Born in 1930 in Nigeria, J.D. 'Okhai Ojeikere began his career in photography in the 1950s, initially working for the Ministry of Information in Ibadan. He gained significant professional experience as a staff photographer for the Western Nigerian Television service before establishing his own studio practice.

Ojeikere is best known for his systematic photographic archive of Nigerian hair braiding, a project he began in 1968. Using a black-and-white medium, he captured the intricate geometric patterns and sculptural forms of hairstyles, treating them as both cultural artifacts and aesthetic objects. His work serves as a comprehensive visual record of Nigerian social history and fashion.

His legacy continues to be recognized in major institutional collections globally. Recent acquisitions by institutions such as the Tate highlight his enduring influence on contemporary photography and his role in preserving African cultural heritage through the lens.