WallMag: Tell us about your first introduction to photography. What drew you into this world?

My father had one National 35 camera with a fixed 35mm lens. My dad used to take a lot of pictures with this camera when we were out for vacation. That attracted me very much. I was surprised to see the print copies, and that strikes me most, and I started capturing from that camera.

WallMag: How would you describe your photographic vision? What kind of feel do you try to create in your photos?

It's impossible to categorize good photography (or photographers) through simple genres. My work encompasses human interest, travel, portrait, and editorial photography, and I hope, is more accurately bound by a common style and patient approach. I believe street photography is more successful when it works as a social documentary and when it shows the empathy between the photographer and her subjects.

WallMag: What do you like most about being a photographer?

Inner peace.

I get to meet interesting people from all walks of life and get to make images that reveal their character. I get to visit interesting locations, and my camera opens the door to those unknown places.

WallMag: Can you share your achievements in life regarding photography?

I am able to capture moments, and I think that is the best achievement.

Apart from this, yes, I have received more than 120 Awards from different parts of the world and also received distinctions from FIAP and FIP.

WallMag: If you were told that you could only keep one camera and lens combination, what would it be and why?

It would always be a Canon 80D (Currently I have) and 10-18 Canon Lens. It will help me not only to capture the human but, also the surrounding from where he/she belongs. I want to capture the essence of his/her existence.

WallMag: Can you talk us through the process of capturing your images? What preparation or equipment is involved in the photography of this type, and how much planning goes into each project? Can you tell us about your gear and drone setup?

Deciding which lens to use is one of the most important factors for street photography. In my case, I generally use 10-18 and 18-135 Canon lenses. On a bright sunny day, a good place to start is around f/16 with an ISO between 200-400.

Using a wide-angle lens enables you to get nice and close to your subjects. The advantage of the wide-angle gives the viewer a sense of being there in the moment. You’ll also blend in with the crowd as part of the environment rather than standing out across the street with a long lens. Night photography in the city is a great opportunity for unique images. It’s not as easy as shooting during the day; you will need to be mindful of low shutter speeds to avoid blur and use your ISO and aperture to compensate for low light.

WallMag: What have been your top 3 creative photographs so far, and why do you consider them as your best images?

Image Title: Blessed child

Faith is a much bigger matter. Man wants to hold on to this belief when everything is over. His faith is in God. He thinks he is blessed. Here the child is the representation of faith and blessings.

Image Title: Creator

While clicking this image I was confused about the definition of a Creator here, the man who is making the idol or the Goddess herself.

The play of light and shadow here attracts me very much. The tireless work of the

people and their perfection give me the courage to do things in critical situations.

It is one of the largest idol-making hubs in India, and those creators have been exporting idols worldwide since the British era.

Image Title: Freedom

The saint is free from everything. He is from a free society, he is from free life. He is as free as a bird. This is the main idea of ​​this film.

WallMag: Can you share a photo of yours that holds a deep story/ creative concept behind it?

Image Title: Hiding the pain

Many people like to put on a mask, but there are many stories hidden behind that mask. That story is often painful and dark.

WallMag: As a photographer, how far do you think participating in awards/contests is important for a photography career?

I think to pursue your hobby or passion it is a good practice to participate in Awards/Contests. It helps not only to become a good photographer it also helps learn more about the thing.

WallMag: What are your thoughts on raw images vs images that have been worked on (Photoshop)?

In cases minor color corrections required and for creative photography, the addition of a few elements can enhance the storytelling. But too much photoshop involvement is not required for street photography. Minor color correction does the job.

WallMag: Please share an image of your photography gear.

WallMag: In a street photo, do you think that light contrasts are important to tell a story, or are they just an aesthetic aspect?

All different flavors and colors of shooting can fall under the street photography genre.

In street photography, your aim will be not to achieve a nice exposure for your whole scene, but only for a specific part of your scene which has the most light. This means you will want to set your exposure for the brightest part of your scene which you’re probably going to be using as your focal point when your subject is in the frame.

WallMag: Taking a shot in the street could be difficult at times; dealing with people’s reactions or making sure it is not invasive in the various situations that could arise is not always easy. What is your approach in these circumstances?

For a Human-centric shot, I think go where the locals go. Search for the places where they work and where they hang-out to get the best shots. Starting a conversation can melt ice and get into the action. For market areas that are loaded with real people who are friendly, photo-worthy, and informative.

Many people are uncomfortable with having their photo taken. Distract them from the presence of the camera by talking with them and get a natural shot.

Also, a local area survey is much needed before taking any shot.

WallMag: What works more effectively for you, imagination, or inspiration?

Imagination.

Powerful ideas and emotions can be portrayed through the simplest of scenes.

WallMag: What subjects inspire you and push you to look for the shot in the city where you live or in the places you are frequent?

People as always. I love shooting the streets because it gets me motivated, meeting interesting people, and seeing everyday life from a fresh perspective. That’s what inspires me to do what I do.

WallMag: What makes a street photo expressive? Can you recognize, when you’re on the street, all details that can make a simple photoshoot a good photograph?

Street photography requires practice, and the more you get out there, the more your eye will develop, and your confidence will grow. Street photography is spontaneous and waits for no one. It’s a discipline you must practice to make perfect.

WallMag: Could you please describe your experience of participating in WallMag Creative photography awards 2020 and marking your presence as top 2nd winner? What tips would you like to give to upcoming participants?

This was an excellent platform to showcase Creative photographs. WallMag gave us the opportunity, and I am really thankful to them.

No such tips for the upcoming participants but, keep your eyes open and Find an interesting spot to sit with your camera and spend a lot of time. Try something unique and portray some stories.

You can follow Subhra Roy Chowdhury on Instagram or visit his Website to stay updated with his work.

You can also have a look at his Winning Photography Submission at WallMag Creative Photography Awards 2020.