A city's essence is a unique fusion of its architecture, culture, inhabitants, and ambiance. To capture this essence in a photograph involves attention to detail, storytelling skills, and the ability to seize precious moments. Vivek Mathew, a photographer based in Bengaluru, describes his photography journey as a quest to capture the beauty of fleeting moments through his lens. His cityscapes feature a mix of human figures, landmarks, and the sky, which he sees as a silent actor in his visual narratives.
Showcasing a monument's character
Approach: Highlighting the grace of a historical site
Technique: When photographing monuments such as Vidhana Soudha on Independence Day or St. Mary's Basilica at Christmas, my focus is on creating well-balanced compositions and capturing the structures in the sunset light. This approach allows me to highlight the unique features of the buildings.
Success factors: By capturing these images at dusk with ample lighting, I am able to reveal intricate details that would have been lost against a dark sky. Achieving a balance between natural and artificial lighting is crucial for producing visually appealing images.
Adding life to street scenes
Approach: Capturing the vibrancy of a bustling street
Technique: Incorporating people and vehicles into street photography can add depth to the scene. I pay attention to the harmony between the sky, streetlights, and the activities on the street.
Success factors: These photos were taken at dusk, requiring careful adjustment to balance the fading light with street illumination. Patience and a keen eye for details were essential in capturing the perfect moment.
Five tips for enhancing your photography skills
1. Research your subject: Understand precisely what you aim to capture in your photographs, ensuring a clear vision for your shots.Engage in research to optimize your photographic outcomes. Prioritize conducting a reconnaissance of the location you plan to photograph for potential benefits in the future. Persevere in returning multiple times until you achieve the envisioned shot. Practice is key. Invest in a quality SLR camera, as the difference in image quality compared to a phone is significant. Your initial camera need not be expensive; seek options within your budget. Familiarize yourself with sunset timings to optimize natural lighting in your photos. Awareness of daylight variations through the seasons is crucial for effective planning. Take note of your surroundings to add unique elements to your photos and enhance their appeal, even when revisiting the same location.
