1. What gear (cameras, lenses etc.) do you use?
You can read about all the gear that I use HERE.
2. When did you get into photography?
I started taking photos around 6 years ago. Photography might have come to me a little late in life, but I was always inclined towards arts.
3. What are you communicating through your images. Diversity, disparity, culture?
Change. I very strongly feel that the impact of Globalization has been felt by almost every part of the world. These people were able to sustain their culture and ways of life for hundreds of years. Now, suddenly with the technology reaching them they are forced to change the way they live. Consciously or unconsciously, they are changing and things will never be the same. I feel that it’s my duty and a responsibility as a photographer to document this change. I plan to keep going to these places again and again and document the change in the culture.
I love to see different culture and the way they live. To some extent its a personal journey which I think will only end when I die. I have learned some really important lessons in life while on these journeys.
4. What is the significance of using artifical light in your images.
I normally have a specific look in my mind, I want to create a body of work which is consistent and I know that the strobes will help me to make photographs which have a consistent feel and an aesthetic. Technically, I like to be in control of as many elements as possible in my photographs. I have very limited time while working with my subjects, so I cannot rely on natural light all the time. I don't have the time to deal with the shifts in color and intensity every time the sun goes behind the clouds. There isn't enough time to experiment or reshoot. I am sure if I shoot using artificial lights the chances of me going wrong are near to none!
Also, I am a big fan of people! I want it to be about the people. About the tribes and the cultures. Strobes helped me pull them out from their natural surroundings and create a body of work which revolved around the people.
5. Your views on photographing as an outsider. What it provides or does not provide.
It extremely important to be accepted. I don’t think you can create an honest body of work without being accepted. I believe that there is a universal language which people from different parts on the planet use to communicate. I don’t need words to put my point across. Most of the time people just get it. If your intentions are good, everything falls in place. Ninety-nine percent of the time I have been accepted by the people. I normally only start shooting when they let their guards down and don’t consider me as an outsider.
People are curious, people might not know me, would never hear from me but know that the photos I am taking will be received by someone on the other end who will share their happiness and sadness, who will listen to their voices.
6. Do you do workshops or seminars?
Yes, I do. Check out the 'Travel with me' section for more information.
7.Can I be your assistant, intern or join you on one of your journeys?
I have been getting asked this question a lot lately. My working conditions are relatively rough and I can't guarantee anyone anything while on the field. However I have set up a system of sorts that could be beneficial for you and for me, if you have the right skills or knowledge. READ MORE
8. Do you do your own post-processing?
Yes, almost everything you see on my website has been post-processed by me. Post-processing is an important part in any photographer's workflow, but getting the right shot with proper lighting, exposure and composition is the most crucial part.
9. How do you find out about these tribes?
I do a lot of research before making a decision of going somewhere. It doesn't happen in a week or a month, it normally takes more than 3-4 months of planning and research before I go on a trip.