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In addition to the exclusive cover story and the interviews of eminent photographers, every issue features a female photographer through our special section ‘Female in Focus’. We have in-depth reviews of the latest photography related equipment and step-by-step tutorials ranging from postproduction to shooting

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Frame

Contents

COVER STORY

Danish Husain

INTERVIEW

Navin Vatsa

Maoz Inon

PHOTO FEATURE

Rajesh Singh

FEMALE IN FOCUS

Gulmehar Dhillon

REVIEW

M.Zuiko Digital ED 90 MM f/3.5

Macro IS Pro lens

CREDITS

EDITORIAL

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Idris Ahmed

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

DESIGN

Amit Kumar Gangal

COVER STORY

Photography - Idris Ahmed

Retouching - Amit Kumar Gangal

PROOFREADING

Antasa Vairagya

Ujjayant Sinha

PRODUCTION TEAM

Amit Kumar Gangal

Antasa Vairagya

Ujjayant Sinha

Shot at Studio Photocommune Published

Antasa is an academician who teaches Sociology in a reputed college within University of Delhi. While teaching she realized her passion for travelling and explored photography during her trips. At present, she is engaged in research on Dressing. Currently she is an active member of Photocommune and a contributor with the Magazine FRAME.

Rajesh is an eminent photographer and documentary filmmaker from Varanasi. He gained popularity through his spectacular images of the burning ghats of Banaras, like never seen before. His photographs are statements to sensitize his audience about the underprivileged and marginalized sections of the society. His fascination about capturing the not so usual made him do several hard-hitting documentaries, amongst which the Bharani festival of Kerala is featured in this issue.

Ujjayant Sinha is a data scientist and an avid amateur photographer. In 2022, he ventured into the realm of fiction writing. The Unconscious Drifter: A Book of Dreams is his upcoming debut work, reflecting a fusion of stimuli from the twists and turns of life and the surreal landscapes of dreams.

Gulmehar Dhillon is an independent photographer, based between New Delhi and Vancouver. Her research interests delve into the intricate crossroads of lens-based practices, methodologies and activism, embodying a conception of art as an instrument of resilience and dissent. Presently, she is a Masters candidate, specializing in Art History (Critical Curatorial Studies) at the University of British Columbia.

Why should I ask intellectuals about my origin? I am more anxious about my last limit.

Empower yourself so much that God himself consults thee, even before crafting your destiny.

As an artist, one should know one’s limits and within that, find the possibility of limitless-ness. Believing in oneself is important, so much so that no technological advancement poses itself as a threat, rather it becomes an opportunity.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in photography is like an untamed energy and the only way to harness its potential is by understanding its magnitude and limitations. Photographers instead of being skeptical about the future i.e., whether it will replace humans/cameras/photographers, should instead focus on utilizing it to accelerate their workflow, to enhance the shooting and post-processing experience. You can either ignore and be left behind or embrace the technology and be empowered. I personally feel, that the future of photography belongs to the seamless blend of technological innovation and human imagination.

In this latest edition, we are pleased to present a cover story on Danish Husain, one of the finest actors of the Indian Film Industry and the founder of The Hoshruba Repertory theatre company. I am sure that his story will inspire you to follow your heart and pursue it with passion. Additionally, this issue offers you a tour to the revered ‘Holy Land’ and walks you through the scenic lanes of the Galilee region in Israel, as we explore the ‘Jesus Trail’ with Maoz Inon.

Amongst the other highlights of this issue are three celebrated and award winning photographers. Firstly, we have Navin Vatsa, who takes us from the peace and calm of rural India to the vibrancy of cities. Next, Rajesh captures the colourful vibes of the Bharani festival in his peculiar monochromatic style. Lastly, our Female in Focus Gulmehar, takes us back to our haunted history through her protest journal based on Sikh riots of 1984.

This issue begins our journey into the world of macro photography with an interesting review of OM Systems 90mm Macro Lens, which also features images by India’s leading macro photographers.

We sincerely hope you enjoy this issue.

Happy reading!

Idris Ahmed

Featuring

DANISH HUSAIN

By Ujjayant Sinha

Danish Husain - theatre director, big screen actor, poet, dastango - a captivating performer who weaves stories with the power of his words leaving audiences spellbound.

“For 30 years, nobody said a good word for me, ever, and the moment I stepped on stage, everyone thought I was a great actor”, said Danish nonchalantly, as he recalled how he stumbled into the world of theatre.

