As an Indian photographer, how does your cultural heritage influence your work?

As an Indian photographer, my cultural heritage serves as a rich source of inspiration that significantly influences my work. Growing up in India and Singapore, and having traveled extensively across continents, excluding Australia, has deepened my appreciation for cultural diversity. This exposure has enabled me to weave together a fusion of cultural references from different countries and cultures in my photography. Whether I'm capturing a Catalog, Wedding, a Celebrity photoshoot, or filming a motion picture documentary, I strive to infuse my work with the richness and diversity of global cultures. 

India, with its myriad traditions, festivals, and languages, truly is a land of diverse cultures and offers a particularly fertile ground for exploring cultural themes especially when every state boasts its own unique identity, reflected in its language, customs, cuisine, and attire. My photography endeavors often center around Mumbai, known as the Bollywood Capital of the World. I work with my team of fashion stylists, makeup, hair artists and designers. Together, we integrate cultural influences from diverse Indian states, creating visual narratives that celebrate India’s rich tapestry of heritage.

Through my lens, I aim to convey the complexity and beauty of India's cultural landscape, recognizing that understanding the ‘Idea of India’ as a nation is a lifelong journey. By incorporating a blend of cultural elements into my work, I not only pay homage to my own heritage but also contribute to a broader dialogue on cultural diversity and creativity in photography

Was there an influential figure in your life who introduced you to the world of photography or art in general?

Around the year 1989, when I was five years old, my father gifted me a tiny film camera that could fit into a child's pocket. It used a small 8mm film roll. I remember eagerly asking my family and relatives to sit and pose for me. I even captured images of shadows and simple things like plants and trees, which we often take for granted even today. At that young age, I had yet to grasp the idea that photography and filmmaking could be full-blown professions. 

After my first encounter with the 8mm camera, and later a 'hot-shot' camera purchased by my mother with her first salary, I became known as the family photographer. We frequently traveled within India, abundant with diverse cultures and landscapes. Upon reflection, I recognize the early signs of my passion for Photogrpahy composition and framing in the shots I captured as a child. Even then, I instinctively aimed for well-balanced compositions, clear location establishment, and adherence to the rule of thirds, although I was unaware of the art, skill, and science behind these techniques at the time. 

I am grateful to my parents for nurturing my passion and providing me with the freedom to explore my interests from an early age. Their support allowed me to pursue my passion and eventually led me to where I am today. In the words of Scoot McNairy, an actor who pivoted from a cinematography course to pursue photography, "I had a love for photography which of course rolled into cinematography". For me, it was a journey from one passion to its seemingly opposite counterpart.

Do you remember your first significant encounter with photography? Was there a specific moment or experience that sparked your initial interest?

Gosh, that's quite an interesting question. I apologize for the lengthy response, but I think you'll find it worth the read.

Reflecting on my journey, the seeds of my passion for photography were sown during my time at Whistling Woods International film school in Mumbai, India. Although I initially enrolled to study cinematography, I discovered a profound connection with still photography during our photography classes. Knowledge in the basics of Still photography is essential to understanding the complexities, science, physics and art of Cinematography. Little did I know that I was bitten by the Photography bug even after having moved on to the basics and advanced cinematography classes. Despite the modest beginnings with a basic Canon 550D camera due to financial constraints, I eagerly executed small photoshoots with friends, gradually refining my skills in composition, research, and post-production. For some shoots requiring advanced cameras and optics I used to rent them and split the cost among the team. That’s when I know that this is going to be my passion and my profession. 

As I delved deeper into the craft, opportunities began to unfold, culminating in a significant moment when the United Nations, Geneva commissioned me to record and interview the iconic Bollywood star Shahrukh Khan in 2011. This milestone not only validated my abilities but also propelled me into a whirlwind of cinematography and still photography projects.

From these experiences, I realized that photography was more than just a hobby—it was my calling. Despite the challenges, including financial limitations, I persevered, renting professional-grade equipment to execute projects with dedication and precision.

My journey, from humble beginnings as a street photographer to capturing renowned personalities and executing professional shoots, epitomizes my unwavering dedication to the art and science of visual storytelling. Each project fuels my passion further, reaffirming my belief that photography is not just a profession but a lifelong pursuit of creative expression and exploration.

