PHOENIX PHOTOGRAPHY

I have never been a morning person but that day I woke up very early. The reason? Well, the night before, I was surfing the internet lately and found some amazing street photographs by some great photo-artists. I was deeply impressed and inspired. I wanted to work like them. That hunger of doing well woke me up and I was off to a morning walk with my camera as companion.

THE LOVE FOR STREET PHOTOGRAPHY: I have tried many genres but never found anything so flavourful and vibrant like street photography. Everytime there is something or the other happening around the streets. As a photographer I am in a constant search of action. Sometimes I get a good shot, sometimes I don’t, but that doesn’t stop me from trying. Patience, observation and speed are the keys to capture fine moments while doing street photography, that’s what I have learnt from the masters of this genre. But that day I decided to do street portraiture as I find it most satisfying. I love to capture strangers with different moods and expressions.

THE PEOPLE I MET

While I was walking through the alley, I saw this street side barber who was standing near his small shop waiting for clients in disparity. The COVID – 19 pandemic has hit such small businesses very hard.

Just when I had finished taking his picture, few other people surrounded me. They started questioning me about my purpose of taking pictures. This is a very common thing in a street photographer’s life. I knew this situation will arise so I was quite prepared for it. The trick here is not to get scared but to remain cool and calm. I introduced myself and showed them the pictures with a smile. When they were convinced they asked me to take their photographs as well.

Later I met a Muslim gentleman who had just opened his shoe store for the day. I was quite impressed with his attire and look. I asked if I can photograph him. At first he was bit skeptical but later he agreed. Upon knowing my identity, he offered me tea as well but I thanked him for his kind gesture and moved ahead.

Further during my walk I met few other people who took interest in getting themselves photographed.

Towards the end of my morning walk I met my favorite subject – CHILDREN. I always enjoy clicking them because they are natural posers. I love capturing their innocence. They are pure and full of life.

From the ghetto

Joyful Friends

THINGS THAT I LEARNED

● You must have fire in your belly which is needed to excell.

● Be an inspiration for someone.

● Learn to walk alone.

● Don’t fear.

● Do what you love, love what you do.

● Life is beautiful.

– Photography and documentation: Dr.Devdoot Roy Chaudhury. devdootroychoudhury@gmail.com