Subhra K. Bhattacharya
Introducing Subhra K. Bhattacharya, a visionary photographer whose passion for capturing the essence of beauty led him on a journey from shyly photographing nature to becoming a prominent fashion, glamour, and portrait photographer. In this exclusive interview with The Style Researcher Magazine, Subhra shares insights into his distinctive style, love for moody photographs, and the pivotal moment that transformed his approach to photographing human subject.
Welcome, Subhra, to this exclusive interview with The Style Researcher Magazine. We’re thrilled to have you here as we delve into the fascinating world of your photography. Let’s begin by exploring the spark that ignited your interest in this captivating art form. What initially sparked your interest in photography?
Thank you for having me! I’m delighted to be part of this interview with The Style Researcher Magazine. Growing up I wanted to create art by capturing moments. I have always felt beauty around me, in nature, in objects and in people. I guess becoming a photographer has enabled me to not only record that beauty but also shape and create some of it.
How would you describe your photography style in a few words?
I love moody photographs. I also love color. I tend to use gel and sometimes underexpose my photographs. I would mostly do theme shoots based on a creative idea for my editorials. This will often involve working on mood boards and bouncing off ideas with my subjects prior to the shoot.
Can you share a memorable photography moment that had a big impact on your career?
I started my photography journey making photos of nature, landscapes, still life, macros and abstracts. I used to be shy and uncomfortable around human subjects and found photographing humans daunting. On top of that I didn’t know how to direct subjects. Nevertheless, I participated in a photography workshop which brought in models for the shoot and after a while I found that it was not so difficult after all. I guess that was a turning point in my photography career.
Do you have a favorite location or setting for your photography?
I do not. For fashion / glamour / portraiture I would often shoot in a studio though I sometimes will do an editorial shoot outside too. I also do a fair amount of wildlife photography and sometimes travel for that.
What’s your go-to camera and equipment?
I use a Sony a7RV 61 mp full frame camera body along with an assortment of Sony and Sigma lenses. For portraiture I’d usually use the Sigma FE 85mm f 1.4 lens and the Sony FE 24 mm - 70 mm f 2.8 GMII lens
What aspects of photography do you find most challenging and most rewarding?
Photographers are usually obsessed with light and I am no exception. I am always trying to capture the best light and this can be quite challenging, especially if you’re outdoors and have less control over available light. This is somewhat easier in a studio setting where I can create my own light.
As a fashion, glamour and portrait photographer my job is to show my subject in the best, the most flattering way possible. I find it very rewarding when I am able to do this.
How do you approach post-processing your images?
Retouching is mainstream now and publications as well as subjects have come to expect it. In the early days I would stay away from retouching and subjects would sometimes complain that many of their blemishes were showing in the photographs. Unless it is a specific art project where I want to show the blemishes I will nowadays retouch my photographs but I do it very lightly, mostly to flatter the subjects and never to alter any features.
Are there specific emotions or stories you aim to convey through your work?
The human form is a work of art. Creating art by depicting the human form has existed for hundreds of years, long before the advent of the camera. This form is especially beautiful when it is bare and I love to capture it in its purity. Some of the sub genres of nude photography I have worked in include fine art nude, figure study and body sculpting, nude yoga and nude maternity shoots. Each of these show the human form in a distinct emotional state. Take the example of a nude maternity shoot - nothing can be more tender, more loving than this form.
Any advice for aspiring photographers looking to develop their skills and style?
I have always learnt by studying others. I study the work of other photographers and even painters and dabble in art history too. My advice to emerging photography would be to learn the basics, study the work of others, experiment and never be afraid to find your own voice.
What’s the next project or theme you’re excited to explore in your photography?
In the next few weeks I will be doing some avant-garde fashion shoots and quite excited about it.