“I wasn’t someone with a particular talent, like a painter, writer or musician, and I was getting bored working at a bank. Then I remembered that I had enjoyed performing in a play back in school or college, and thought that maybe this is something I can try out. So, for 3 years, I pursued theatre alongside my career at the bank. And I gradually realised that this is what I enjoy”, he continued, and the rest is history.

Since then, Danish has embarked on a remarkable journey, establishing his own theatre company based in Mumbai called The Hoshruba Repertory. He has also showcased his acting prowess in several notable feature film such as Dhobhi Ghat, Peepli Live, Newton and Soorma, as well as on OTT series such as Bard of Blood and Taj Mahal 1989. In addition to his acting endeavors, Danish has also played an active role in revitalizing the Urdu storytelling tradition of Dastangoi, and even created Qissebaazi, a multilingual storytelling platform.

Undoubtedly, Danish’s repertoire spans across a multitude of performing arts forms, reflecting a rich and diverse range of experiences. Yet, he possesses a remarkably straightforward approach to finding common ground among them all. “I am a performer. Storytelling is what I am interested in,” he states matter-of-factly. “Now regardless of whether I choose to recite from memory, or employ the medium of theatre, with co-actors, props, and lighting, or even delve into the realm of cinema, ultimately my goal remains the same - simply telling a story.”

Danish meticulously engineers his performances to create a controlled illusion. I watched him get ready for a photoshoot, and while this was not exactly a live performance, his undeniable prowess was there to behold. Starting with a direct gaze into the lens, a subtle twitch of a muscle later, his expressions effortlessly transformed, taking on a new and captivating direction.

“As an actor, I have to artificially engineer that, because nothing is happening, nobody is saying anything. I imagine the situation unfolding and use that imagination as a trigger,” he explains between shots. “That’s where the actor’s craft comes in. How do I create in my imagination a trigger which is as powerful as a real-life one? As an actor, I need to have the skill to imagine it at the level that my body physically starts responding. How else would you know what I am thinking about? Obviously through my expressions, body language and the non-verbal aspects of communication.”

As I observed him during the shoot, I could not help but wonder how it would be like to see the man perform live. It became apparent that his renown as a performer stems from his profound understanding of the intricate relationship between language and emotion. Even when showcasing his artistry as a dastango to audiences unfamiliar with Urdu, he effortlessly captivates and entertains, proving that language barriers are no obstacle to enjoying his shows. Danish himself affirms, “I have had some great shows in Bombay where people do not really speak Urdu. But while listening to the dastan, they are in tune with the story. They laugh and enjoy themselves.”

He recalls a conversation with a filmmaker friend after a show, asking him how it was. The friend mentioned, “Sir I had trouble adjusting for the first 5-10 minutes. You were speaking Urdu and I couldn’t understand any of it. But then, you immersed yourself in the story with such vibrant energy. As you dived into the narrative, we were swept along, soaring with you.”

Managing a diverse audience is nonetheless a challenge, and keeping them engaged is paramount. In today’s attention-based economy filled with distractions, Danish emphasizes the need to ensure the audience remains captivated. “My only purpose is to ensure that the audience’s attention doesn’t waver. If they aren’t enjoying themselves and running away from the story, then what will I do?” he says.

To Danish, concerns about his own performance or whether the audience will like him are trivial. Rather, he chooses to direct his effort towards reeling in his audience. “Often the audience hasn’t experienced a dastan before and may wonder if they will enjoy the performance. So, I need to break the ice somehow,” he explains. “I warm up those who are already sold on me because enthusiasm is infectious. We learn by imitation, observing and responding to others. I know that five people are sold on me, and so I need to engage with them first. Then their energy will start rubbing off on the others and slowly, they will also get sucked into the performance.”

But this is only the beginning and Danish has to keep the momentum going. “Sometimes I divert the conversation and take it elsewhere. There are moments when I drift away from the story for a bit and then return to it 10 minutes later. When you’re told just half a story, you feel very unsettled because there is no closure. However, at this point, we come full circle, back to the story, and that’s when the audience goes wow.”

“Knowing where to pause, how much to speak, how much to explain, how much to leave unexplained, and how much to leave unsaid, allowing the audience to discover on their own, becomes highly important.”

Although Danish has garnered critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase over such an extended period of time, he does not attach himself to emotions like feeling pride or the desire for perfection. “I was able to give a performance that the audience enjoyed, and didn’t make any mistake. So, my first reaction is relief, and then happiness, like a job well done, satisfied. The next thought is the hope it repeats again.”

He has come a long way and has shown no sign of slowing down. He continues to act and direct, forever reading, writing, understanding. Keeping up with the continuous learning curve in his craft has brought him to where he is today.

