Author Archives: Anirudh Iyer

Lexar Appoints Supertron Electronics as Indian Distributor

Lexar has named Supertron Electronics Pvt. Ltd. as its official pan-India distributor for key product categories. The agreement will see Supertron handle the distribution of Lexar’s storage products—including pen drives, microSD cards, internal and portable SSDs, and DRAM modules—across both consumer and enterprise markets.

With this move, Lexar aims to expand its distribution network and improve product availability across the country. Supertron’s nationwide presence, including over 50 branches and operations in more than 750 cities, is expected to support this goal. The company’s reach also includes a sales force and a network of more than 15,000 channel partners.

Fissal Oubida, General Manager – India, Middle East, and Africa at Lexar, said that India represents a key market for the company and that the partnership is part of its strategy to broaden its footprint in the region.

Currently, Lexar holds a leading position in the CFexpress and SD card segments in India. The company now plans to grow its presence in other areas, such as SSDs and DRAM solutions.

Vibhor Agarwal, CEO of Supertron Electronics, stated that the collaboration would allow them to offer a broader range of memory and storage products to their customer base and aligns with evolving technology demands in India.

The partnership reflects an effort to adapt to increasing data storage needs across a range of users, including professionals, gamers, and enterprises.

Sony Unveils FX2 Cinema Camera

Sony has unveiled the FX2, a hybrid cinema camera aimed at next-gen filmmakers. It combines the 33MP full-frame sensor from the a7 IV with a compact, video-centric body similar to the bigger FX3 and a tilting 3.68M-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF).

The FX2’s video capabilities include shooting 4K 10-bit 4:2:2 All-I recording, dual base ISO (800/4000) in S-Log3, and up to 15 stops of dynamic range. It also includes photo-friendly features such as a mechanical shutter and the ability to capture JPEG or HEIF stills even while recording video.

Designed with videographers in mind, it features a large REC button, full-size HDMI, multiple mounting points, shutter angle control, a cooling fan, and support for the optional XLR top handle. A fully articulating screen, anamorphic de-squeeze (1.33x & 2x), and new dynamic active stabilisation mode to enhance versatility.

Autofocus improvements include Sony’s AI-powered real-time recognition AF for people, animals, insects, and vehicles, plus AI auto framing. However, 4K 60p recording uses an APS-C crop (1.5x), and 4.7K RAW is only possible via external recording.

The FX2 will be available in August in two options:

  • Body-only: $2699 or ₹2,25,000 (approx.)
  • With XLR handle: $3099 or ₹2,60,000 (approx.)

With its hybrid-friendly features and improved usability, the FX2 is essentially an a7 IV in an FX3-style body, but with an EVF and better stills support.

BenQ Unveils “Retina-class” 5K Professional Monitor

BenQ has announced the PD2730S, a 27-inch 5K monitor designed for professionals in design, content creation, and visual production. With a “Retina” class resolution of 5120 × 2880 pixels which equates to a pixel density of 218 PPI.

The PD2730S features 98% DCI-P3 colour gamut coverage and Delta E ≤ 2 accuracy. It is both Pantone and Calman Verified, with BenQ’s AQCOLOR Technology supporting colour consistency. Their “Nano Matte” Panel helps reduce glare, and an integrated KVM switch enables control of multiple devices from a single setup.

Connectivity options include Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, and HDMI. Thunderbolt 4 supports data transfer up to 40Gbps, power delivery up to 90W, and daisy-chaining of multiple monitors, offering compatibility with MacBook workflows. The monitor also includes Display ColorTalk and Palette Master Ultimate softwares for calibration and colour management across devices – suitable for workflows including VFX production, high-resolution photography, and cinematic video editing.

“The PD2730S is a response to the evolving expectations of today’s creative workforce — professionals who require uncompromising accuracy, fluid Mac ecosystem integration, and enhanced multitasking capabilities,” said Rajeev Singh, Managing Director, BenQ India.

The PD2730S is priced at ₹1,02,500 and will be available through the BenQ e-Store, Amazon India, and select electronics and IT retailers.

Slow Mind, Soulful Stills – Mahendra Bakle

Mahendra Bakle is a travel and documentary photographer from India whose work captures cultural stories and human connection across Asia. His images—often set in remote villages—blend natural light, emotion, and authenticity to reflect the soul of a place. Previously featured on our On The Horizon section, he’s now an internationally acclaimed artist featured in publications like National Geographic and more. Asian Photography caught up with him, talking about the evolution of his work, travel lessons, underrated skills and more. Excerpts:

How would you introduce yourself to someone who’s never heard of your work? 

