How did your journey in conceptual photography begin?
Ever since I was a child, I have been drawn to creative storytelling through movies and visual art. As I grew older, I wanted a way to express my own ideas and emotions, and photography became that outlet. Conceptual photography especially appealed to me because it allows me to transform thoughts, memories, and abstract concepts into meaningful visual narratives. It felt like the perfect medium to bring my inner world to life.
What was the first concept you ever photographed, and how did it feel?
The first conceptual project I ever captured was titled Reminiscence. Through this project, I explored themes of memory and nostalgia while incorporating the beauty of Indian architecture. It was the first time I transformed an idea into a visual narrative, and seeing the final images come together was a truly rewarding experience. The project made me realize the power of photography to convey emotions and stories beyond what is immediately visible. Creating Reminiscence filled me with a sense of pride and encouraged me to continue exploring conceptual photography as a form of self-expression.
How has your approach to conceptual photography evolved over the years?
As a high school student, my journey in conceptual photography is still in its early stages, but it has already evolved significantly. I have been interested in photography since 9th grade, and with each project, I have developed a stronger ability to identify meaningful concepts and translate them into visual stories. In the beginning, I focused mainly on capturing aesthetically pleasing images. Over time, however, I became more interested in the ideas and emotions that photographs can communicate. This shift has helped me approach photography more thoughtfully, paying greater attention to symbolism, composition, and storytelling. As I continue learning and experimenting, I find myself creating concepts with more depth and executing them more effectively, allowing my work to become increasingly intentional and expressive.
What inspires the themes and ideas behind your conceptual images?
The themes and ideas behind my conceptual photography are primarily inspired by human emotions and the desire to express experiences that are often difficult to put into words. I am fascinated by how photography can visually communicate feelings, memories, and personal reflections, allowing viewers to connect with an image on a deeper level. At the same time, I enjoy exploring ideas beyond emotions. I am curious about the world around me and often draw inspiration from concepts in science, particularly physics. I find it exciting to translate abstract ideas and theories into visual narratives, using photography as a bridge between creativity and intellectual exploration. Whether I am expressing an emotion or interpreting a scientific concept, my goal is to create images that encourage thought and spark curiosity.
Tell us about a photo that represents your most iconic conceptual work and the story behind it.
This photograph is part of my album Reminisce, a project that explores memory, time, and the stories carried through everyday moments. Rather than focusing on a person's face, the image centers on an elderly woman's hands, where signs of age, experience, and a lifetime of memories become visible. The warm sunlight, worn wooden boat, and traditional clothing create a sense of nostalgia and reflection. Together, these elements suggest that memories are not only held in our minds but are also reflected in the marks, objects, and moments that accompany us throughout life. Through this image, I aim to capture the quiet beauty of lived experience and the passage of time.
What was the creative process or challenge in that behind-the-scenes shot?
As a high school student, I do not have access to a professional studio or dedicated photography setup. Most of my work is created using available natural environments, everyday objects, and natural lighting. For this photograph, the setting was a real-life location rather than a constructed set, as I wanted to capture an authentic moment and genuine emotions. My approach focuses on observation, composition, and storytelling rather than elaborate equipment or staged environments.
Walk us through the editing techniques you used in that before-and-after example.
For this image, I used color grading to enhance the mood and atmosphere. I adjusted the tones to create a warmer, more nostalgic feel that complements the conceptual theme. The goal was to subtly emphasize the emotional quality of the photograph without making the edits too obvious.
Contact and Follow
Email: nithyabussiness@gmail.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nithya-sai-sri-yerra
Behance: https://www.behance.net/nithyasaisri
