Emotional and vulnerable experiences have shaped my photography journey. Initially, I struggled with writing and understanding a new great range of subjects , but the camera became a powerful tool for expression, allowing me to explore emotions that words couldn’t capture. It helped me freeze not just moments but also the feelings and thoughts that exist between them. Photography is more than just capturing moments—it’s about uncovering the inner thoughts and emotions we often can't express. Over time, I've realized that it is a visual experience and a process of unlocking hidden parts of myself. Through self-portraiture, therapy, and journaling, I've learned that the camera can express what words often fail to convey.
The Power of Self-Portraiture
Self-portraiture has long been a medium for exploring and expressing identity. Influenced by artists like Cindy Sherman and Rachel Louise Brown and many more, I learned that presenting oneself on camera isn’t only about the physical appearance but also about revealing deeper emotional truths. This practice continues to challenge my self-perception and allows me to capture not just how I look, but how I feel. Embracing vulnerability through self-portraiture has transformed my understanding of self-expression.
The Connection to Body Language
Growing up, I found my first form of self-expression in dance, particularly through Bharatnatyam, a classical South Indian dance form. Though I no longer practice it as much, its influence on my creative process remains strong. Bharatnatyam taught me how movement can communicate powerful emotions, especially through hand gestures (mudras) and facial expressions.
This connection between movement, body language, and emotional expression plays a crucial role in my photography. I aim to convey stories through the body’s language, its posture, gestures, and expression just as in dance , to capture emotions that speak to the soul.
Nature as an Emotional Language
When I capture nature, whether it’s a drooping flower or a twisting tree, I see it as an emotional language—a reflection of how we, too, express and hold ourselves. The subtle way nature reacts to its environment mirrors human emotion. This view allows me to turn natural moments into metaphors for inner states, which brings a fresh perspective into my photography. Everything around us has something to teach, and through photography, I discover new perspectives and emotions. Just like a camera works, I give exposure to those things that challenge me to see them in their true light, allowing me to practice acceptance and reflection, which helps me grow.
Vulnerability Journey
Vulnerability has not always been easy, but I’ve come to see it as a gift. It’s a powerful tool for understanding and growth, both in my work and in life. The willingness to be vulnerable has deepened my creative process, helping me express things I otherwise might have kept hidden. I’ve learned that embracing vulnerability is where true transformation lies.
This ties back to my previous blog, where I discussed the importance of being aware of our surroundings—how they inspire and nurture our well-being. Sitting with raw emotions and feelings is essential. Not everyone will resonate with this approach, and that’s okay. For me, it’s been transformative. It has opened new pathways in my creative work, allowing me to express the deeper layers of self.
Awakening: A Personal Exploration
"Awakening" was one of my first major projects where I combined all aspects of photography I had explored: portraiture, self-portraiture, nature, body language, and performance. Inspired by my mother, who taught me to live openly and embrace vulnerability, this project marked the beginning of my deeper exploration of my own emotions and identity.
It’s an ongoing process, one that continuously teaches me about the power of vulnerability in my work and personal growth. Through Awakening, I’ve learned that each photograph is a reflection of that journey—capturing not just moments, but the layers of emotion and self-expression behind them.
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