“I observe people and respect them. I do not violate anyone’s privacy without their permission. Observation is the key.”

Satyaki Basu. Born in 1979, Satyaki Basu is an Indian photographer currently based in Kolkata. He’s self-taught when it comes to photography.

His images have been published in “Better Photography India”, “Spiceroute Magazine”, “Lonely Planet – BBC”, “Asian Geographic Passport”, “National Geographic Traveler India”, “Discover India” and on www.nationalgeographic.com. Satyaki Basu is represented by Getty Images.

Artist statement: “I am a doctor by profession and photography is my hobby, my passion. I picked up camera in 2008 and since then have fallen in love with this invaluable gift of science to mankind: A good photograph instantly makes you happy.”

Image from Indian photojournalist Satyaki Basu photography

Satyaki Basu, why did you become a photographer?

I picked up a camera just by chance. I bought my first camera in 2008 as the sales-woman in the electronics shop told me it’s a good deal. I was accompanying my friends who were busy selecting a washing machine.

What does photography mean to you?

A stress buster.

What do you try to convey with your pictures?

I don’t try to convey anything. I just try to stop a good moment in time.

Which photographer has inspired you most?

Steve McCurry, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Ed Kashi, Michael Yamashita, and Ami Vitale.

Your favorite photography quote?

“If your picture isn’t good enough, you’re not close enough.”

Robert Capa

How would you describe your photographic voice?

I observe people and respect them. I do not violate anyone’s privacy without their permission. Observation is the key.

I follow my instincts and shoot what gives me the most pleasure, after some time it became a style of my own.

What do you consider to be the axis of your work?

I use normal range zoom lens – 17-55mm. I feel framing a shot is the most important part of a good photograph and yes of course – good light as I am a natural light photographer.

Satyaki Basu - www.satyakibasu.weebly.com

What qualities and characteristics does a good photographer need?

Patience, observation and respect for the people he or she is photographing.

What does a photo need to be a great photo in your eyes?

The perfect moment that attracted you to take the photograph.

Image from Indian photojournalist Satyaki Basu photography

Image from Indian photojournalist Satyaki Basu photography

Where do you draw inspiration from for your photographic projects?

From my surrounding, from the streets.

What kind of camera and equipment do you use?

I use Canon 450D and 17-55mm lens. Previously I had a Tamron 17-50mm lens.

What’s your favorite website about photography?

I recommend: www.theatlantic.com/infocus

What photography book would you recommend?

I never read a whole book, but I read quite a lot from Bryan Peterson’s “Understanding Exposure” to see creatively. These are for the beginners.

Which advice would you give someone who wants to become a professional photographer?

Good marketing is as important as good photography skills.

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4 COMMENTS

  1. A very warm congratulation from my end, though I consider myself just as a dunce in photography. However I can not but admire your passion, patience and power of vision on the subject.

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