Rajiv Srivastava
Some of my most recognised works are a coffee table book on - “100 Airports of India” a project that got launched by the Honourable Prime Minister. Tourism projects with Andaman & Nicobar Island Government. A recent project on Noida International Airport that was exclusively put together for the Honourable Prime Minister.
We are made up of what we see or experience around us. Since, my father was posted as a Jt. Director Education at Arunachal Pradesh. I was privileged or must say blessed to be born in one of the most scenic yet unexplored natural territory of the country. The natural beauty enticed me into becoming who I am today. But, thinking now about my passion for photography at Grade 2 I was so keen on understanding tenets of cameras that my father gifted me Kodak Ektralite Camera. What I am today is because my mom who always supports me.
After a series of work assisting greater minds in world of photography on fashion, aviation and landscape. I did my first solo exhibition at the age of 28 years bringing together the snow-capped mountains of Ladakh and sand dunes of Rajasthan into frame at the Visual Art Gallery at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. Positive reviews pushed me into exploring the possibilities of setting up my own company Imazin India that celebrated all forms of art.
I have also continued to pursue my independent photography and have been associated with several Government entities over last couple of years. Some of my most recognised works are a coffee table book on - “100 Airports of India” a project that got launched by the Honourable Prime Minister. Tourism projects with Andaman & Nicobar Island Government. A recent project on Noida International Airport that was exclusively put together for the Honourable Prime Minister.
2. How and when did you realize your passion for photography?
Due to my father’s posting I got to travel frequently across the Arunachal Pradesh and parts of North East. Over vacations we would come to our ancestral place in Banaras and Azamgarh and felt varied landscapes had their own charm.
As a person, I felt attracted to capturing the beauty of cityscapes - in Banaras while equally loving landscapes in faraway places - with natural history and elements. So you just sense that feeling of falling for a passion. But, it was not until my elder brother gifted me my first DSLR camera that these blended interests, ideas and aspirations fell into a place and I became a photographer.
3. What are some tips you would like to share with amateur photographers?
Your life is your journey, who you are comes with its uniqueness. So, explore within to understand what you can bring in to make a difference. The best of people are who they because they realised quite early their potential as well as passions and thrived for it. Look out for inspiration in others yet pursue what you truly believe in.
4. What are the important skills one should have to be a successful photographer?
I would say, success is subjective what one perceives to be an indicator of success may not be true for all. Yet for me a photographer must have due patience, and an understanding and ability to play with lights and frames.
5. What are various opportunities available for aspiring photographers?
Today’s generation is born in an era of opportunities, where access to gadgets, showcasing over social media forums, and exposure to ideas is in abundance. Yet, it’s important to learn your trade to be able to amplify and ride on such opportunities.
6. Which is your favourite book?
AFRICA by Sebastiao Salgado, In the shadow of mountains by Steve Mccurry.
Interviewed By - Abhilasha Raikar
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