How have your place of origin and your environment influenced your photographic work?

I was born in the densely populated city now called Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), which used to be the British capital during the 'British Raj.' I come from a humble middle-class family. Many scholars, poets, and literary artists hail from my state of West Bengal in India. Perhaps that's why my parents emphasized the importance of music and other arts from an early age. I learned to play the 'Tabla' when I was five years old. Art holds significant value in Bengali culture. In contrast, in other parts of India, parents often prioritize academia over the arts. As mentioned earlier, India is diverse, with each state resembling its own country. Therefore, I believe that being Bengali played a vital role in shaping my upbringing and eventually my profession

Are there any photographers or artists who particularly influenced you in your early days as a photographer?

I was always drawn to cinematographers like Lajos Koltai (for films like Malena), Peter Biziou (City of Joy, (The Truman Show), Blasco Giurato (Cinema Paradiso), the legendary Robert Richardson (The Four Feathers, Hugo), and more recent ones like Hoyte van Hoytema (Interstellar, Ad Astra) and Roger Deakins (Shawshank Redemption). I have also been a lover of classical music like my dad, albeit with a twist. Instead of listening to the classics like Beethoven, I prefer instrumental music, especially film scores. It’s like a drug to me, much like cinema. I find myself immersed in the music from motion picture films like Shawshank Redemption, Interstellar, and many more. My favorite composers are James Newton Howard, Hans Zimmer, and Thomas Newman.

Can you describe your creative process? How do you go from an idea to a finished image?

I usually work on two types of projects: ones that people hire me for, and ones I do for myself or with others for fun. For commissioned shoots, I start by understanding what the client wants. Then, my team and I come up with ideas and plans to achieve the desired look. We also discuss things like editing and the overall vibe of the photos. Sometimes, I plan the shoot based on how I want the final photos to look. Finding the right models or celebrities for the shoot is important, so we reach out to them or their agencies. Once everything is planned and the budget is approved, we set a date for the shoot. On the day of the shoot, my team and I get all the equipment ready and set up at the location. We make sure everyone knows what to expect and feels comfortable. I also talk to the talent(s) to make sure they understand the process and feel good about it. As the photographer, I try to create a fun and relaxed atmosphere on set. Sometimes things don’t go as planned, but I’ve learned to handle any issues and keep everyone happy.

After the shoot, I review the feedback from the talent and client and make sure they're happy with the results. Then, I move on to post-production, where I edit and process the images to make them look their best. Each photo can take anywhere from 2 to 7 minutes to edit, depending on the complexity. If I have a lot of photos to work on, I sometimes outsource the editing to a trusted colleague who specializes in color correction. This helps me manage a heavy workload while ensuring the quality of the final product,

Of all your projects, is there one that you consider the most meaningful or personal? Because?

Undoubtedly, my favorite projects involve directing documentary short films or behind-the-scenes footage of famous personalities, where I conduct interviews while filming. Capturing candid moments of people is also something I love from a director’s perspective. While my colleagues may be surprised to hear this, I'm feeling a bit saturated with still photography and cinematography projects. I'm eager to be involved in projects that require me to interview eminent personalities, from CEOs and actors to comedians, crew members, fans, and celebrities themselves. I believe I have a knack for asking engaging questions on the spot, without needing to refer to notes. This allows the conversation to flow naturally, even while the camera is rolling.

Challenges in the Industry: What are some of the challenges you have faced in your career and how have you overcome them?

1. The business of freelancing- Over time, I've improved my client management and negotiation skills. Initially challenging, I've learned to set clear payment terms and ensure timely compensation for my services. Continuous learning has boosted my confidence in navigating the business of photography. It's essential for professional photographers to also excel as business people because, fundamentally, photography is a business.

2. Investment cost: Photography requires lower initial investment costs as compared to the networking and years of mentorship I would have to endure. I used to be shy and introverted and Working independently allowed me to call the shots and develop my skills at my own pace, unlike the longer path required in cinematography under a mentor.

