After the article about his photographic work, Srivatsan was so kind as to grant us an interview. You can get a glimpse of his photographic work here.
Could you please tell us something about yourself?
I’ m Srivatsan Sankaran from Chennai. Currently I am working as Software Engineer in IT company but I have been pursuing my passion for photography for the past 3 and half years.
Can you briefly tell us about your photographic background? When did you start taking photographs, how did you start?
Photography used to be an area of significant interest till 12th Grade . In the two years, I developed a keen fascination for photography. It resurfaced on a trip to Munnar ,Kerala where I had my first experience using a small camera with which I clicked picture of sunrise with a heavy fog. I put up the clicked pictures on Flickr and received comments by foreigners which really appreciated me. Apart from that, I kept active by participating in photo contest and got featured many times. Though I did not pursue any photographic courses, I am getting serious about photography and learning it online with a little help from friends. In due course of time, I started to contribute my pictures for international stock photo agencies. Later, I got opportunities to cover a couple of assignments.
What photographic style do you prefer? Would you like to specialize in a specific area, such as street photography or portrait / landscape photography?
I always prefer color photographs and love to freeze the moments of happiness. I like to specialize in macro and landscape photography though I am interested in street photography. I am very fond of shooting the small creatures which helps to understand the characteristics of nature in the better way.
Can you tell us how your work flows from the moment you get the idea to the stage of final presentation?
Well, it depends on the type of photography. If you love to shoot landscape, travel a lot and explore an unexplored area. When you come to macro photography, it depends on the place and season. Sometimes, it gives frustration because of visiting the same place many times without single macro shot. But I could say definitely it’s a worth try !!
Could you possibly provide a tip to the amazing macro/Landscape photograph style, how much the pictures are processed afterwards, and what else one should take into consideration?
Capture the image in your own perspective. Always shoot in RAW format that helps you to process the landscape/ Macro photographs. I will just make some corrections and enhance the colors in Light Room 5 that helps you to understand the how the image should be. Be careful during post production because it may bring spooky colors.
In your opinion, what constitutes the art of producing extraordinary Macro/Landscape photographs, and what are the characteristics of a good picture in this field?
The art of producing extraordinary image depends on how deeply you are passionate about it. Deep passion depicts everything in the photographs.
What equipment do you use and what are your favorite focal lengths?
I shoot with Canon 6D with 50mm, Tamron 90mm f/2.8 macro lens, Samyang Fish eye lens for canon 500D. I always shoot with kit lens and so it helps to understand in terms of Technical aspects like lightings, etc ,. I also carry with me a couple of ND filters for shooting long exposure. Tamron 90mm f/2.8 always assists me in macro shots and sometimes it will be helpful for shooting portraits. The other essentials include a Phoenix Smart Ring Flash RF46 and a sturdy slik tripod
What characterizes your work in comparison to other street photographers / landscape photographers?
I never compared with other’s work but I always admire their work and style of processing the image. It definitely helps you to create your own style.
Were there interesting incidents in your photo shoots, whether funny, embarrassing or sad?
A lot of embarrassing moments are encountered while shooting the macro and street photographs because the way of posing to shoot the small creatures will freak out the normal people. They used to come close but I never bother them. I never have time to explain to them because I may miss the moments with creatures to freeze!
What advice would you give to a newbie for his/her photographic career?
Follow your own passion and Never let it down. Respect other’s work. Most importantly, don’t copy other’s creativity! : )
Were you inspired by other photographers, and if so, which ones?
I am inspired by many photographers, Magazines and websites. Now, self Inspiration is the most important aspect of getting better in photography.
Do you have a dream for photography that you would like to fulfill?
I have a lot of dreams for photography to travel a lot and I want to take up my interest on photography to next level.
Would you like to tell us about something that is important to you?
If you shoot macro, take photographs without disturbing the small creatures especially their moments.
Thank you very much for this interview. We will follow your progress in photography and will continue to be inspired by it.
