Every Story Begins with Listening

Medicine taught me to slow down and truly listen — photography allows me to transform what I hear and feel into images you can hold onto forever.

Man in gray suit standing next to a presentation board displaying a colorful photo at a formal event.

Both medicine and photography are about human connection


Both medicine and photography are rooted in human connection.


As a physician, I’ve learned the importance of making people feel seen, heard, and comfortable during important moments in their lives. Photography became an extension of that for me.


My approach blends observation, patience, and creativity to create images that feel natural and personal rather than forced or overly posed. More than anything, I want people to walk away feeling comfortable, confident, and genuinely represented in their photographs.


Co-founder and lead photographer Dr. Oluwatoba Olayinka of Photos By Toba, posing confidently in studio.

Why Photography?


Because years from now, I want your photos to bring you back to a specific feeling, a season of life, the people around you, and the moments you may have forgotten with time.


The photos we value most are rarely perfect. They matter because they remind us who we were, what life felt like, and the memories we never want to lose.

That’s when photography becomes more than just an image.

Two smiling friends pose together in front of an orange wall, one making a peace sign gesture.

For me, photography became the perfect balance of creativity and connection.


Every session is approached with intention because no two stories, personalities, or moments are the same. My goal is to create an experience where people feel comfortable enough to simply be themselves while we document a meaningful season of their lives.

Co-founder and lead photographer Oluwatoba Olayinka of Photos By Toba, posing confidently in The Studio Chicago.

What makes a story memorable

isn’t only what we see on the surface.

It’s the details, the emotions, the connections, and the moments in between.

A nervous smile turning into laughter. A couple stepping into a new chapter. An entrepreneur finally feeling confident enough to be the face of their brand.

No two people are the same, so no two sessions should feel the same either. I take time to understand your personality, style, and story to create a session that feels relaxed, personal, and natural to you.

The result is imagery that feels honest to the moment and meaningful

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What I Love to Capture

  • The way your hands rest gently on someone you love. Quiet laughter. The pause before something meaningful is said.
  • The confidence people settle into halfway through a session.
  • Connections between people — family, friends, partners — that speak louder than words.
  • Branding moments that reflect not just what you do, but the person behind the work.

the details, the emotions, and the connections

Fun Facts About Me

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Co-founder and lead photographer Oluwatoba Olayinka of Photos By Toba, having a sip of coffee at RH Chicago.

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But first, 


Coffee.


I'm an early riser, up at 4:30 am every morning like clockwork. But here's the catch: nothing gets this show on the road until I've had my first cup of coffee.

That first sip is my secret to kickstarting the day with energy and enthusiasm!

A stylish man in a tan blazer and sunglasses poses thoughtfully on a wooden bench in an outdoor setting.

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I'm Fluent in two languages (and sarcasm isn't one of them)


I grew up immersed in both English and the rich Yoruba language that's native to my Nigerian family's roots. It was an invaluable gift that's continued shaping my identity and experiences to this day.


Yoruba allows me to connect with my culture, community, and heritage on a deep level that just wouldn't be possible through English alone. Switching between the two languages feels totally natural - they're equal partners in my mind. I can be in the middle of an English conversation and then seamlessly flow into some Yoruba banter without skipping a beat.


Co-founder and lead photographer Oluwatoba Olayinka of Photos By Toba, posing with his triplet siblings during Christmas

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Three's Company


I can only imagine the looks on your parents' faces when not two, but three beautiful babies arrived. I was the first to make my grand entrance, followed shortly after by my sister. But my brother decided to be fashionably late to the party!


My parents were prepared for twins, but clearly we had other plans.

Our unique triplet bond is one I wouldn't trade for the world - even if it did prematurely give our parents a few extra gray hairs.

Photography studio setup with lighting equipment and ladder for professional photo shoot.

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It's Not Hoarding,


If It's Gear.


As a photographer, I totally get the struggle of trying to justify the ever-growing collection of cameras, lenses, tripods, and accessories. But hey, every piece of equipment serves a purpose and expands my creative capabilities. You can never have too many tools of the trade, right? My space may be getting a bit cramped, but at least I'm prepared for any photographic scenario that comes my way!

Co-founder and lead photographer Oluwatoba Olayinka of Photos By Toba, painting artwork to promote mental health awarene

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Drawing is my communication tool


For me, drawing isn't just a creative outlet - it's a powerful communication tool. Whenever I'm trying to explain a complex idea or abstract concept, I almost always find myself reaching for a pen and paper to sketch it out visually.

 There's just something about transforming topics into simple diagrams, process drawings, or creative metaphorical imagery that makes lightbulbs go off in a way wordy explanations can't quite achieve.

My meeting notes are always filled with little doodles and impromptu visuals. 

Co-founder and lead photographer Oluwatoba Olayinka of Photos By Toba, working behind the scenes of a Personal Branding

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I love getting hands-on and building stuff from scratch. 


I've always had a passion for building things. Back in middle school, I once attempted to construct an electrical stabilizer. Let's just say, there was a slight mishap, and the house may have experienced a small explosion.

Needless to say, it's a day my dad would rather forget, so let's not bring it up with him!

Person in black shirt holding professional camera equipment in monochrome studio setting.

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I’m a photographer and a resident physician — and proud of being both!


When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll find me at the hospital, caring for patients and growing every day in my residency journey. Medicine challenges me, photography restores me — and together, they shape the way I see people and tell their stories.



Professional photographer reviewing camera equipment and laptop while working in a studio setting.

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📸 Edits. 📚 Books. ⚽ Barça

(and always Messi)

That’s my off-duty routine


At home, you’ll usually catch me editing your photos, getting lost in a great book, or cheering a little too loudly for my favorite soccer team (Barcelona & whichever team Messi is on, if I’m to be totally honest).

My Promise to You


When you work with me, you’ll get more than photos. You’ll get care, direction, and respect. A safe space where you can be yourself, feel held, and trust that your story will be told with integrity and warmth.