3. Competition: In Mumbai, and indeed throughout India, the competition among cinematographers can be fierce. While talent and skill are undoubtedly important, it's often the case that connections and networking play a significant role in securing opportunities. Unfortunately, sometimes these connections can overshadow pure talent, leading to a sense of frustration among many aspiring cinematographers. It's a reality that many in the industry are aware of, though not all may agree with it. Nonetheless, navigating this competitive landscape requires not only exceptional cinematography skills but also the ability to cultivate meaningful relationships within the industry. I was not good at all of these things when I first started working after graduating from film school

4. Unorganized Film industry in comparison to Photography- Compared to the structured Indian fashion photography sector, the film industry in India operates with less organization. This disparity is seen in project management, financial transparency, and professional standards. Despite its challenges, the film industry allows for innovation and creativity as filmmakers navigate its complexities.

5. Foul Language- Negative experiences on sets especially while working under a renowned cinematographers, including unprofessionalism and the use of foul language by some cinematographers, deterred me from pursuing cinematography as passionately as before

6. Clarity of communication- In every aspect of my photography, whether it's capturing celebrities or covering weddings, clear communication is key. To ensure alignment with clients or talent, I utilize emails and WhatsApp messages to document meeting details and avoid misunderstandings. Effective communication is crucial to prevent potential conflicts, which could escalate and require legal intervention post-project completion. Additionally, I prioritize face-to-face meetings in casual settings like cafes, where body language and tone contribute to candid discussions, fostering better understanding and collaboration.

7. Backup plans- When dealing with a team of creatives; for whatever reason if there are issues, be it technical or other external factors having a plan B is important. If its a big budget assignment then I might consider Plan C also. 

8. Providing services for free- Most freelance creatives have to provide free services as a trial or to build their portfolio. It’s the equivalent of a corporate employee being paid a miniscule salary at the early stages of their career. Photography requires huge investments in Equipment and the intangibles like time, knowledge and networking. Even after a few years I used to continue to provide services for free. Then later on in my career I made a conscious end to that practice even if it is an important celebrity/client. ‘If I am good at something I will never provide that service for free’. This has been my mantra for many years now. 

How do you hope your work impacts your audience? Is there a specific reaction you're looking to provoke?

I always carry my camera with me when I travel. And the projects I commission are the ones that I do for myself and my professional growth. I'm somewhat selfish in this regard—I prefer doing things in a particular way which I perfected through trial and error and by pushing boundaries. One memorable experience was capturing fellow travelers against the vibrant backdrop of Busan, South Korea, resulting in stunning shots that resonated with viewers. Some of these impromptu photography sessions are some of my best ones and some of my viewers love it. 

My aim is to impress the audience with both technical prowess and aesthetic appeal while provoking thought and inspiring younger generations. I strive to break away from the mainstream and carve out my niche because in today's day and age one only sees perfection on social media. I want to break that chain. My existing audience dissects my work, providing positive and reinforcing creative criticisms that motivate me to continue evolving. I also hope to inspire younger generations to delve deeper into photography by encouraging them to question my project execution and detailed shoot planning process. My images are intricate, with many layers and depth.

Are there any other artists or photographers, within or outside India, who have influenced or inspired you?

Not particularly photographers as I was always immersed in the world of Cinema. Though I always admired Photojournalism and conflict photographers and their works. It requires guts! 

With advances in photographic technology, how do you see the balance between traditional technique and new digital tools?

This is the most debatable topic of discussion among veterans in the filmmaking fraternity and film enthusiasts: to use film or not. Having studied cinematography and photography with traditional analog films, in my opinion, film will always have a place in the art of capturing images. Technology has still not replaced it. But it’s the sense of euphoria and nostalgia that makes shooting on analog film a more joyous and immersive process. I can write pages on this topic but to keep it short; I am of the firm belief that as we move into the future and technology advances, there is no way we can choose to use only digital. There are numerous factors involved when choosing a format. Hence, it’s the filmmaker or the photographer’s creative vision that will eventually fuel the desire to use analog film or digital censors. I personally photograph both on digital and analog film. The beauty and charm of photographing on analog film are far more exhilarating. That said, certain projects require me to use digital formats due to certain limitations, be it financial or thematic.

As our president, the president of the Tourism and Society Think Tank, Antonio Santos, tells us, his great passion is cinema. Are there film directors or specific films that you consider a significant influence on your approach to photography? How are these influences reflected in your work?

