Ngurario Photographer

In Kenya, traditional weddings are a big part of our culture. For the Kikuyu community, the Ngurario ceremony is a very important event. It is the final step in a traditional Kikuyu wedding and shows that the couple is now officially married. To keep these memories alive, you need more than just photos—you need someone who understands the culture and knows how to tell a story through pictures. That’s where Joe Photography comes in. We are your trusted Ngurario photographer in Kenya.

This ceremony has deep meaning and includes special traditions like gutinia kiande (cutting the shoulder), slaughtering animals, sharing traditional drinks, and joining two families together.

Ngurario Photography in Solai Nakuru

What Is the Ngurario Ceremony?

Ngurario is the last and most important part of a Kikuyu traditional wedding. It usually happens after several other ceremonies like dowry talks and family visits. It is often held at the bride’s home and includes:

• Slaughtering a goat and two sheep to show respect, sacrifice, and blessings.
• The gutinia kiande ceremony, where a piece of goat’s shoulder is cut and given to elders. This shows that the bride is accepted into the groom’s family.
• Drinking muratina, a traditional Kikuyu drink.
• Music, dancing, and celebrations with both families.
• Giving gifts and introducing the bride and groom to the whole family.

This ceremony is not just about fun—it brings two families together and honors Kikuyu traditions.

Why You Need a Ngurario Photographer

A professional Ngurario photographer in Kenya helps keep these moments alive for many years. These events are full of emotions, prayers, and cultural traditions that should be captured with love and respect.

At Joe Photography, we know how important your big day is. We take photos that tell your story. We understand the Kikuyu traditions and know when to capture those powerful moments—like the gutinia kiande, the sharing of muratina, and the joyful dances.

What we offer:

• Full Coverage: From the start of the day to the final prayers.
• Clear, Quality Photos: Using top cameras and equipment.
• Cultural Understanding: We don’t just take pictures—we tell your story.
• Videos and Drones: We can also film your wedding and even use drones for wide shots.

Gutinia Kiande: A Special Moment

Gutinia kiande means “cutting the shoulder.” This is a big part of the Ngurario ceremony. A respected elder from the groom’s side cuts the goat’s shoulder and gives it to other elders. This shows that the bride has been accepted and the couple is now fully married.

As photographers, we know this is a key moment. We make sure to capture it from the best angles without interrupting the ceremony. This moment is full of meaning and must be saved with care.

Muratina: The Traditional Brew

Muratina is a drink made from the fruit of the sausage tree (“muratina”), mixed with honey, sugarcane juice, millet, and water. It is left to ferment for a few days and becomes a light traditional beer. This drink is shared with elders and guests during the Ngurario ceremony.

In Kikuyu culture, muratina represents joy, blessing, and the connection of two families. Drinking muratina together shows unity and the welcoming of the bride into the groom’s home. During the ceremony, guests toast, laugh, and share good moments over this special drink. It’s our job to capture those happy faces and warm moments.

The Boy with the Bag (Kiondo)

In some Ngurario ceremonies, a young boy carries a traditional basket called a kiondo. This boy often walks ahead of the groom’s group. He represents the hope that the new couple will have children. The kiondo usually contains gifts or traditional items.

This part of the ceremony is small but powerful. As photographers, we love capturing the innocence and joy in this child’s face. It’s a moment that reminds everyone of the future and the blessings expected in the marriage.

Why Choose Joe Photography?

Joe Photography is based in Nakuru but works across Kenya. We have been part of many traditional weddings and understand how to respectfully capture these sacred moments.

Why people trust us:

• We know Kikuyu wedding steps and rituals.
• We are respectful and careful with traditions.
• We are friendly, professional, and passionate.
• We offer good prices and flexible packages.
• We deliver edited photos quickly.

Want to see our work? Visit our Instagram at @JoePhotography&safaris or search for Ngurario photographer Instagram.

What to Cover in a Ngurario Ceremony as a Photographer

A Ngurario ceremony is not just any event—it is the heart of a Kikuyu traditional wedding. As a photographer, you’re not only taking photos, you’re helping a family keep their culture and memories alive. Here’s a breakdown of the key parts you should cover during this important day:

1. Venue and Preparations

Start by capturing the setup before guests arrive. Photograph the tents, decorations, cooking area, traditional tools, and food preparation. These early moments show the hard work behind the scenes and set the tone for the album.

