"In Focus: Nikunj Gawande's Path from Hobbyist to Professional Photographer"

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 photographer Nikunj Gawande from Mumbai

 

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

I got started in photography almost by accident. Growing up, I always had a fascination with visual arts, but it wasn’t until I Photoshop that I really dove into photography. I remember the excitement of clicking the photos in latest purchased phone by my dad back in 2016 

Initially, it was a hobby—I’d take his phone everywhere, snapping photos of my friends, family, and the places I visited. I loved the idea of capturing fleeting moments and preserving them. I spent hours poring over photography books and tutorials, learning about composition, lighting, and the nuances of different techniques.

Eventually, what started as a casual interest turned into a passion. I also started sharing my work online and participating in local photography competitions. Each project and feedback from others helped me grow and discover my unique style.

Today, photography is not just a hobby but a significant part of my life and career. It’s amazing to see how far I’ve come from those early days of experimenting with a phone camera.

 

 

 

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

 

My photography style is inspired by the beauty of moments and the stories they tell. I often find inspiration in nature, landscapes, and the places I encounter. For me, it’s about capturing the essence of a scene or a place, rather than just taking a picture.

Choosing subjects and themes often starts with what resonates with me at a particular moment. Sometimes it’s a spontaneous decision based on a sudden burst of inspiration, like a stunning sunset or an intriguing street scene. I also draw a lot from stories and concepts that intrigue me. I am interested in how different cultures celebrate traditions, leading me to document those events and rituals.

Ultimately, it’s about following what sparks my curiosity and resonates with my creative sensibilities. This keeps my work fresh and deeply personal, allowing me to explore and express differently.

 

 

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

In 2018, as I was just beginning my journey into DSLR photography, I attended a group photowalk at Versova Beach organised via Instagram. The event started off as a collective endeavour, but about an hour in, participants scattered, each pursuing their own photographic interests.

During this time, I encountered a young boy who immediately captivated my attention. He was incredibly talkative and curious, asking me about my camera and various aspects of photography. His enthusiasm was infectious as he eagerly posed for my lens, offering a range of expressive and playful stances.

Inspired by the moment, I created a series of images with the boy & rustic boats which are scattered along the beach. The resulting photographs captured not only the serene beauty of the setting but also the spirited personality of the young subject.

As the day unfolded, I was joined by two other photographers from the event. We collectively engaged with the boy, taking the opportunity to show him how to operate a DSLR and share our passion for photography. It was heartwarming to see his excitement as he learned the basics of capturing images and discovering a new hobby.

This experience was particularly memorable as it not only allowed me to create a meaningful photographic series but also provided an opportunity to inspire and mentor a budding young enthusiast. The intersection of our creative paths that day left a lasting impression on both me and the young boy.

 

 

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

 

1. Camera Body:

• Sony A7iii 
• Fujifilm XE-4
• PENTAX K100

 

2. Lenses:

• Sigma 28-45mm f/1.8(SONY)
• Sony 50mm f/1.8(SONY)
• Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8(FUJI)
• TTatisans 27mm f/2.8(FUJI)

 

3. Lights:

• Godox AD100 pro
• Godox V1 Flash

 

4. Extras:

• Batteries
• Memory cards
• Card reader
• Data Cables

 

 

 

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

 

Starting out in photography can be exciting but mastering the technical knowledge is certainly most important eg: exposure control, composition and other fundamentals. Experiment with various types of photography As you identify your preferred style or subject matter, work on developing a signature look that sets you apart. Enjoy the process of creating art and most importantly create for yourself not for the audience.

 

 

You can find Nikunj Gawande on :

Instagram : @_nik_unj_