I think that generally, we forget to ask ourselves “why” we do anything at all. If you ask the question “why,” – it helps you often get to the core of your life’s purpose.

Now the question is, why a Photo Tour or Workshop?

You may say that I am not qualified enough to hold photo tours or workshops or that my photo tours and workshops are too expensive. Instead of defending myself about how I teach photography in workshops, I rather want to express that I share my knowledge of photography through workshops. My father who was a teacher always used to say that if you share your knowledge, it will not decrease, but rather it will increase, and it’ll be polished. So, I followed his path. I share my knowledge, and by sharing and discussing, I too learn. I live by the principle of learning from everybody, every day.

I don’t hold photo tours or workshops just to make money for my living expenses or to buy expensive cameras. I love the feeling that I’m helping people learn. There is nothing more satisfying than when I notice thoughts flashing through the brains of people who join my workshop. It brings me joy to see them grasp new concepts and improve their skills. The exchange of knowledge and growth is truly rewarding for me as a teacher.

OK. Coming back to the main question, “Why?” Why is a workshop required?
The answer is simple: improve your vision. A workshop is an educational experience to help you improve your vision of art.

I would like to share one of my bitter experiences here. A few years ago, there was a photography competition, and the organisers wanted me to be the judge. After judging and giving the award to the man who won the first prize, I asked him, “Do you know why I chose your entry as the winner?” He had no words. I was surprised… It was such a strong image, and he didn’t even know it…!

There are rules, and if you don’t know the rules, then what is the point of breaking them? So, if you cannot identify what is right or wrong with your photograph, it is impossible to improve yourself.

I’m here not only to teach you the rules and techniques of photography, but to shape your perspective: What lies in your field of vision? How are the elements connected? What does one make an image of? I’ll show you how to ensure that the image is full of meaning and impact. And how can you convey that meaning? Every picture of yours will tell a story. I will help you discover your own visual language, as well as practical and conceptual, and know how to confront real-life situations through storytelling.

Simply put, you will learn to analyse the world as you look at it with your eyes and see it in an entirely new way. That is, visualizing…

Tell your own story

Are you able to tell your own story in your own way? Have you created your own style?
Every art form is a unique creation of its artist; photography is no exception, and every photographer has their own distinct style. Renowned for their unique approach, they carve a niche in the industry. Similarly, you have to create your own style, leaving behind a signature of uniqueness. People should identify your image among a lot of images. Let people recognize you by that uniqueness. This is really very important.

Your camera is alive

Yes, your camera is alive. If you love your camera, your camera will also love you. It’s a mother-child relationship. You have to know your camera first. You have to know everything about your camera. You have to know the maximum limit of your equipment. Then only it’ll obey your command.

You must have a great camera!!!

Lots of people ask me which camera I have or whether one must have an expensive camera. I always say one thing to them: It’s not the camera that takes a photo; it’s you; you are taking the picture. You have to see; you have to visualise; and you have to find a message that you want to express through your picture. That is more important. Remember one thing. You should never be handicapped by your camera. A camera is just a tool and nothing more than that.

What truly matters is your creativity, your vision, and your ability to capture a moment in a unique way. Don’t let the cost or brand of your camera limit your potential as a photographer. Your passion and skill are what truly makes a great photograph, not the equipment you use.

Winning Trust

Yeah, this is really very important. The most important part of photographing a person is winning their trust and confidence. Being able to come up or down to one’s level to ensure strong communication is what it takes to honestly connect with a person. The best love is when two people touch each other’s soul. So, you have to touch their soul. Then only you’ll get the perfect expression of that person. And if you have their trust, then only you’ll get access, and if you have access, then you have everything.

Building a genuine connection with the person you are photographing will result in authentic and captivating images that truly reflect their essence. Trust is the foundation of successful photography, allowing for vulnerability and emotion to shine through in the final photographs.

Perfect Timing

People ask me how I can identify the perfect moment to take a photograph. You are never sure of the perfect moment because you’re always looking and anticipating. You are never quite sure when the moment is right because it can either peak or be on the verge of disappearing. So, it depends on your intuition and reflexes to guess the perfect moment!

Trust your instincts, and be ready to capture the moment as soon as you feel it is right. The more you practice, the better you will become at recognising those perfect moments to snap a photo.

Your best shot

The single most common mistake is including multiple images that are too similar – images that were clearly shot at the same time and only slightly different. That is a very negative indicator of a photographer’s ability or willingness to evaluate their own work.

Try to show your best shot; don’t show your average shots. It’s also very important how you select your best shot. By critically analysing and rejecting, you’ll be able to select your best shot. Every photographer shoots a lot but shows a single one!

Remember, quality over quantity is key when showcasing your work. Take the time to choose the image that truly represents your skills and vision as a photographer. Selecting your best shot will leave a lasting impression on viewers and potential clients.

In the end

If you look at the photographers whose work we admire, you’ll see that they have found a particular place, theme, or subject, dug deep into it, and carved out something that’s become special. That takes a lot of time and a lot of work; it’s not for everyone. A great photograph really needs to say something about a person or give some insight into their life or how their life is different from yours and mine. A good picture makes us curious and makes us want to know more.

My father always used to tell me one thing: if you want to learn English, then you have to talk in English, you have to write in English, and even if you have to dream in English, then only you can learn English. So, in your dream, you also have to be a photographer. Your dream has to be so vivid that you can see all the details clearly so that you can achieve it. It’s like a polestar that will pull you.

If you use a digital camera, do not just click. Plan your shots as though you are shooting with film. Not only will you learn the technical aspects of photography faster, but you will also develop skills. Study light whenever you can. Light is both your best friend and your worst enemy.

During the course of time, be ready for criticism. Do not be discouraged, as you will not be able to satisfy everyone, and at the same time, you should respect others’ work too. Develop a style on your own and fill a niche that sets you apart from the rest, which is really important. In the beginning, you may feel that nothing is happening, but after a few years of practising and living the dream of photography, you’ll find that you have created your own style.