Don’t forget the bride and groom getting ready—dressing in traditional outfits, having quiet moments with family, and sharing laughs. These portraits are emotional and powerful.

2. Arrival of Families and Guests

When the groom’s family arrives at the bride’s home, it marks the beginning of the ceremony. Capture the greetings, the emotions, and the meeting of the two families. Look out for smiles, handshakes, hugs, and warm welcomes. These moments are full of energy and meaning.

3. Slaughtering the Goat and Sheep

This is a key part of the ceremony that symbolizes sacrifice and blessings. Take respectful photos of the preparation, the elders performing the act, and how the families react. Avoid graphic images—focus more on the ritual, the hands, the tools, and the people involved.

4. Gutinia Kiande (Cutting the Shoulder)

This is the heart of the ceremony. A respected elder cuts a piece of the goat’s shoulder and gives it to other elders. It’s a sign that the bride has been accepted into the groom’s family.

As a photographer, capture:

• The elder doing the cutting.
• The expressions of the bride and groom.
• The serious faces of the elders and the pride in their eyes.

Make sure you don’t miss this—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

5. Muratina (Traditional Drink)

Muratina is a fermented traditional brew made from the muratina fruit, sugarcane (or honey), millet, and water. It stands for unity, celebration, and sharing.

Take photos of:

• The drink being served in calabashes or cups.
• Elders sharing toasts.
• Guests enjoying the drink.
• Smiles and laughter around the drink table.

These are warm, joyful moments that truly reflect the spirit of Ngurario.

6. The Boy with the Kiondo (Basket)

A small boy sometimes appears with a traditional basket called a kiondo, often carrying gifts or items for the bride. This boy represents the future children of the couple.

Capture:

• The boy walking through the crowd.
• His traditional outfit.
• Reactions from guests—especially older family members.

It’s a sweet, symbolic moment that adds color and meaning to the album.

7. Blessings and Gift Giving

Elders from both families give their blessings to the couple. Gifts are exchanged, and sometimes traditional prayers or speeches are made.

Photograph:

• The hands giving and receiving gifts.
• The couple kneeling or bowing as they receive blessings.
• The smiles, tears, and emotion in the faces of family members.

These moments carry a lot of emotional weight.

8. Dancing, Singing, and Music

The mood often shifts into celebration with traditional music and dance. This is your time to get vibrant, energetic shots.

Cover:

• The crowd dancing.
• The bride and groom celebrating together.
• Drummers, singers, and traditional instruments.

Use wide shots for the full scene and close-ups for facial expressions and footwork.

9. Bride and Groom Portraits

After the rituals and celebration, take time for a quiet session with the bride and groom. Use a natural setting or a decorated corner.

Include:

• Romantic couple poses.
• Candid shots of them smiling, walking, or laughing.
• Poses with parents and key family members.

These are the timeless shots that will hang in their home for years to come.

10. Detail Shots and Candid Moments

Don’t forget the small details:

• Beads, lesos, and headpieces.
• Traditional stools, walking sticks, calabashes.
• Guests laughing, hugging, or children playing.
• Food being served.

These moments tell the full story and add layers to your visual coverage.

11. Optional: Drone and Video Coverage

If you offer video or drone services, plan to capture:

• Aerial shots of the venue.
• The processions and crowd.
• Full coverage of gutinia kiande and celebrations.

These extra features take the storytelling to the next level and make your work stand out.

We Travel All Over Kenya

Whether your Ngurario is in Solai, Nakuru, Kiambu, Murang’a, or even outside Kenya, Joe Photography is ready to come. We cover:

• Pre-wedding photoshoots
• Ngurario ceremonies
• Church weddings
• Ruracio events
• Engagement parties

We don’t just take photos—we help you keep your culture alive.

Call Joe Photography

Ready to book your Ngurario photographer?

📞 Call/WhatsApp: 0717563531
📷 Instagram: @JoePhotography
🏠 Based in Nakuru, we serve all of Kenya

Joe Photography – Capturing Traditions, Telling Stories

FAQ on Ngurario Photography Services

Also Read:

• Ruracio Meaning