My work broadly focuses on people from all walks and shades of life. I try my best to effortlessly shift from capturing monochromatic stills to displaying a pallet of colours in action. Moreover, I hope that my creation's encompass an interesting amalgamation of romanticism and reality, coupled with technical expertise and a far-reaching vision

For this vision I have to thank the works of experts like Directors and Cinematographers I look up to. Films like ‘The curious case of Benjamin Button’, ‘The Motorcycle diaries’, ‘1917’, ‘Interstellar’, ‘Cast Away’ ‘Lincoln’, ‘Schindler's List’ and some of Satyajit Ray’s films from the 1930’s and 1940’s. He received an Oscar award on his deathbed for his contribution to cinema and inspiring filmmakers all over the globe whom he influenced a great deal. Satyajit Ray was Bengali like me. His film negatives are safely stored in a safe vault in the USA. All these and many other old films like Roberto Benini’s ‘Life is beautiful’, director Akira Kurosawa’s films, Stephen Speilberg’s ‘Saving Private Ryan’ and ‘Terminal’, M. Night Shyamalan’s ‘The Sixth Sense, ‘Unbreakable’, ‘The Village’ and all of Terrance Malick’s films have inspired me and have helped shape my craft in Still Photography.  I rewatch these film’s and specially focus on the craft of storytelling, the subtle way actors express themselves without speaking a word.

Sometimes I try to tell a story by showcasing a series of photos inspired by films, hence I most often have a cinematic approach. Such is the power of cinema and visual storytelling.

I must also thank my Film school professors and mentors, the late Mr Rajan Kothari (ISC), Mr Ashwini Kaul (ISC), Mr Krishnamurthy, Mr Manoj Peter. I must also give thanks to the lighting technicians who work behind the scenes in helping me and my fellow colleagues by assisting us in every step of the way.

Lighting plays a central role in both film and photography. Are there film-inspired lighting techniques that you apply in your photography to create particular atmospheres or feelings?

Works of the above mentioned directors and cinematographers’ works influence my work. I must confess that when I was a full time cinematographer before moving purely onto being a Non-Fiction film director and Fashion editorial and Documentary  photographer, I would always fail to create a desired look. 

On most occasions I would struggle to maintain lighting continuity for motion picture projects.   Instead of sulking and feeling let-down I would listen to interviews of my favorite directors, cinematographers on how they approach it. Hence nowadays I film and photograph mostly using natural light. There is no better substitute for it. And when it comes to lighting for motion picture productions, which is my weakness, I always involve a lighting specialist or an experienced gaffer to help me through the process. Photography and filmmaking is a team effort. I alone cannot take the credit for my successes and failures. 

Director/Cinematographer Reed Morano sums it up well. She says “a lot of cinematography is intuition. It’s an art, not a formula”. The same applies to lighting in still photography for me.

Although photography cannot capture sound directly, how are you inspired by the use of sound and silence in film to add a layer of meaning to your images?

My intention is always to produce still images and make it look like it was a still from a film scene. That’s always my intention when photographing people from a documentary perspective or famous celebrities. How I end up doing that is something I have not figured out yet to be honest. But I do know that my friends and clients come back to me for more.

What important lessons have you learned from cinema that you apply to your photographic work to enrich it and give it greater depth?

1. Photography has nothing to do with the camera- Photography transcends the mere tool of a camera. It is a means of storytelling, a medium to capture emotions, experiences, and moments in time. It's about connecting with subjects, understanding their stories, and conveying them through images. I value the essence of photography beyond the technical aspects while emphasizing the importance of creativity, vision and empathy in the process.

2. Visual narratives: An image is worth a thousand words, or even more. One such image I captured was of an elderly woman at an Indian railway station, begging for money. It serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the depths of human suffering. Another poignant moment I captured was on a beach in Chennai, South India. A fisherman approached me, asking for some money for tea. In exchange, I asked for a photograph. His weathered face and eyes filled with pain spoke volumes about his life's struggles and the hardships endured at sea. Despite the language barrier, we shared an understanding. These encounters epitomize the essence of documentary photography, where single images can leave an indelible mark, persisting long after life has left the body.  >Sometimes, the true art and joy of photography lie not in the end result, but in the process itself

3. Psychology & Emotional Intelligence- I need to understand body language, speech tonality, the art of convincing people, clear communication to ensure everyone is on the same page, crisis management when least expected, teamwork, asking for feedback, and executing photography projects seamlessly, efficiently, and cost-effectively without compromising on quality and the fun factor.

