Anjan Ghosh is one of India's best photographers. He graduated with an art degree and is currently working as a graphic artist at an advertising agency. He captures with his camera the essence of humanity, the soul of rural life, and pure emotion through powerful portraits and street moments with documentary value.
Anjan is a photographer who believes that art can be a powerful tool for social change and his intention is to help families in rural areas of West Bengal and India.
Hello, Anjan,
First of all, I would like to thank you for taking the time to tell us about you and your work in this interview.
To begin, where are you from? Please tell us about yourself and your passions.
Hi, thanks for having me here. I am originally from Barrackpore, which is located 30 km far from Kolkata.
I graduated from Calcutta University with a diploma in Computer Graphics and Animation from IBM. Also, I have completed my diploma in Applied Art from Birla Academy of Art & Culture, Kolkata, India. Currently, I am working in India as a senior graphic designer and visualise at Trisys Communication Pvt Ltd. My hobby includes painting and my passion is photography. My photography has been exhibited across the world and got several photography awards. I love capturing the rural essence primarily. My skills include photography, graphic design, web design digital painting.
What inspired you to approach photography? How did this journey start?
I've always been drawn to the power of visual storytelling, and photography provides a unique and captivating way to convey stories and emotions. I started my photography journey when I was given my first camera as a gift. At first, I was simply taking pictures of anything and everything that caught my eye. But as I began to study the art and learn more about the technical aspects of photography, I realized that I could use my camera to capture moments that were meaningful to me and to others.
My passion for photography grew as I learned to see the world through a different lens. I began to notice the beauty in the smallest details, the colors of the sunset, the way light falls on a face. Photography allowed me to freeze time and capture memories that I could hold onto forever.
As I continued to develop my skills, I started to share my work with others, and the positive feedback I received encouraged me to keep going. I love the way photography connects people, and how it can evoke emotions and start conversations. I'm constantly learning and evolving, always searching for new ways to tell stories through my images.
Of all the genres, why were you drawn to portrait and documentary photography? When did you realize you liked photographing people?
I was drawn to portrait and documentary photography because people are endlessly fascinating subjects. Every person has a story to tell, and I love the challenge of capturing their unique personalities and emotions through my lens. With portrait photography, I enjoy the process of collaborating with my subjects to create an image that reflects who they are. It's an intimate and collaborative process that allows me to connect with people on a deeper level.
With documentary photography, I'm interested in capturing the reality of people's lives and experiences. I believe that photography can be a powerful tool for social change and can shed light on important issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. I'm passionate about using my camera to tell the stories of people who might not otherwise have a voice.
I realized that I liked photographing people early on in my photography journey. I found myself drawn to capturing candid moments and interactions between people, and I loved the challenge of creating portraits that captured a person's essence. As I continued to practice and develop my skills, my love for photographing people grew stronger, and it has become a defining feature of my work.
What is your mission in photography? What photography means to you?
Photography is my passion because it allows me to give a voice to those who may not have one and to shed light on the experiences of rural people. It is my mission to use photography as a tool to effect positive change in the lives of those who are often overlooked in our society. Through my images, I hope to raise awareness and inspire action, working towards improving the lives of rural communities.
Many stories of rural life are not often shared or recognized in our society, and I believe that photography can help to change that. By documenting the challenges and triumphs of rural life, and sharing those stories with a wider audience, I hope to make a difference in the lives of those I photograph. I am committed to using my skills as a photographer to raise awareness and promote change that will lead to a better life for those living in rural areas.
I am passionate about my work, and I am dedicated to using photography as a means of effecting positive change in the world. I will continue to tell the stories of those who do not have a voice and use my images to inspire others to act toward building a more just and equitable society.
Please, tell us what photographic equipment or accessories you use.
Canon 5D Mark IV and a Canon 700D camera body, along with lenses including a 50mm prime, 24-105mm zoom, 70-200mm telephoto from Canon, and an 11-16mm ultra-wide-angle lens from Tokina. Lighting equipment includes a reflector and flash
Happiness is not given by wealth, which can be seen on the faces of people you photograph. How do you manage to capture those authentic moments from their everyday life?
Capturing authentic moments from people's everyday lives requires patience, observation, and empathy. It involves building trust with the people being photographed, being aware of the surroundings and context, and waiting for the right moment to capture the shot. With practice and sensitivity, it's possible to create powerful and meaningful photographs that tell the story of people's lives.
