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Lights, Camera, Action BY MELVYN MISQUITA
colour -- when he decided to become a professional photographer. And recently, his passion for a specialised form of photography saw him establish Portrait Atellier at the Kamat Classic I in Caranzalem-Panjim. Though originally from Carmona-Salcete, Alex was born and brought up in Bombay and went on to study physics at Elphinstone’s college. “I was attracted by the glamour of fashion in Mumbai and I assisted noted photographer Rahul Patil between 1983 and 1985,” explains Alex, who also tried his hands on freelance journalism, by associating himself with Eve’s Weekly. “However freelance photography is best described as documentary. I preferred a studio as it is more specialised and technical,” Alex added. He has also experimented with food and product photography and outdoor photography. Then in 1986, Alex got an overseas break with Fuji in Kuwait. After the invasion of Kuwait, Alex switched over to Kodak distributor Ashraf and Co, where he served on the faculty for portrait photography and lighting workshops. He worked there till 2000, before he decided to return to India. Though Alex was trained with Broncolor at its studios in Basel-Switzerland, he says he has not done any full-fledged course in photography. “I believe the only way to get into photography is hands on experience,” insists Alex. Describing himself as a specialist in portrait photography, Alex says his style of photography is unique to Goa. “Our portraits reflect a combination of artistry and technology to give you pleasing, personal works of art that will adorn your house and albums for generations,” justifies Alex. Alex explains that the entire session begins when the client enters his office. “This is normally an interactive session, where I converse with the client, so that I can focus on the salient features of the person. The client is then taken to our fully equipped studio, that has been custom designed for portraiture,” explains Alex. “The most striking portraits,” Alex points out, “are reflections of your style, your moods and your interests.” Portrait Atellier currently offers four packages. The Classic package is aimed at individuals, couples and smaller families, while the Deluxe package is offered to bigger families and staff. In addition, Alex also offers a post-wedding package and model portfolio. Using a high-end Nikkon D 70 Digital SLR camera and assisted by make-up assistants, Alex normally takes about 10-12 shots of the subject before he shortlists the best ones. “Each of our packages involves multiple photo shoots in a variety of poses, angles and lighting effects,” informs Alex. “What is unique about my approach is that the snaps clicked on the digital camera are instantly downloaded on the computer and shown to the client. Normally, each session takes about 2 hours,” he adds. Once the entire session is over, Alex provides the client with a CD containing photos of the entire session, besides three 8”x12” photo prints of the client’s choice within a day or two. Alex prefers to compare himself with an artist, who works with a different medium using both art and skill. “I consider myself an artist who uses film and light. While 50 per cent of photography involves skill, the other 50 percent involves art,” explains Alex. Not merely satisfied with portrait photography, Alex has plans to launch workshops for serious amateurs in portrait photography. “I want to share my skills with those who share my passion in this line. This idea of a portrait workshop has literally given rise to Portrait Atellier. Incidentally, ‘atellier’ is a French word for ‘workshop’,” sums up Alex. [Comments on this article] To comment on this report, please Click Here to contact Melvyn Misquita. |