I’m a travel and documentary photographer from India. My work focusses on capturing  cultural stories, traditions, and people in their natural environments, typically in remote and  lesser-known regions across Asia. I’m especially drawn to moments where light, texture, and  human emotion intersect. I spend time getting to know the people I photograph, typically sharing conversations, tea, or even laughter before lifting the camera. This approach helps me create authentic, respectful portrayals of the soul of a place and its people. 

But, at the core, I remain a curious traveller with a deep love for culture, light, and storytelling through the lens. 

How have you and your work evolved over the years? 

Over the years, both my photography and my personal perspective have evolved in profound  ways. When I first started, I was focussed mainly on capturing beautiful moments — interesting  faces, scenic places, or striking compositions. But as I travelled more, especially through  remote villages and culturally rich regions across Asia, I realised that the real power of  photography lies in storytelling and human connection. 

I’ve grown from being a silent observer to an engaged documentarian. Now, I spend more  time understanding the people I photograph—their lives, traditions, and daily rituals. That  connection reflects in my work, which has become more intimate, emotionally layered, and  culturally grounded. 

I’ve evolved technically as well. My editing style has become more refined—natural tones,  subtle light enhancements, and a focus on preserving authenticity. Tools like Lightroom and  Photoshop have helped, but the biggest change was internal: I’ve learned to slow down, wait for the right moment, and let the story reveal itself rather than chase it. 

Each image today feels less like a photo and more like a conversation—a small but powerful  bridge between cultures. That’s the evolution I’m most proud of. 

What’s the earliest lesson travel has taught you, and is it still relevant today? 

One of the earliest and most important lessons travel taught me is humility—the  understanding that no matter how much you know, there’s always more to learn from the  world and its people. When I first began travelling for photography, I would enter a place with a camera and curiosity. But very quickly, I realised that true stories don’t come to you unless you slow down, listen, and approach every place and person with deep respect. 

While sitting with a tribal elder in Nagaland or sharing coffee with a monk in Myanmar, I learned that being present and open-hearted reveals far more than any guidebook ever could. That lesson remains just as relevant today—if not more—especially in a world where things move fast and surface-level interactions are common. For me, meaningful photography still begins with humility, patience, and respect. These are timeless values, both in life and in art. 

Has Instagram changed your perspective about photography? 

Yes, Instagram has definitely influenced my perspective—both in positive and challenging  ways. In the beginning, it pushed me to be more consistent with my work, to develop a recognisable style, and to curate how I present stories. It helped me connect with photographers and cultures around the world, and brought my work to people I would have never reached otherwise. That visibility has opened doors to exhibitions, collaborations, and even meaningful conversations with strangers who resonated with an image. 

However, I’ve also had to be careful not to let the platform dictate my vision. With the  constant pressure to post, chase engagement, or follow trends, it’s easy to lose sight of why we begin in the first place. I’ve learned to use Instagram as a tool to share, not perform—to stay true to the slower, more intentional documentary style that defines my work, even if it doesn’t always follow the algorithm. 

My core values in photography — storytelling, authenticity, and connection—remain unchanged even with the challenge that Instagram has presented. 

With photography becoming more democratized now, what’s the most underrated skill  newcomers ought to focus on? 

In today’s world, almost anyone can take a beautiful picture—cameras are smarter, editing  tools are more accessible, and inspiration is everywhere. Amidst all this, I think the most  underrated skill is developing and staying true to your own unique visual style and voice. 

When I look back at my journey, what set my work apart wasn’t just technique—it was the  consistency in how I saw and told stories. For me, that meant focussing on natural light,  human connection, cultural authenticity, and subtle, respectful colour tones. It took time to  discover that voice, and even more discipline to protect it from trends and algorithms. 

Newcomers often try to replicate popular styles for quick attention, but I believe true growth  comes from shooting what you genuinely care about, again and again, until your work begins  to speak for you—even without a caption. 

So yes, learn the technicals, explore platforms, be inspired—but also spend time  understanding what moves you, and allow that to shape your photography. That’s what will  make your work stand out in the long run. 

How do you think one can stay curious after mastering the basics? 

I stayed curious by remembering why I started photography in the first place—not just to make technically perfect images. Even after mastering the basics, I still approach every assignment or journey with the mindset of a student. Curiosity grows when you step out of your comfort zone—whether it’s visiting a new place, learning from someone else’s process, or even trying to see the familiar with fresh eyes. Sometimes, I’ll go back to the same village or location, but with a different lens—emotionally and literally—and it leads to a completely new perspective. 