4. Visual Motifs- Being a big fan of world cinema, especially from the films mentioned above, my thought process works in a certain way, automatically looking for ways to add different layers and depth to an individual image

5. Character Traits- An example: when photographing an emerging artist, a series of still images or even just one image needs to evoke emotions so that the audience can grasp the subject's personality and character. I like to do this especially for emerging freelancers, whether it's a renowned nutritionist or an up-and-coming musician or an existing business tycoon, so that people understand what the subjects are all about. Filmmakers employ these techniques by utilizing colors, camera angles, lighting, and specific objects (e.g., the spinning top in the film ‘Inception’). Ultimately, it comes down to creating meaningful connections to convey the backstory, mood, and personality of the subject using such elements, which adds depth to an image, much like in cinema

6. Lighting: Light Creates Mood, adds Drama. Light and Shadow are Powerful Tools for Photographers to use. Playing with bright areas and darker parts of an image has the ability to make images more deep and add a layer of the subject’s feelings. 

7. Emotional Depth: I have to admit it’s hard to simplify this. So, I will quote cinematographer Shane Hurlbut (ASC); “If you make every choice as a cinematographer based on the emotions of characters, you will hit a home run every single time”.: 

8. Composition: I believe many fellow photographers, including myself, enhance our photography and the art of creating images with depth and meaning by learning from the masterful composition techniques used by eminent cinematographers. Key concepts like the rule of thirds for balanced compositions, leading lines to direct the viewer's eye to a particular part of the frame, framing such as the use of the ‘dutch angle’ to convey the sinister personality of a character, and the strategic use of negative space to emphasize subjects play a big role. Additionally, I pay close attention to how cinematographers and my professors in film school have taught me to manipulate light and shadow to create depth, set the mood, and drive the narrative of a scene – skills that dramatically enhance still photographic storytelling

After traveling through some countries, what led you to decide to live in Chile? Was there a particular moment or experience that influenced this decision?

As I was backpacking in South Korea after attending the Busan International Film Festival, I felt a sense of liberation and reduced stress, prompting me to extend my stay for a month. I confided in my good friend Jankee back in Mumbai about my newfound optimism and sense of freedom while in SK. Living and working in Mumbai was getting monotonous and boring. Upon my return she did the impossible. She bravely sorted through old belongings, including items from past relationships. Eventually, she transformed my tiny apartment into a mini boutique hotel suite. It was a fitting metaphor for my creative process, always striving to think 'outside the box,' even when confined within one. No pun intended.

Meanwhile, I had a Chilean school friend from Singapore whom I had known since 1996. She floated the idea of coming and teaching English and working as a photographer as well. It took me a while to consider my options. Photography is all about contacts and I already had numerous existing clients who used to give me constant work. Eventually I decided that I wanted to make this change.

What aspects of Latin America and, specifically, Chile, attract you both personally and professionally?

As someone passionate about documentary and travel photography, I was always drawn to the rich tapestry of culture, history, and intrigue that Latin America offered. The allure of ancient civilizations like the Maya and Inca filled with mystery and wonder. The concept of simply being there captured my imagination, let alone living there. 

Films like "The Motorcycle Diaries" further fueled my fascination for the continent, inspiring me to explore its landscapes and cultures firsthand. Despite the rarity of Indian travelers in South America, I felt compelled to make the bold move and leave behind a 14 year career with many friends, family and job prospects to immerse myself in its beauty and diversity. For me, Latin America represented a distant exotic land, brimming with untold stories and hidden gems waiting to be discovered through my lens. 

Now that I am there I believe that the vibrant colours of each country, dynamic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage provide me with endless opportunities for creative expression and exploration. Chile, in particular, holds a special allure with its breathtaking natural scenery, from the rugged Andes mountains to the pristine shores of the Pacific Ocean. The country has a  unique blend of indigenous traditions and colonial history which offers me with a wealth of photographic inspiration. Whether capturing the vibrant street life of Santiago, traversing the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert. The continent is a canvas ripe for visual storytelling. 

