Photo Souvenir. 2007. Director Paul Cohen and Martijn van Haalen. Cinematography by Paul Cohen.
This beautifully shot film profiles Nigerien (not to be confused with Nigerian) photographer Philippe Koudjina. His heyday was in the early 60s, when Niger became a sovereign nation. While some of his counterparts have received international acclaim, Koudjina, injured and without income, now struggles as does his country.
The film is not available online, but recently ran on Al Jazeera English as part of the Witness series. Excerpts and an interview with Cohen are featured in this preview.
“A car ran him over. I don’t think the car was insured. Yes. The driver was imprisoned for three months. That’s all. Philippe is on crutches now. Today he is sitting by the road.”
