In the ever-evolving realm of visual expression, photographers have consistently played a vital role in capturing the essence of a zeitgeist. Through their lens, they have skillfully documented the defining moments of history and cultural aesthetics shaping our collective memory and understanding. Now, a fresh wave of homegrown photographers has emerged, armed with their individualistic gaze and an unwavering commitment to pushing artistic boundaries. Here are some photographers on our radar who are utilizing their unique perspectives to redefine the visual language of our time.
Aleena Naqvi
Aleena is a Pakistani photographer who has lived both in the States and Lahore. She fell in love with photography through fashion and when she moved back to Pakistan, she started storytelling through a more homegrown lens working with different creatives. Her work in fashion is authentic and inviting bringing our attention to the history and 'kaarigari' of the motifs and craftsmanship of a garment. Aleena has worked with a lot of leading women designers of Pakistan that are taking charge of the narrative and are at the helm of a new movement in the representation of women's stories.
Follow Aleena here.
Chandni Dua
Chandni is a fine art photographer based out of Ahmedabad. Weaving her distinctive style into every photograph she captures, Chandni imbues her work with a fine art sensibility that transcends the boundaries of genre. Whether she's documenting a wedding, capturing a couple's tender moments, or immortalizing a portrait, her photographs exude a mesmerizing play of hues, each colour speaking volumes and evoking emotions that resonate deeply. Unafraid to challenge conventional angles, Chandni's compositions break all rules, breathing life into her subjects and inviting viewers to see beyond the surface.
Follow Chandni here.
Sourabh Basu
Sourabh is a Kolkata-based photographer who possesses a remarkable ability to manipulate light and shadows, infusing his work with a captivating allure. With an inherent understanding of the interplay between light and darkness, Sourabh masterfully crafts visuals that evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue. His distinct style breathes new life into fashion photography, as he introduces an intimate flair that sets his work apart. The resulting photographs emanate a unique fusion of elegance and raw emotion, drawing viewers into a world where fashion becomes a vehicle for storytelling.
Follow Saurabh here.
Abhishek Khedekar
Abhishek Rajaram Khedekar, a New Delhi-based photographer born in 1991 in Dapoli, possesses a rare gift for capturing a longing in his photographs that extends beyond the realm of the animate. Seamlessly blending documentary approaches with surrealist techniques, particularly collage, Abhishek's work serves as a powerful medium for amplifying the voices of those on the periphery of society. Through the integration of fictive elements, he challenges prevailing narratives, inviting viewers to question their own perceptions and assumptions. His projects are often rooted in extensive historical research and seamlessly incorporate archival imagery, adding layers of depth and meaning to his visual storytelling.
Follow Abhishek here.
Karthik Shetty
Karthik Shetty, a talented multidisciplinary artist hailing from Mangalore, India, channels his profound love for nature and art into his captivating photographic endeavours. With a warm and soft visual style, Karthik breathes life into his portraits, infusing them with a sense of drama and depth. His artistic repertoire extends beyond photography, encompassing fine art, fashion photography, cinematography, and more. Through collaborations with global brands, Karthik's work transcends mere visuals to create an immersive sensory experience, unveiling unseen stories and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.
Follow Karthik here.