A city's essence is a unique combination of its architecture, culture, people, and atmosphere. Capturing this essence in a photograph requires attention to detail, storytelling skills, and the ability to capture a moment's brilliance. Vivek Mathew, a photographer based in Bengaluru, discovered his passion for photography by wanting to seize the brilliance of moments through his camera lens. His city photographs feature a mix of human elements, landmarks, and the sky, which he compares to an essential character in his photographic storytelling.
Showcasing a building's character
Approach: To capture the grace of a landmark
Technique: When photographing landmarks like the Vidhana Soudha adorned in national colors for Independence Day or St Mary's Basilica during Christmas, I focus on creating well-balanced compositions and capturing the structures at sunset. This approach highlights the unique features of the buildings.
Success: These photos reveal intricate details that would have been obscured by a dark sky. Maintaining a balance between natural daylight and artificial lighting enhances the image's harmony and visual appeal.
Adding life to your photos with people and vehicles
Approach: To depict the vibrancy of a bustling street
Technique: Incorporating elements such as people and vehicles in street photography adds depth to the scene. I pay attention to balancing the sky and streetlights for a harmonious composition.
Success: These images were taken during dusk, requiring patience to achieve the right balance between the sky and streetlights. Careful observation and willingness to retake shots are essential to capturing the perfect moment.
Enhancing your photography skills in five ways
1. Research: Understand your subject before taking photos to capture it effectively.Engage in some research to achieve optimal results. Conduct a reconnaissance mission to the location you plan to photograph for future reference. Don't hesitate to revisit the site multiple times to capture the envisioned shot, as perfection often necessitates practice. Consider investing in a quality SLR camera, as the difference in photo quality is significant compared to using a phone. Your initial camera needn't break the bank; seek out options that align with your budget. Familiarize yourself with sunset timings to capitalize on natural lighting conditions. Summer days offer more daylight, while winter days are shorter – plan your shoots accordingly. Take note of your surroundings, as revisiting the same location can yield varied results. By observing your environment before taking the shot, you can enhance your pictures and make them more distinctive.
