improve user experience and increase security. To detect fraud, AI is used to track patterns and payment flows in real-time. If unusual activity is detected, the technology can be used to flag or even block payments which may be fraudulent.
When it comes to user experience, we will also see AI being used to improve the interface design of payment platforms. The technology will also increasingly be used for translation for international payment platforms.
7. Rise of Super Apps
To get more from their platforms, mobile network operators are building comprehensive service platforms, integrating multiple payment experiences into a single app. This reflects the shift of many users moving from text-based services to mobile apps. Rather than offering a single service, super apps are packing many other services into a single app. For example, apps which may have previously been used primarily for lending, now have options for saving and paying bills.
8. Business strategy shift
Recent major technological changes will force business leaders to focus on much shorter prediction and reaction cycles. Because the rate of change has been unprecedented in the past year, this will force decision-makers to adapt quickly, be decisive and nimble.
As the payments space evolves, businesses, banks, and governments must continually embrace innovation, collaboration, and prioritise customer needs. These efforts build a more inclusive, secure, and efficient payment system that supports local to global economic growth – enabling true financial inclusion across borders.
Luke Kyohere is the Group Chief Product and Innovation Officer at Onafriq
Feature/OPED
Ghana’s Democratic Triumph: A Call to Action for Nigeria’s 2027 Elections
In a heartfelt statement released today, the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has extended its warmest congratulations to Ghana’s President-Elect, emphasizing the importance of learning from Ghana’s recent electoral success as Nigeria gears up for its 2027 general elections.
In a statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade James Ezema, the CNPP highlighted the need for Nigeria to reclaim its status as a leader in democratic governance in Africa.
“The recent victory of Ghana’s President-Elect is a testament to the maturity and resilience of Ghana’s democracy,” the CNPP stated. “As we celebrate this achievement, we must reflect on the lessons that Nigeria can learn from our West African neighbour.”
The CNPP’s message underscored the significance of free, fair, and credible elections, a standard that Ghana has set and one that Nigeria has previously achieved under former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015. “It is high time for Nigeria to reclaim its position as a beacon of democracy in Africa,” the CNPP asserted, calling for a renewed commitment to the electoral process.
Central to CNPP’s message is the insistence that “the will of the people must be supreme in Nigeria’s electoral processes.” The umbrella body of all registered political parties and political associations in Nigeria CNPP emphasized the necessity of an electoral system that genuinely reflects the wishes of the Nigerian populace. “We must strive to create an environment where elections are free from manipulation, violence, and intimidation,” the CNPP urged, calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take decisive action to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
The CNPP also expressed concern over premature declarations regarding the 2027 elections, stating, “It is disheartening to note that some individuals are already announcing that there is no vacancy in Aso Rock in 2027. This kind of statement not only undermines the democratic principles that our nation holds dear but also distracts from the pressing need for the current administration to earn the trust of the electorate.”
The CNPP viewed the upcoming elections as a pivotal moment for Nigeria. “The 2027 general elections present a unique opportunity for Nigeria to reclaim its position as a leader in democratic governance in Africa,” it remarked. The body called on all stakeholders — including the executive, legislature, judiciary, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and civil society organisations — to collaborate in ensuring that elections are transparent, credible, and reflective of the will of the Nigerian people.
As the most populous African country prepares for the 2027 elections, the CNPP urged all Nigerians to remain vigilant and committed to democratic principles. “We must work together to ensure that our elections are free from violence, intimidation, and manipulation,” the statement stated, reaffirming the CNPP’s commitment to promoting a peaceful and credible electoral process.
In conclusion, the CNPP congratulated the President-Elect of Ghana and the Ghanaian people on their remarkable achievements.
“We look forward to learning from their experience and working together to strengthen democracy in our region,” the CNPP concluded.
Feature/OPED
The Need to Promote Equality, Equity and Fairness in Nigeria’s Proposed Tax Reforms
By Kenechukwu Aguolu
The proposed tax reform, involving four tax bills introduced by the Federal Government, has received significant criticism. Notably, it was rejected by the Governors’ Forum but was still forwarded to the National Assembly. Unlike the various bold economic decisions made by this government, concessions will likely need to be made on these tax reforms, which involve legislative amendments and therefore cannot be imposed by the executive. This article highlights the purposes of taxation, the qualities of a good tax system, and some of the implications of the proposed tax reforms.
One of the major purposes of taxation is to generate revenue for the government to finance its activities. A good tax system should raise sufficient revenue for the government to fund its operations, and support economic and infrastructural development. For any country to achieve meaningful progress, its tax-to-GDP ratio should be at least 15%. Currently, Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio is less than 11%. The proposed tax reforms aim to increase this ratio to 18% within the next three years.
A good tax system should also promote income redistribution and equality by implementing progressive tax policies. In line with this, the proposed tax reforms favour low-income earners. For example, individuals earning less than one million naira annually are exempted from personal income tax. Additionally, essential goods and services such as food, accommodation, and transportation, which constitute a significant portion of household consumption for low- and middle-income groups, are to be exempted from VAT.
In addition to equality, a good tax system should ensure equity and fairness, a key area of contention surrounding the proposed reforms. If implemented, the amendments to the Value Added Tax could lead to a significant reduction in the federal allocation for some states; impairing their ability to finance government operations and development projects. The VAT amendments should be holistically revisited to promote fairness and national unity.
The establishment of a single agency to collect government taxes, the Nigeria Revenue Service, could reduce loopholes that have previously resulted in revenue losses, provided proper controls are put in place. It is logically easier to monitor revenue collection by one agency than by multiple agencies. However, this is not a magical solution. With automation, revenue collection can be seamless whether it is managed by one agency or several, as long as monitoring and accountability measures are implemented effectively.
The proposed tax reforms by the Federal Government are well-intentioned. However, all concerns raised by Nigerians should be looked into, and concessions should be made where necessary. Policies are more effective when they are adapted to suit the unique characteristics of a nation, rather than adopted wholesale. A good tax system should aim to raise sufficient revenue, ensure equitable income distribution, and promote equality, equity, and fairness.
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