Arshaful Arefin: From Fine Arts to Capturing the Soul of the Streets

Showcase is an effort by 58Miles to bring beautiful journeys of some of the amazing photographers of India & aboard . You will read about their journey , techniques , style and can see the outcome of their art in stunning frames. We asked them some questions to deep dive in to space and here we are....

Introducing 58Miles showcase Arshaful Arefin from Dhaka.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in photography?

 I purchased my first camera in 2010 while I was studying Fine Arts. Initially, I bought the camera to capture high-resolution images of my artwork, but over time I became more intrigued by photography as an art form. In 2013, I challenged myself to do a 365 photography project to motivate myself to use my camera more often. This project deepened my passion for photography, and I found it to be the most enjoyable form of creative expression. Upon completing the 365 photography project, I decided to dedicate all my time and effort to photography. 

What inspires your photography, and how do you choose your subjects or themes?

I am most inspired to do street photography by the prospect of capturing genuine, unfiltered moments and people. I am fascinated by the thought that these fleeting moments are unique and will never occur again. My priority is to find good lighting. I have a strong passion for light, and I believe that good light can transform an ordinary scene into something extraordinary. I spend a lot of time scouting locations and looking for streets with interesting lights and backgrounds to help me compose a scene. Then, I patiently wait for someone to pass by. When choosing my subjects, I search for expressive faces and observe whether the light complements them. Most importantly, I strive to capture the emotions and expressions of the people I photograph.

 

What has been your most memorable photography project or shoot, or any inspiring story around it, and why?

This particular photograph holds deep significance in my photography journey. It portrays a woman in Nepal, captured in the tranquil moments of early morning while managing her shop.
When I looked at this photo again, I felt overwhelmed with emotion. The woman's expressive face conveyed deep feelings that resonated with me. Her longing for a quiet moment before the hustle and bustle of the day was evident. Her expression served as a powerful reminder of how photography captures raw emotions and experiences.

What is your photography kit ? or we would say, what is in your camera bag?

My camera Nikon D850, NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G, NIKKOR 105mm f/1.4E ED and NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G lens.

What advice would you give to photographers who are just starting out and looking to make a name for themselves?

If photography is your passion, dive into it wholeheartedly. Follow your instincts and let your creativity lead the way. Don’t worry too much about what others think; mistakes are part of learning and offer valuable opportunities for growth both personally and artistically. Photography is a highly personal art form, with everyone bringing their unique perspective. There’s no definitive right or wrong approach—just your own. While drawing inspiration from others is valuable, it’s essential to forge your unique artistic path showcasing your individuality and vision.

You can find Ashraful Arefin on :

Instagram : ashrafularefin