How did your journey in street photography begin?
My journey started with a simple desire to capture moments with any camera I could get my hands on. Over time, I developed a keen eye for beautifully composed shots of everyday life—the people, the chaos, the fleeting expressions. My first true inclination toward street photography came after I got my second camera, a Fujifilm X-T5. That camera opened up a new world of possibilities, allowing me to see the streets not just as a backdrop but as a living, breathing canvas.
What was the first street photograph that made you feel you had captured something special?
It was a photograph of an old man staring into the abyss on the busy streets of Chandni Chowk in Delhi. I asked him if I could take his picture, and he calmly replied, "Lelo beta, par acchi nahi aayegi" (Take it, but it won't come out well). After I clicked that photo, I felt a rush—I knew I had captured something truly special. That moment taught me that the best shots often come from unexpected encounters.
How has your approach to street photography evolved over the years?
I started by taking the term "street photography" literally—capturing streets and architecture. But over the years, my style has evolved to include everything from candid portraits to layered compositions and chaotic street scenes. The biggest shift came when I learned to shoot in monochrome. Black and white strips away distractions and forces the viewer to focus on pure emotion. That realization was priceless and completely transformed how I see and capture the world.
Who or what inspires your street photography the most?
My inspiration for street photography has always been a mix of all kinds — from Raghu Rai's emotions, Henri Cartier-Bresson's perfections, Weegee's raw style, Takuma Nakahira's imperfections, to Xyza Bacani's vision. Reading and learning about the greats has been a principle of my photography.
What makes this particular photo your best street photography work?
These photos represent my best work because of their composition and contrast. Each image is crafted to instantly connect with the viewer—that's the recipe for making any photograph special. The interplay of light, shadow, and human emotion creates a narrative that speaks without words.
Tell us about a candid street portrait that tells a story.
The story behind this portrait is heartwarming. Two kids were talking to an elderly woman they had never met before, as if she were their own grandmother, calling her "Nani." It was a beautiful moment of innocent connection that transcended familiarity. I knew I had to capture it.
What caught your eye about this scene with light and shadow?
I was drawn to the stark contrast between the completely dark alley behind the old gentleman and the highly lit buildings with shadows falling on the tarmac road. That interplay of light and darkness created a dramatic, almost cinematic atmosphere that I had to capture.
Walk us through your editing process for a before-and-after transformation.
First, I converted the photo to monochrome to emphasize texture and emotion. Then I applied optical corrections like cropping and geometry adjustments to refine the composition. Finally, I used extensive masking to bring out the details and create the final look. The goal was to enhance the mood without losing the authenticity of the moment.
Why did you choose this unique perspective for the Taj Mahal shot?
I wanted to capture a vertical lines-oriented composition of the gates of the Taj Mahal. This perspective emphasizes the grandeur and symmetry of the architecture, offering a fresh take on a subject that's been photographed countless times.
What narrative did you aim to convey with this photo series?
This series focuses on the everyday struggles of rickshaw pullers. Through these images, I wanted to highlight their resilience and the unseen labor that keeps our cities moving. Each frame tells a part of their story—the exhaustion, the determination, and the quiet dignity of their work.
Contact and Follow
Email: visualsbybiryani@gmail.com
Instagram: @visualsbybiryani
Portfolio: https://visualsbybiryani.myportfolio.com/