But it takes a different level of passion and perseverance for an artist of his calibre to keep charging ahead. He simplifies his philosophy again, saying, “If a person who has always been talentless finds something worthwhile, then they will grab it because it’s the lifesaving rope that will keep them from drowning. So, I found my rope and have been moving forward holding on to it.”

He pauses to chuckle. “It was a small rope, but I grabbed it. With time, I realised that even if I let it go, I will still be able to stand on my own. I have reached a point where the river no longer feels deep, and I don’t need to fear drowning anymore.”

Photography - Idris Ahmed

Retouching - Amit Kumar Gangal

Shot at Studio Photocommune

In Conversation

NAVIN VATSA with Idris Ahmed

“I love portraiture with an uncomplicated style that also reflects a soulful mood and a deep human connection”.

Navin! Could you please tell our readers about what motivated you to take a shift from academics to photography? What were the challenges you encountered during this transition?

Navin - Since a young age, art and drawing have been my innate gifts, earning me numerous awards in school. But it was considered an extracurricular activity due to limited exposure. After completing my Masters in Computer Applications (MCA), I worked as a computer teacher and later as Joint Registrar at a university. Despite my job, I continued sketching real-life scenes while travelling during my free time or at night.

In 1997, I bought a point and shoot camera and captured family moments. A serious accident in 2010 fractured both my legs, leaving me bedridden for four months. During this time, I reflected on my life and felt a profound calling towards photography. Despite being a single father, I gathered the courage to leave my job, and for the past ten years, I have dedicated myself wholeheartedly to this art form.

Embracing this sudden shift in my 40s may seem like madness, especially considering the financial insecurities that come with it. However, I have grown to love it, as it allows me to create captivating stories. All it takes is self-belief to overcome the challenges that arise in this field and in life.

Your admirers would love to know the approach and process that you adopt in order to capture such beautiful images?

Navin - Creating art, is not a quick process that unfolds within a day, a month, or even a year. It demands a considerable amount of time dedicated to observing the world around us, gaining a deeper understanding of our subjects and engaging in research-oriented practices that lead us in the right direction. Many photographers adopt similar approaches, but the true distinction arises when we embark on the journey of self-discovery.

Through self-awareness, our images reflect our unique personalities, becoming representations of our individual identities. Art becomes an extension of ourselves, and our photographs encapsulate who we are as artists. This deeper connection sets us apart and leaves a lasting impression on viewers.

Your images have touched and inspired a lot of hearts. What or/and who have been your source(s) of inspiration?

Navin - In the artistic journey, inspiration comes from various sources, living and non-living. An open mind and receptivity to connect deeply with every element help capture the essence of our surroundings. To truly capture the essence of our surroundings, we must be prepared to exchange soulful energy with the environment in which we shoot.

Personally, I find immense joy in shooting in uncontrolled, open environments, exploring my creativity to the fullest. Each subject holds a special place in my heart and becomes a genuine source of inspiration. As I immerse myself in photography, the world becomes a boundless canvas from which I draw inspiration, translating it into my work. This exchange of energy brings my art to life, reflecting my passion and dedication for the craft.

You have been a recipient of various reputed awards in photography. Is there an award(s) that is/are more close to your heart? And why?

Navin - Awards and recognition on national and international platforms are significant milestones in my journey. Since 2016, I’ve been honoured by renowned organizations like National Geographic, SWPA, Camarena, Sony India, MSPF, and HIPA. These accolades bring encouragement and a sense of responsibility to my art. Among them, I’m especially proud to be a two-time HIPA winner. However, one particular moment stands out. Last year, securing the 3rd position in the Nature category at HIPA with “Nature’s Warning Call” was an uplifting experience, artistically and financially. It reinforced my passion for photography and validated my dedication and effort.

These achievements are not merely shiny trophies; they represent the growth and progress I have made as an artist. They motivate me to push my creative boundaries further and continue capturing the real world around me.

You have made a lot of images over the years on the banks of the Yamuna River. What keeps bringing you back to that particular place?

Navin - Natural resources, like the Yamuna River, fascinate me for their authenticity and purity. There’s something uniquely captivating about being in touch with the flow of water, especially during the winter season under the embrace of early morning fog. As a naturally introverted person, this environment resonates deeply with my soul. Having lived in Delhi for many years, I find myself irresistibly drawn to this location.

The sight of migratory sea gulls and human activities on the Yamuna riverbank creates a meaningful connection within me. Over the past 6-7 years, I’ve visited this place over 300 times, immersing myself in its serenity, capturing moments that evoke harmony and peace in my photography. The confluence of nature’s beauty and human life here inspires my passion for storytelling through art.