You believe that every face has beauty and your characters, be they children, old people, or women, convince us of this. Tell us a little about your portraits and how they end up telling a story.
To take an example, let me tell the story of Sabita Bala. Sabita Bala is a fascinating subject for a portrait. At 95 years old, she embodies a lifetime of experiences and resilience that would make for a captivating portrait.
The portrait of Sabita Bala could capture the essence of her personality and the spirit that has kept her youthful even in her later years. Through careful attention to lighting, composition, color, and texture, I could emphasize the unique qualities that make Sabita Bala so special.
For example, I used warm, soft lighting to create a sense of comfort and intimacy, reflecting the close relationship between Sabita Bala and myself. The composition of the portrait was arranged to highlight Sabita Bala's strength and vitality, by emphasizing her confident posture and bright eyes. The texture of the portrait was carefully rendered to capture the lines and wrinkles on Sabita Bala's face, revealing the wisdom and experience she has gained over a long and eventful life.
The portrait of Sabita Bala tells a story by conveying the challenges she has faced and overcome throughout her life. Her strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit were captured in the portrait, reminding viewers of the power of human connection and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with those we love.
Overall, a portrait of Sabita Bala is a powerful tribute to a remarkable person and a celebration of the unique beauty that every face possesses.
How do you prepare for a photoshoot? Do you take snapshots or is there a relationship between you and the people you photograph, that develops over time?
That's a great approach to building relationships with the people you photograph and creating a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere during the photo shoot. It's important to establish trust and rapport with your subjects, especially when photographing them in intimate or personal settings. This can help them feel more at ease and natural in front of the camera, resulting in more authentic and meaningful photos.
By taking the time to get to know the people you photograph and sharing joyful moments with them, you are not only creating better photos but also building long-lasting relationships. This can lead to more opportunities to capture interesting stories and events, as well as a deeper understanding of the communities and cultures you are photographing.
How was it to take part in "Holi", the popular ancient Hindu festival, known as the "Festival of Love"? What can you share about this joyful and colorful event?
Holi is a vibrant and joyous festival celebrated in India and other parts of the world with significant Hindu populations. As a photographer, I have had the opportunity to capture the essence of this colorful festival by traveling to various villages and playing Holi with the locals.
For me, Holi is not just about capturing photos, but also about celebrating with the people. I always bring with me a lot of color, food, and drinks to share with the villagers. I love to see the excitement and happiness on their faces as we play with colors and drench each other with water.
The best part of my Holi experience is interacting with the locals and learning about their traditions and customs. I have made many friends during these celebrations, and they have welcomed me with open arms every time I visit. Their hospitality and warmth are truly heart-warming, and I feel blessed to be a part of their festivities.
At the end of the day, I feel fulfilled and happy knowing that I have captured the spirit of Holi and the essence of the people who celebrate it. It is truly an unforgettable experience that fills me with joy and gratitude.
What advice would you give to a photographer who wants to do documentary or street photography in India?
My advice would be to do research beforehand, be respectful of local customs and culture, build relationships with the people they want to photograph, and always seek consent before taking pictures. They should also be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Additionally, it's important to be patient and observant, as some of the best moments can happen unexpectedly.
You like to travel to exotic places, seeking out remote communities with people who have a lifestyle that hasn't changed much over time. Where does this desire to explore these places come from and what do you want to convey through your visual stories?
Many photographers and storytellers are drawn to remote communities and cultures because they offer a glimpse into a way of life that is vastly different from what most people experience in their daily lives. The desire to explore and document these places often comes from a sense of curiosity, adventure, and a desire to learn more about the world and its diverse cultures.
Through visual stories, photographers and storytellers aim to convey the beauty, complexity, and richness of these cultures, and to bring attention to issues that impact these communities. They hope to create a sense of empathy and understanding among their audiences and to inspire a deeper appreciation and respect for cultural diversity.
In documenting these communities, photographers and storytellers also aim to preserve their stories and traditions for future generations. They hope to create a visual record that will help to ensure that these cultures are not forgotten or lost as the world changes and gets modernized.
Through your work you bring attention to universally valid issues of the human condition, such as poverty, old age, and women's rights. Please tell us about the "Old is beautiful" series.
In the heartwarming series "Old is Beautiful," we delve into the remarkable life of Sabita Bala, a 95-year-old woman residing in a serene village just outside Kolkata. Her story embodies the strength, wisdom, and unwavering spirit that can be found in the elderly. Through the lens of Sabita Bala's experiences, we shed light on the beauty and value of aging and the transformative power of human connections.
