In a small corner of Suva, Fiji, a revolution in photography is quietly unfolding.
Hemal Khatri, a man who started with a camera and a vision, now operates a thriving photography studio, Special Moments Photography & Cinematography Studio.
This is the story of his journey from sharing a space with his father to establishing a state-of-the-art studio that caters to diverse photographic needs.
A leap of faith
Khatri’s entry into the world of photography was anything but conventional. Initially pursuing a Diploma in IT Networking, he faced the familiar struggle of finding employment in a competitive job market.
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic was a turning point.
With job prospects dwindling and his passion for photography rekindled, Khatri decided to transform a hobby into a career.
“I had a camera before, a friend’s camera actually,” Khatri recalled.
“Photography started as a hobby, but when I saw its potential, I thought, why not turn it into a business?”
Armed with determination and a camera, he began freelancing, focusing on corporate shoots and modelling portfolios.
His studio, initially operating out of his father’s tailoring shop, was the first step in a journey that would soon surpass his wildest dreams.
Building the dream studio
From the confines of a tailoring shop, Khatri’s ambitions grew. By 2022, he had transitioned to his own dedicated studio space.
“This wall took almost three weeks to build,” Khatri said referring to a setup that creates an optical illusion of infinity.
“I studied online tutorials and consulted professionals to make this vision a reality.”
Khatri’s studio is more than just a workspace; it is a reflection of his dedication and innovation.
The expansive area allows him to cater to large groups, and his commitment to providing diverse backgrounds and props sets his studio apart from others.
Clients can enjoy a full range of services under one roof, from high-quality photo shoots to bespoke portraiture.
A different approach to photography
One of Khatri’s standout philosophies is his commitment to showcasing untapped potential.
“I believe everyone has a hidden talent,” he said.
While typically studios focus solely on traditional models, Khatri recruits individuals who may not fit conventional modelling criteria. For clients in the garment industry for example, Khatri’s studio becomes a stage where new faces can present collections, broadening the scope of fashion photography in Fiji.
Adapting to challenges
Khatri’s journey was not without its hurdles. Initially, space constraints in his father’s shop limited his ability to accommodate larger groups and diverse shoots.
“I couldn’t offer what I wanted to because of the space,” he said.
Transitioning to a larger studio was a significant step that required careful planning and investment.
Pricing was another challenge. Khatri started with a modest rate of $90 per hour which has since increased to reflect expanded services and overhead costs. Despite this, he strives to maintain affordability, countering the common perception that studio photography is prohibitively expensive.
Expanding horizons
Khatri’s ambitions stretch beyond traditional photography. He is delving into videography, graphic design, and even podcasting.
“I want to create a space where people can not only get their photos taken but also have a podcast recorded.”
He said his studio has become a multifunctional space, integrating various media forms to meet the needs of clients.
Client-centric philosophy
As a rule, client satisfaction is paramount. Khatri ensures that each session is tailored to the client’s vision, offering a range of backgrounds and settings to create the perfect shot.
“I prefer working alone,” he said.
“It helps me maintain control and ensure that everything goes smoothly.”
Future plans and advice
Looking ahead, Khatri said he is excited about the potential for growth and diversification. His plans include expanding into new areas and continuously improving his skills.
“The key is to stay creative and versatile,” he advises aspiring photographers.
“Don’t compare yourself to others. Focus on developing your unique style and exploring different genres.”
As he continues to innovate and expand, Khatri likened his studio as a beacon of what can be achieved with passion and perseverance.
In the vibrant city of Suva, Special Moments Photography & Cinematography Studio is not just a place to capture moments; it is where dreams take shape, and ordinary people become extraordinary subjects.