Some of your best artworks are shot during inclement weather. What are the technical challenges that you face and how do you overcome those?

Navin - Listen to your inner voice when encountering environments that align with your mood and personality. For me, early morning low light, cloudy weather, and winter fog hold special significance, creating a profound connection with nature through my lens. Despite technical challenges like noise and grain in low light, I embrace imperfections as they add charm and character to my work

Venturing into places enshrouded in heavy fog can be daunting and even risky at times. Yet, the allure of capturing ethereal and mysterious scenes pushes me to take such calculated risks. It is through these experiences that I find both personal growth and artistic fulfilment. The journey may be demanding, but the rewards are immeasurable, making it all worthwhile.

Do you consider social media to be an important aspect of photography? How has it impacted your artistic process or career?

Navin - Today, every form of media comes with its advantages and disadvantages. It is essential to use such platforms judiciously, otherwise, they can consume your time, energy and inner peace. Unfortunately, a significant portion of social media is saturated with content creators who produce meaningless and misleading content. It is crucial to be discerning to avoid falling into their traps.

On a positive note, social media has been productive in my life, helping me gradually reach an international platform. Notably, I caught the attention of National Geographic and became a contributing photographer for its Your Shot community from India. Over the past 5-6 years, I’ve received rewarding offers from prestigious firms and organizations, making my journey affirming and fulfilling.

I’m grateful for the opportunities that social media has provided me, allowing my passion to be recognized and appreciated by a wider audience. Yet I strive to maintain a balance and not let the allure of social media overshadow the essence of my art and the meaningful connections I make through it.

Is there that one picture that is closest to your heart? Your admirers would love to know the thought process, emotions and ideas behind that capture

Navin - As an artist, selecting a single image from thousands is challenging. There are many special ones close to my heart. It’s an ongoing process, and I believe the best is yet to come.

My image creation process starts with taking in every detail of the scene, immersing myself in the mood and atmosphere. In that moment, I allow myself to be completely lost, forgetting everything else and becoming one with my composition.

Every image I create reflects my journey, capturing both the world’s beauty and my deep connection with it. It’s a continuous exploration of self-expression, and as I continue moving forward, I eagerly await the images that are yet to come, knowing that each one will tell a unique story and carry a piece of my soul within it.

AI has entered full-fledged into the photography arena which has been a source of insecurities amongst some photographers lately. What is your take on it?

Navin - AI-generated art should not be considered photography, which is a distinct visual medium that relies on a camera capturing live moments from the external world onto a sensor, be it film or digital. This involves the direct interaction of the photographer with their surroundings.

On the other hand, AI relies on analysing vast amounts of random input from images, producing fascinating but imaginative digital art, not genuine representations of reality.

It’s important not to feel any sense of insecurity about real photography in the face of AI-generated art. Photography captures authenticity and spontaneity, driven by a photographer’s creative vision and personal connection to subjects. Meanwhile, AI-generated art showcases the power of technology and the potential for creative exploration within the digital realm. While it may spark curiosity, it can’t replace photography’s genuine essence and emotional depth conveyed by human artists.

We have seen some amazing pictures from your current series “Brick Factory”. Can you talk more about that project?

Navin - Adopting a humanistic approach in photography is both challenging and rewarding, preserving the dignity of human presence while capturing truths with sensitivity and patience. Over the past two years, I embarked on a journey to create visual stories from a brick kiln in my hometown of Bihar. I strove for utmost realism, capturing each step of the brick-making process with authenticity while infusing my artistic perspective, allowing viewers to sense the same energy and depth that I experienced through each frame.

My experiences have been incredibly meaningful, connecting me to the subjects and their stories. I’m working towards crafting a comprehensive narrative for an upcoming photo book.

I want to honestly portray the human condition, celebrating the resilience, dignity, and essence of the people I encountered. Through photography, I believe we can bridge gaps, foster empathy, and inspire positive change.

What would be your advice to those who are considering making the transition to pursuing photography as a profession?

Navin - While pursuing photography, lessons learned from mistakes are invaluable. Therefore, continually learn and grow, honing your skills and developing the art of truly seeing the world around you. Avoid getting distracted by the noise of social media and focus on your craft.

Believe in yourself and have faith in your artistic abilities. Draw upon the experiences you have gathered since your childhood, listen to your heart and use your intellect to refine and excel in this challenging world of photography.

Remember, there will be obstacles along the way, but stay determined. Your journey may be arduous, but hold onto the belief that you will find your path eventually. And in your success, don’t forget to appreciate those who have directly or indirectly supported you throughout this artistic journey.