• We begin by exploring Sabita Bala's early years, where she grew up in humble circumstances, facing numerous hardships. Despite the challenges, she cultivated resilience and a determination to create a better life for herself and her family. We witness her unwavering work ethic and her unwavering spirit, as she toils to provide for her loved ones and overcome obstacles along the way.
• In this episode, we delve into the present day, where Sabita Bala's remarkable age becomes apparent. We witness her zest for life, her youthful spirit, and her ability to find joy in even the smallest of moments. Through interviews with family, friends, and community members, we uncover the secrets to her longevity, from her positive outlook to her dedication to staying active both physically and mentally.
•Here, we explore the profound impact of human connections on Sabita Bala's life. We delve into her relationship with the narrator, who shares the transformative experiences and cherished memories they have shared. We witness the joy that blossoms from their bond and how it serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering connections with the elderly, providing them with a sense of belonging, love, and support.
• In this episode, we witness Sabita Bala's role as a source of inspiration for younger generations. We meet her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who share their admiration for her and the lessons they have learned from her experiences. Sabita Bala's story becomes a catalyst for intergenerational understanding, breaking down ageist stereotypes and fostering a deeper appreciation for the wisdom and guidance that older adults can offer.
As the series concludes, we reflect on the powerful message it carries: that old age is not a burden but a journey marked by resilience, joy, and the opportunity to learn from the experiences of those who have come before us. Sabita Bala's story serves as a poignant reminder to cherish and celebrate the beauty found within every stage of life, encouraging us to embrace the richness that comes with aging.
Please tell us about the impact of your exhibitions and your intention to help families in the rural areas of Bengal and India.
Exhibitions dedicated to helping families in rural areas of Bengal and India have the potential to create a lasting impact by addressing the unique challenges faced by these communities. Through these exhibitions, the intention is to raise awareness about specific issues, such as poverty, lack of access to education and healthcare, limited resources, and opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.
By showcasing the realities and stories of rural families, my exhibitions aim to foster empathy and understanding among visitors, bridging the gap between urban and rural populations. This increased awareness can lead to a shift in attitudes, breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions associated with rural communities.
Moreover, exhibitions have the power to empower rural families by providing them with a platform to showcase their skills, traditions, and cultural heritage. This recognition can boost their self-esteem, instill a sense of pride, and strengthen their collective identity.
In addition to raising awareness and empowering communities, exhibitions serve as catalysts for mobilizing resources. Philanthropists, organizations, policymakers, and concerned individuals who attend these exhibitions may be inspired to contribute financially, offer resources, or collaborate on projects that address the specific needs of rural families. These resources can be directed towards initiatives such as infrastructure development, education programs, healthcare services, and skill-building opportunities.
Furthermore, exhibitions can foster sustainable development in rural areas. By showcasing innovative solutions, sustainable practices, and successful case studies, they inspire replication and adaptation in other communities. Exhibitions can promote environmentally friendly practices, encourage entrepreneurship, and facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building.
Collaboration is a key element of exhibitions aimed at helping rural families. They provide a space for dialogue and cooperation between urban and rural communities, enabling the sharing of ideas and experiences. Such collaborations can lead to the development of long-term projects, interventions, and initiatives that address the root causes of rural challenges and strive for lasting change.
Overall, the impact of my exhibitions and related initiatives lies in their ability to raise awareness, empower communities, mobilize resources, foster sustainable development, and facilitate collaborations. Through these efforts, my intention is to improve the quality of life, create opportunities, and promote the well-being and development of families in rural areas of Bengal and India.
What can you tell us about painting and your abstract artworks? If you had to choose between photography and painting what would you choose?
When it comes to painting and abstract artworks, painting is a form of artistic expression that allows me to convey ideas, emotions, and perspectives through the use of colors, lines, shapes, and textures. It offers a creative outlet for self-expression and enables artists such as myself, to explore various styles and techniques. Abstract artworks, in particular, delve into the realm of imagination and emotion, often departing from the constraints of literal representation. They prioritize elements such as color, form, texture, and composition to evoke feelings, provoke thought, and engage viewers in a subjective and open-ended experience.
Each medium has its unique advantages and allows for different forms of storytelling.
