Proof of Life—Ep5: Breast Will Be the Uplifting and Downfall of Mankind ft ISHOYOR
“Am I truly alive—or am I just clicking shutter buttons, drinking Hollandia, and pretending to have a life?”
In this episode of Proof of Life, we speak to Ishoyor—a man who has questioned what it means to truly live, made peace with unshared brilliance, and isn’t afraid to drop hot takes that might get him excommunicated from social media and men's WhatsApp groups.
Ishoyor is the kind of artist who makes you question what it means to see. Behind every lens he holds is a storm of light, texture, humor, chaos, and heartbreak. From dramatic portraiture and sensual boudoir to moody product shots and unpublished poetry collections, he is a visual storyteller who exists at the edge of stillness and soul.
What does Proof of Life mean to you, especially as someone constantly behind the camera and between the lines?
“Am I actually living?
As someone who's always tried to stay behind the lens and just “do the thing,” it's been an exciting life—living through other people. Sharing their joys and grief. Mirroring their lives. But lately, I’ve started asking myself: Is that really living?
Or am I just clicking shutter buttons, drinking Hollandia, and pretending to have a life?”
You’ve captured everything from weddings to boudoir. What makes a photo unforgettable to you—the photographer, not the client?
“Drama. I’m a sucker for dramatic images—lights, shapes, colors, poses… and occasionally, boobs (lol).
My favorite shots are the ones where the client gives me full creative control. I let the child in me play, and it always hits. Also: happy accidents and perfectly timed frames? Instant faves.”
Boudoir photography in Nigeria is still taboo to many. What drew you to that genre, and what have you unlearned about beauty and shame from it?
“As someone who struggled with body image, boudoir felt natural. It’s expression. It’s freeing.
Once you understand that every body is beautiful and can be portrayed as such, you unlock new levels of creativity.
Oh—and having to say, “No, we didn’t sleep together,” every time? That part gets tiring sha.”
Portraits, boudoir, and product photography all tell stories differently. Which feels more like you—and how do you shape your identity between them?
“I’m still figuring it out. At heart, I’m a portrait photographer. I approach everything—products, people, whatever—from that lens: What’s the personality here?
I'm dramatic by nature, so knowing when to dial it back is something I keep reminding myself. But whether loud or quiet, my work is a reflection of how I understand what’s in front of me.”
You are the writer of the best unpublished book—Jack Napier. What story were you trying to tell, and what has kept it in the shadows?
“I Am Jack Napier is about healing and self-acceptance. I wrote it when I was clawing my way out of depression and heartbreak.
But unlike my previous books—which were cries of pain—I don’t feel the need to share this one with everyone. The journey is mine.
Every now and then, I share parts of it with people who need it. Especially “The Conversation” and “Red Cups”—masterful writing, if I do say so myself.”
What’s the hardest part about being an artist in Nigeria, and what’s the most unexpectedly beautiful part?
“Hardest part? Money. The Naira is nonsense and gear is expensive.
Most beautiful? Lawlessness. Sometimes I just “mad man” my way into locations and do what needs to be done.
It’s a love-hate relationship—but who doesn’t have one with this country?”
What is it about online shopping that excites you so much—what’s the best and worst thing you’ve ever bought?
“Future Jumia Ambassador here—talk to me about convenience.
No need to pay transport to “check something.” Just click and it comes. If I don’t have to stand up, I’m not standing up.
Worst buy: a MIDI keyboard with lag.
Best buy: Yamaha PSR373 Piano (I haven’t gotten it yet, but I have faith. If you’d like to join your faith with mine, GoFundMe is open!)”
There’s often tension around effeminate men in Nigerian society. What are your honest thoughts on how they’re perceived, treated, and misunderstood?
“Omo, they’re men, aren’t they?
People are too quick to assume—gay? Bobrisky without money? Just in touch with their feminine side?
Whatever it is, let them be. People lump everything under “homosexual” and act like it’s their personal assignment.
Me, I believe: treat people like human beings—unless they move mad. Then move mad back.”
If you could reframe one narrative about masculinity in Nigeria through your art, what would it be?
“Honestly? I wouldn’t even try.
As individuals, people can be smart. But as a group? Collective stupidity is real.
Even if I knew it would work, I probably still wouldn’t bother. Let people believe what they want. I wish them well.”
Finally, drop one random thought that will shake tables.
Let me double down on this:
Nyash is overrated.
Breast will be the uplifting and downfall of mankind.
4 Random Thoughts & No Business Idea
A quote from Niggalations 4:21
If you want to craze, check the global poverty line
If someone replies in 4 days, take 1 week to respond – balance the equation
Some meetings should be an email
What am I watching?
You just need to have audacity in this life, and you will do great, and also maybe stupid things.
This series is quite an interesting watch – especially for people looking to build a community – not a cult o!
It is safe to say that this is a good place to peace out for the week.
Till next week! Have Fun.