Selection Stories
Sourendu Nanda has been working as a professional photographer for a brand for quite some time. In his own words, photography was initially his Plan B for financial freedom, and he has been managing it exceptionally well.
In today’s conversation, we’ll be discussing many aspects of photography that might help you improve your understanding of the craft. That’s the purpose of this conversation, and Sourendu was happy to share his insights for the same.
Previously, I had another conversation on photography with a non-professional photographer. I’ve included the link to that discussion below.
So, let’s get started!
Q1) What’s the most critical aspect of capturing a great photo—lighting, subject, or timing?
Sourendu: Most important thing is emotion. But in these three option I choose timing.
Q2. Do you see the camera as just a tool or an extension of your personality?
Sourendu: Not just a tool but it’s an important tool. But after all it’s a tool.
Q3. How did you know that this was what you wanted to do or continue advancing in? How did you recognize the spark?
Sourendu: No such spark in my life, never thought it can be a profession, just perusing financial freedom in plan B. If needed I can change my profession again.
Q4. How many hours do you usually sleep?
Sourendu: Around 5 hours.
Q5. What does perfect photo editing mean to you, and what’s your process?
Sourendu: You can’t use the word “perfect” for this industry. Instead, “good” editing means making sure that most people can easily understand the message you want to convey.
Q6. Is formal education in photography necessary, or can one succeed through self-learning and practice?
Sourendu: Formal or self-education doesn’t really matter; what’s important is learning and practice. But as I mentioned earlier, no art is perfect. You have to keep improving, photograph by photograph.
Q7. How important is networking for photographers, and what’s the best way to connect with industry professionals?
Sourendu: It depends. If a photographer focuses on a specific niche, like macro product photography, water droplets, sports, news agencies, or teaching, they can work independently without much external help and still establish themselves in a good position.
However, for fields that require teamwork—such as wedding photography, advertising, films, or campaign shoots—networking is essential. Building connections with other professionals in the industry is crucial for growth and opportunities.
Nowadays, one of the best ways to network and connect with industry professionals is through Instagram.
Q8. What’s the role of social media platforms like Instagram for a photographer’s career, and how can they use it effectively?
Sourendu: It’s just a digital marketing tool—it matters, but it’s not the most important thing. You need to market yourself as effectively as possible. However, it’s equally important to maintain a strong relationship with your clients after the sale, and that’s something social media alone can’t provide.
Sourendu: 3.5 liter on an average.
Q11. What is your biggest realization so far?
Sourendu: Everyone will defeat you until you defeat yourself every day.
Q12. One advice you would give to a young person starting their career?
Sourendu: Create a flowchart outlining the steps between where you are and where you want to be. Then, relax, be patient, and follow the process. Continuously refine and improve your flowchart as needed.
Q13. How do you perceive the concept of death?
Sourendu: It’s a deadline of everything you want to do in your life.
———–Thank You———
–
