Young professionals : Impacting as photographers

World Photo Day observed on 19 August is a global event that aspires to create positive change in the world through photography. It is widely believed that photography has the power to inspire our communities positively. This week, young professionals in the field open our eyes to the possibilities of photography and the impact they have as photographers.

Shyama Goohee : “Creating awareness through my pictures”

Shyama states that photography is all about treasuring moments and the ability to tell a story without saying a word. “Photography has always held an important role in society’s translation and understanding of specific global events. It helps increase awareness of issues around the world. People can be in any part of the world and know exactly what is happening on the other side of the world through media and photography helps you have a clear vision of it. It helps us with a better understanding of facts.”

As a photographer, Shyama uses her camera as a tool of exploration. Through photography, she imparts positive vibes in her surroundings. “I just want people to smile and have a more positive approach when they look at my pictures. Through pictures, I try to create awareness against ill treatment of cats as well as on healthy eating. Many people consider cats as being nasty and ominous but it is not true. I try to portray the bright side of cats so that they are well treated.”

Shyama, who is also into body building and fitness, depicts another perception of food though her pictures. “Overeating leads to obesity but some people ignore food for fear of getting fat. I think one bite of what you like will not make you fat.  I may not influence the whole society but I know somewhere someone is smiling looking at my new pictures.”

Shivesh K Ramashir : “Promoting the love for nature”

Photography is not only having a professional camera and taking pictures and in the process, you are known as a photographer, says Shivesh. Shivesh started his career in 2013 and is now owner of SKR Design and Photography. He is a creative photographer who wants to see and showcase the world differently from his use of the camera. “I love capturing moments especially in a natural environment, photography is a never ending process in learning, we keep on learning everyday and there has been a lot of progress and improvement which help to facilitate our jobs and create awesome work. My images provide witness to the fact that photography matters, now more than ever in every possible way.” Through his images, he promotes the love for nature and this reaches out to thousands of people on social networks.

Dilesh Sharma : “Empowering the young generations through photography”

As a young child, Dilesh was very fascinated by his father who is a photographer.  He feels blessed to have experienced the era of the Negatives where it was important to choose the correct reel and the number of photos be it 12, 24 or 36! He feels that nowadays the value which was given to photography cannot be felt anymore. “I found that young people are very interested with photography nowadays, we can even say it is the buzz. But unfortunately, our educational system is too academically oriented and shows no concern to photography as an art or a skill. So, I have organised opportunities of dispensing photography courses and seminars for all photography lovers.”

Likely to mark the World Photography Day, he offered a one-day photography seminar three weeks ago at the Youth Centre of Helvetia with the collaboration of the Moka Regional Youth Council, and he was amazed to have around 70 participants. On that occasion, he also displayed some of his work as an exhibition. “I truly believe that young Mauritians do not lack talent, but they are not given enough opportunities and platforms to showcase their skills.”