I also find inspiration in slowing down. When you stop chasing shots and start observing  more deeply, new layers begin to reveal themselves—light changes, human expressions shift,  stories unfold. That’s where curiosity thrives. 

So for me, the key is to keep exploring—not just the world, but also within myself.  Photography is not a destination; it’s a lifelong journey, and there’s always something new to  learn, feel, or express. 

How do you teach someone to capture the story of a place rather than just a pretty  snapshot? 

I tell them to slow down, observe, and connect with the people and rhythm of the place.  Understand the culture, light, and emotions around you. A story isn’t just seen—it’s felt.  When you feel it, the camera becomes a bridge, not just a tool. That’s when storytelling truly  begins. 

How do you measure your success? 

I measure success not just by awards or recognition, but by the emotional connection my  work creates. When someone sees one of my images and feels something—curiosity,  empathy, respect—that’s success. It’s also in the trust of the people I photograph and the  stories I’m honoured to share with honesty and heart. 

What’s your photographic signature? 

My photographic signature lies in capturing authentic cultural moments with natural light,  soft tones, and emotional depth. I focus on people in their environments—often in rural or  remote regions—framed with simplicity, texture, and quiet storytelling. My images aim to  reflect not just what a place looks like, but what it feels like. 

Capturing Travel Chronicles – Chris Ha

Chris Ha’s work is a visual treat to see, not only because of the passions that’s reflected in his well-composed frames, but also in the effort he puts in breaking tough concepts of post-processing in his videos. Spanning across multiple genres, his work has amassed admirers and acclaim from around the world. Asian Photography caught up with him to talk about his journey, mistakes, key learnings and more. Excerpts:

When did travel photography become more than just a hobby for you?

I’ve always loved photography. Back in my college days, I worked at a photo lab and would spend hours

studying other people’s photos, trying to understand what made them compelling. For years, I actually

focussed more on concert photography — capturing fast-paced moments in low light taught me a lot about timing, composition, and storytelling. I’ve carried a camera with me everywhere, but it wasn’t until my wife and I travelled to Japan in 2023. Travel photography really became something more. I posted a few photos from that trip on social media, and they unexpectedly went viral. That’s when I realised I wanted to take travel photography more seriously and share it as a form of art. It’s such a rewarding feeling when people connect with your work and see the beauty you saw at that moment.

What’s the first thing you learnt doing travel photography?

One of the first lessons I have  learned is that the best moments in travel photography often happen when you least expect them. You have to let the scene come to you – not the other way around. That learning really showed itself during a trip to the Atacama Desert in Chile. We were driving in the early hours of the morning on our way to another location when I spotted something out of the corner of my eye. A

herd of vicuñas were quietly grazing, with the Andes mountains in the background, and the first light of  sunrise casting a golden glow across the scene. It was surreal. I quickly asked the driver to pull over, grabbed my camera, and shot it right out the window. That photo ended up being one of my favourite captures. It was a reminder that sometimes the most powerful images aren’t planned – they happen when you’re fully present and ready to respond.

What are some mistakes you made early on that you wish someone had warned you about?

One big mistake I made early on was thinking I had to capture everything. I’d try to document every angle and every moment, afraid I’d miss something. But in doing that, I wasn’t really slowing down to observe or be intentional with my shots. Over time, I realised that great photography is less about volume and more about vision. It’s about waiting for the right moment, the right light, and the right feeling. 

Another lesson was realising, you don’t need the latest gear to take great photos. I used to shoot on an older Canon 5D Mark III until just last year. It didn’t have all the features of modern mirrorless cameras, but it helped me master the fundamentals. Having limitations pushed me to be more creative and intentional every time I picked up the camera.

How do you handle failure or disappointment?

I’ve definitely had trips where the weather didn’t cooperate, access was restricted, or the photos just didn’t turn out the way I imagined. It’s frustrating at the moment, but I’ve learned to see those situations as part of the process. Not every shoot is going to be a win, and that’s okay. 

I try to treat those moments as a reminder to stay flexible and present. Sometimes the best shots happen

when you stop chasing the original plan and start paying attention to what’s around you instead. And even if I come home without the photo I wanted, I’ve usually gained something else – a new idea, a better understanding of the location, or simply a good story. Those “misses” have helped me grow just as much as the successful shoots.

At what point did you feel confident enough to start sharing your knowledge with others?