Photography has the power to capture and freeze moments in time, documenting reality with accuracy and immediacy. It enables me to explore the world, connect with people, and convey narratives through visual storytelling. Photography provides an opportunity to observe, document, and share the beauty and stories of life with others.
On the other hand, painting allows for a more subjective and interpretive approach. It offers the freedom to create from scratch, manipulate elements, and convey emotions through the interplay of colors, shapes, and textures. Painting provides a deeper sense of personal expression and the possibility to translate one's inner world onto a canvas.
Ultimately, the choice between photography and painting is highly subjective and depends on one’s personal preference. Both mediums have their own merits and can offer fulfilling creative experiences. It's important to consider which medium aligns best with your artistic vision.
For me personally, photography holds a special place in my heart as it allows me to meet people, gain life experiences, and explore the world. It's a passion that has brought me joy and fulfillment. So, if I had to choose, photography is the path that speaks to me most strongly.
Do you have a favorite photographer that you appreciate and who has influenced your photographic journey?
Raghu Rai, with his powerful and evocative images capturing various facets of Indian society, has become one of the most influential photographers in India. His storytelling approach and ability to capture poignant moments have garnered international recognition and admiration.
Steve McCurry's iconic photographs, particularly his captivating travel and documentary work, have inspired countless photographers around the world. His ability to capture the human spirit and convey diverse cultures and stories through his images has made a lasting impact on the field of photography.
Which of your own project do you prefer and why? How important do you think projects are in the development of an artist?
1. Projects provide artists with a clear focus and direction for their creative endeavors. By setting specific goals and objectives within a project, artists can channel their energy and creativity into a cohesive body of work, resulting in a more impactful artistic practice. Engaging in projects allows artists to hone their skills and techniques. As they work on different aspects of the project, artists have the opportunity to experiment, learn new methods, and improve their artistic abilities. This continuous growth and refinement of skills contribute to the artist's overall development.
2. Projects encourage artists to explore new ideas, themes, and styles. They provide a platform for artists to step outside their comfort zones and push the boundaries of their creativity. This process of exploration and experimentation allows artists to discover their artistic voice and develop a distinct visual language.
3. Projects enable artists to delve deeper into the conceptual and narrative aspects of their work. By focusing on a specific project, artists can develop a more profound understanding of their chosen subject matter, explore different perspectives, and communicate their ideas effectively through their art.
4. Completed projects contribute to an artist's portfolio, showcasing their skills, growth, and versatility. A diverse and well-curated portfolio is crucial for artists to present their work to galleries, clients, or other opportunities. Projects help artists build a strong portfolio that represents their artistic vision and capabilities.
5. Engaging in projects allows artists to challenge themselves, learn from their experiences, and grow both personally and professionally. Projects provide opportunities for self-reflection, self-expression, and the development of a unique artistic identity.
If I am to talk about my projects, which inspired me the most and have a lasting effect on my memories,
One project that is very memorable is the “open prison” project, during my captivating 10-day journey to Rajasthan, I embarked on this project that left an indelible mark on my memory. This extraordinary venture granted me the privilege of connecting with and engaging over 200 incarcerated individuals. Interacting with them and capturing their essence through photography was an awe-inspiring experience. Immersed in their world, I delved deep into the intricacies of their lives, endeavouring to comprehend the circumstances that had led to their transgressions and subsequent confinement. From the early morning hours of 4:30 am until the evening shades of 7 pm, I devoted my time wholeheartedly to the craft of photography, aligning myself with an esteemed NGO. The reward of this endeavour surpassed all expectations, as it allowed me to illuminate their narratives and craft profound documentation. The project became a conduit for shedding light on the untold stories within the prison walls, fostering understanding, compassion, and an avenue for change.
Another one I vividly remember is, was during the COVID-19 pandemic. As photography opportunities became scarce due to people staying home, I decided to visit various villages and slum areas. I captured photographs that highlighted the challenging situations faced by people during this time. These images helped raise awareness and attract funds from around the world. For an entire year, we provided free food to those in need using the funds collected. Witnessing the impact of my photos, many individuals joined us in our mission to help people. It brought me immense happiness to see how my photography could inspire others to make a positive difference in the world.
How do you imagine the evolution of your artistic work and your figure as an artist in the future?
Artificial intelligence technology continues to evolve and improve over time. As advancements are made, AI models may become more sophisticated and capable of assisting in creative endeavours. This could include assisting artists with generating ideas, providing artistic suggestions, or even creating visual content in collaboration with human artists.