Subhechcha Ganguly 
How was the interest in photography inculcated in you?
I was inspired by my uncle who worked in the similar field as me. He too used to go on for solo trips and in some of the trips I often accompanied him.Gradually I was inclined towards Heritage architecture. When I started looking through the lens, I was amazed by the details captured within the walls of the monument. And there were many places still not so popular till today which I try to share through my photographs.
Which picture of yours do you feel is the best click till date ? Please tell the story behind it .
I feel the best picture is of Hasnabad Dargah. I had come across this monument on an online article.This happened on one of my weekend trip to Mumbai. I had planned to visit this place near Byculla along with some pre independence Irani Cafe’s ,Unfortunately this Dargah was indeed a private property and wasn’t open to all communities. I took their permission and managed to click a few pictures from across the road before continuing my journey to the Regal Restaurant & Bakery.
What is the most difficult aspect of photography and what are some of the problems you have faced so far ?
Whenever I visit a place, I do the scouting well in advance. I fo through online resources, using Google maps to determine which location will better suit according to the Sun’s postion.Most of the temples are East facing so visiting the place early morning would have better lighting conditions where as if I’m interested in taking Silhouettes, having the sun behind the monument is preferable conditions. So, being fully prepared before visiting any place is really a time consuming process, but that’s worth the time spent. Apart from that there are several everyday challenges.For instance, you can’t ask someone to move out of the way,there are others too who would have paid the same entry fee.So I had to wait for them to pose and take selfies; after a while they do leave then only I can get a clear picture.
Another problem that I have faced is getting the permission for photography for several ASI monuments. It seems the authority are ok with mobile photography but not to DSLR.This situation was faced by me in Gol Gumbaz. I was strictly asked to deposit my Camera with the security but he allowed me to take photos on my phone.
Do you think Digital Media has increased the scope for photographers ? What aims do you have for photography ?
Definitely, for example Instagram is way more easy to locate a place of visit rather than going to blogs. If such digital platforms have not been in place, people wouldn’t have known that such a place really exists.And this is a blessing for beginners who are starting their photography journey to showcase their talent and also help people to know about their local culture cuisine. But there is a downside to this,places are getting overcrowded during the peak seasons, we do try to go to County side to escape from the daily mundane routine, but in the process we are disturbing the peaceful atmosphere of the Countryside and at many a times this aggravates the local people. My aim is to just to keep going to as many places as possible, enjoy the local cuisine, experience the art and architecture of the place that were built with such a finesse hundreds of years ago.
Also what do you suggest to people who want to take photography in future ?
First try exploring your native place or hometown and as and when the opportunity comes of because of job or studying one can explore them as well. We should never compare one’s level of photography with other’s as they they would have spent years honing that skill.Also most of the photos that one sees on social media are heavily edited and filtered. We should also remember ; not to replicate others work and try to be innovative.
Try to learn basic techniques of photography from online and go out to any place and practice them as much as possible.
Interview by : Subhechcha Ganguly
