Times of Youth: For those who don’t know about you and your work, can you tell us a little about yourself?
I am a photographer at heart. I have been practicing this art for the past 5 years. I love everything about photography and that is why I never get bored. I never get scared while experimenting with various art forms. I believe that if you think yourself as an expert, it stops your growth and that is why I am forever an amateur. Moreover, I am going to launch an company on photography next month which will be India’s first company of its kind.
Times of Youth: What does photography mean to you?
In the beginning photography was just a hobby for me. But the more time I spent with it the more I fell in love. I feel it is a way to interact with the surroundings. With each photograph you capture the essentials of a event for the eternity.
Times of Youth: What style(s) do you specialize in?
Fashion photography, candid wedding photography, commercial photography, fine art and street photography are the genres I specialize in.
Times of Youth: Who are your favorite classic photographers, and how did they influence your career path?
One of my favorite is Auditya Venkatesh. His photographs does not look exceptionally difficult to capture but the perspective that they hold is unique in its own sense. Next is Praveen Bhat, one of the best fashion photographers in India. I have followed his work for quite some time and myself have incorporated his styles in my captures. Finally the best among my personal favorites, Jeremy Cowart. I love his commercial shoots the best among his work.
Times of Youth: As a photographer, which aspect is the most important to capture the subjects fantastically?
There are a lot of aspect when it comes to getting the best photo. But as far as my personal choice goes, I prefer the candid aspects of pictures because natural emotions speak louder than any artificial euphoria.
Times of Youth: What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started taking photos?
I used to hinge the quality of photographs hinges only on the quality of equipments you have. Though equipments matter, but it is more about perception and your artistic eye.
Times of Youth: How do you get the person, place or thing that is in front of the camera onto the film, chip or paper in just the way you want?
I do not stress on getting the things my way. Rather, I try to keep the natural aspect of the picture. That said, I do take some measures like trying different angles, different lightings to get different perspective. I also experiment with the reflections sometimes.
Times of Youth: What technology/software/camera gear do you use to keep focused on what you do best, as you photograph?
I use the Nikon D810. I also prefer working with the D5200, which was my previous gear. The lenses i mostly use are 35mm f/1.4 and 50mm f/1.4, f/1.8. I also used 70-200mm for capturing wedding photographs. I am going to buy a 135mm f/2.0 for portrait photography. Coming to the software I use Adobe Photoshop CC and Adobe Lightroom. Apart from these I use tripods and reflectors, speedlight flashes to aid me. I am also going to buy softbox for fashion and commercial photography , which I used to rent out earlier.
Times of Youth: Of all the conferences & workshops that you’ve been to, which has been the most memorable?
I generally attend online sessions. I have not yet attended any large scale workshop yet. In my opinion photography is an art. It can not be learned in 2-3 days workshop. The more you explore, the more you learn. I generally see videos on youtube. Phlearn Photoshop and Photography Tutorials youtube channel is one of my favorite.
Times of Youth: Among your works, which one is your favorite? Why?
It is hard to say. I learn something new every day. But if you must have my favorite then it is the commercial shoot with Harley-Davidson, I did a few days back. I am sharing some of the photographs.
One word answers:
1. What type of cameras do you shoot with?
Nikon D810, D5200
2. If you had to choose one lens which one would it be?
35mm
3. What is your favourite photography accessory, other than your camera?
Tripod
4. How would you describe your style?
Candid
5. What is your most used Photoshop tool, plug-in, action set etc.?
Camera Raw
Times of Youth: One of today’s main discussion points amongst photographers is about the use of digital photography and computer softwares to beautify the clicks; what is the influence of digitalization on your photography?
I would be lying if I say I do not use technology to improve upon my shots. I have used photoshop and a couple of other tools to cover up on the limitations of the camera. The camera cannot capture exactly what I see in a frame and therefore I use these tools to fill the gap.
Times of Youth: Considering your potential, we believe that you have the power to bring a rational change in the world using your skills. If given a chance, what would you like to do to make this world place a better place?
I would love to bring forward the hidden realities of our contemporary world. I do not need any extraordinary power for that. What we see is just the tip of the iceberg and I am ready to take the plunge and surface with what stays hidden.
Times of Youth: Do tell us how your admirers/fans can reach you to share their appreciation or feedback.
My Facebook Page – www.facebook.com/photogalaxy.dhiyavasu
Website – www.dhiyavasu.com ( Under maintenance right now, will be within 5-6 days )
Times of Youth: Any advice you’d give to aspiring youngsters who want to enter in this field now or in the future?
People always ask about which camera/gear you use. But the thing which is more important than the gears is your artistic eye and your perception of the surroundings. Do not stress on getting the best equipment from the very beginning. Do not work to get popular, rather follow your interest. Learn with dedication and work with passion; fame will follow.