Moreover, the desire for change from the monotonous work and non existent social life of Mumbai played a significant role in my decision to move. I wanted to immerse myself in the vibrant energy and cultural richness of Latin America and break free. In doing so, I hope to not only expand my artistic horizons but also find renewed inspiration and fulfillment in my photography journey. Additionally, I see myself as an unofficial ambassador for India, not leaving to forget my culture and roots, but rather to embrace it further by being in a distant land. I proudly enlighten my friends in Chile about the beauty of my motherland.

Cultural Influences: How has the rich cultural diversity of Chile and Latin America influenced your work and artistic vision?

Having lived in Chile for just about a year, I am continually inspired by the vibrant colors, dynamic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage and diversity of the region. My decision to move to Chile was motivated by a desire to break free from the monotony of life in Mumbai. As an avid traveler and photographer, I am eager to further explore Chile and Latin America through the eye of a documentary and travel photographer, capturing its essence and sharing its unique stories, traditions, and landscapes. Through my ongoing journey, I want to deepen my understanding and appreciation of the continent not just on my own and by watching films but along with my diverse group of friends whom I now call my family.

When comparing your work in India to your work in Chile, have you noticed any differences in your creative or thematic approach?

When comparing my work in India to my work in Chile, I've noticed several differences in my creative and thematic approach. In India I often captured the diverse cultures of different states, especially in Mumbai, the Bollywood capital. There, I had many opportunities to explore and represent the cultural nuances of the film and television industry. Now that I'm in South America, I'm still exploring and learning. Despite being relatively new to Chile I hope to blend South Asian and Latin American cultures into my work. Moving here has given me a sense of freedom and new inspiration. It's not just about escaping the routine of  Mumbai, but also about embracing my cultural heritage in a new place and expanding my creativity.

Can you tell us about any photography projects you have worked on in Chile or elsewhere in Latin America?

During my year-long journey in Chile, I've been busy capturing the rich tapestry of cultural differences between South Asia and this vibrant region. From collaborating with street photographers and expats to sharing moments with local comedians, the security and cleaning staff of my apartment building, and individuals from all walks of life, each encounter adds depth to my creative journey. These diverse conversations, associations and collaborations have allowed me to explore a wide range of genres, from photographing professional Latin American Models for local business working with indigenous communities to delving into the intimate realm of Boudoir photography, where I celebrate the beauty, diversity of the human form, and their personal and physical insecurities. 

Drawing from my experience as a visual psychiatrist, as well as my role in comforting and interviewing industry professionals, I bring a unique perspective to handling the anxiety often associated with being in front of the camera. My desire and motivation to live in Chile fuels this creative journey, propelling me forward with passion and purpose. With nearly 16 years of experience in photography, cinematography, directing, producing, and executive production, including my formative years at Film School, I consider my confidence and expertise in the field to be among my greatest assets.

Beyond traditional photography, my focus has shifted towards a more authentic portrayal of people, capturing their complexities, flaws, and insecurities in a raw and honest manner. This transition marks a departure from my previous work, which often involved extensive post-processing and documenting the exorbitant lifestyles of celebrities. Life in Chile offers me the chance to slow down, meet new people from a land I still consider enigmatic, and explore different places at a more relaxed pace compared to the hustle and bustle of Mumbai. You can explore more of my work on my Instagram account @ayushdas, where I strive to showcase the simplicity and intricacies of ordinary life through my lens.

Concluding our interview with Ayush Das, we have navigated through a journey that not only spans geographies from India to Chile and beyond, but also a creative journey that interweaves the rich cultural tapestry of these regions with the art of photography. The influence of cinema, the adaptation to new environments and the exploration of visual narratives stand out in his work, showing how photography can be a bridge between cultures and a window to diverse human realities.

Ayush has given us an intimate insight into his creative process, his inspirations and how his transcontinental experience has enriched his artistic perspective. His passion for telling stories through his lens and his ability to capture the essence of humanity in his photographs are a powerful reminder of the universality of visual art.

We thank Ayush Das for sharing his world with us, inviting us to appreciate the beauty in diversity and depth in every moment captured. His work is a testimony of how photography, in his hands, becomes a continuous dialogue between the artist, his subject and the viewer, transcending barriers to touch the universal. We look forward to the future narratives that Ayush will continue to share, always reminding us to look beyond the visible.