Capturing Kerala: Sreeranj Sreedhar's Transition from Corporate Life to Masterful Street Photography

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 Sreeranj Sreedhar from Kerala.

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

I am a Street & Documentary Photographer based in Kerala. I conduct Street Photography workshops and Photo tours promoting the festivals and culture of Kerala. I used to live in Dubai for 30 years and worked in a Corporate firm as an HR & Admin Manager and in 2018, I quit my job and settled in Kerala and have been doing full time photography ever since.

I got into photography at a very early age and used to shoot film using my dad's camera, but those were just my family and friends pictures. But It was in 2010 that I tapped into my creativity when I got a DSLR camera and ever since I have been deeply involved in photography.

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

My inspiration comes from many things. The masters who have produced great works, the people I meet everyday during my shoot and the contemporary artists who produce wonderful works that make me learn new ideas and approach to evolve my seeing.
For my street photography approach, I don't choose any particular subjects or themes, I just walk with an open mind waiting to capture the surprises that happen in front of me. Whereas for my documentary shoot, I go to festivals or cultural events to document them as a photo story that has many factors determining the subjects, location, light and nature of events.

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

My most memorable project was my 365 days project of shooting the streets everyday for 365 days only using my iPhone which I did while in Dubai. This was done in 2016 and it was part of my learning experience in street photography, to practice all what I learned and to evolve my seeing in this approach. This project was a turning point in my career as it gave me many prestigious connections through publications, awards and getting invited to do talks based on the work.

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

I carry very little gear in my bag, hence the size is always very light and small. I shoot with a Fuji XT5 camera and only 2 lenses 16-55 and 18 mm depending on the type of shoot. I also carry a Godox Flash.

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

Learn the art properly by attending a workshop from the photographers you are inspired by, attend talks and study the works of masters. This will make your foundation proper and understanding in this art well. It doesn't happen overnight and you need to take your time to grow. Initially copy the styles but later you make your own voice into your works that will stand out. Success doesn't come immediately, it takes a lot of hard work to make it happen. Understand this well.

You can find Sreeranj Sreedhar  on :

 Instagram : sreeranj