It was after my first few travel photos went viral on Instagram. Until that point, I was mostly shooting for myself. There’s always that doubt in the back of your mind—wondering if people will connect with your work the same way you do. But seeing others respond to the photos and ask how I captured certain shots gave me the confidence to start sharing more of my process. That acknowledgement helped me realize that what I’ve learned could actually help others on their own journey. And the more I shared, the more I enjoyed being part of that creative exchange.

Was teaching always part of the plan, or did it happen naturally as you grew in your career?

It was never part of the plan, but I genuinely enjoy it. As I started sharing more of my work, people began

asking questions — about my camera settings, editing, or how I captured a specific moment. I realised I liked helping others figure it out. It’s fun to support someone in their own creative journey and help give them the confidence to share their art. The world just feels richer when more people are showing how they see things in their own unique way.

Has teaching others ever helped you see your own work in a new way?

Absolutely. Teaching forces you to slow down and really think about why you do what you do. When I break down my process for someone else, it makes me more intentional with how I shoot and edit. Sometimes I’ll explain something I do out of habit, and in doing so, I realise there’s actually a more efficient or creative way to approach it.

It’s also inspiring to see how other people interpret the same scene or technique differently. That perspective reminds me to stay curious and keep evolving. Teaching isn’t just about giving knowledge – it’s a two-way exchange that keeps me learning too.

What’s one piece of advice you always give to new photographers, no matter where they’re starting from?

Just start shooting and get your work out there. Don’t wait until everything feels perfect. The best way to grow is by doing, experimenting, and learning as you go. And don’t be afraid to share your work, even if it feels daunting at first.

Putting your photos out into the world, especially on social media, can feel intimidating. You might worry

about what others will think or whether your work is “good enough”. But the truth is, sharing your art is part of the process. It helps you build confidence, get feedback, and find your voice. Everyone starts somewhere, and the only way to improve is to keep showing up.

May 2025

Asian Photography Magazine May 2025 Issue is out!

📸 Cover by: Chris Ha

In this issue, explore:

Capturing Chronicles – Chris Ha
Slow Mind, Soulful Stills – Mahendra Bakle
Best Travel Destinations in India
How to Take Sharp Travel Photos Without a Tripod
Minimalist Travel Photography
Tips for Shooting Landmarks Without Making Them Cliche

Scuderia Ferrari and HP Unveil Special Livery for Miami Grand Prix

Scuderia Ferrari and HP Inc. have revealed a bold, co-designed livery ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, celebrating one year of their title partnership. Unveiled by drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton alongside Team Principal Fred Vasseur. This is the first time in Scuderia Ferrari’s history that an asymmetric graphic design has featured on their Formula 1 cars.

Key Highlights:

  • Collaborative Innovation: Ferrari and HP engineering teams in Maranello and Barcelona co-developed the livery using advanced materials and technologies.
  • Design & Technology: The new wrap features Ferrari red with HP’s electric blue and white, applied using HP’s latest latex technology. It’s up to 14% lighter, 17% thinner, PVC-free, recyclable, and offers enhanced thermal resistance.
  • Asymmetric Design: For the first time in Scuderia Ferrari’s history, the SF-25s of Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton sport asymmetric graphics, white wheels, and blue accents.
  • Matching Gear: Drivers’ suits and helmets have been redesigned to match the special Miami livery.

The livery showcases cutting-edge materials and wrapping technologies. It marks a significant leap forward in how design and innovation meet on the racetrack.

Blue accents appear on the front and rear wings, while the wheels are painted white to complement the electric blue and red colour scheme. The drivers’ race suits and helmets also reflect the special design created for the Miami event.

Beyond aesthetics, the partnership is transforming how Ferrari operates. HP has equipped the team’s headquarters and mobile offices with powerful laptops, monitors, and printers, improving efficiency and collaboration.

Enrique Lores, CEO, HP Inc. said — “Together with Ferrari, we’re co-engineering breakthrough innovations on and off the track.”

Benedetto Vigna, CEO, Ferrari said — “This livery symbolizes our shared belief in technology, design, and pushing boundaries.”

Lexar Announces World’s First Stainless-Steel SD Cards

Lexar has launched its new ARMOR GOLD and ARMOR SILVER PRO UHS-II SD Cards in India, introducing the world’s first stainless-steel SD cards. Designed for photographers and content creators, these cards are built to withstand challenging conditions. They are IP68-rated, offering resistance to dust, water, and drops from up to 5 meters.

Both cards support Video Speed Class 60 (V60) and read speeds up to 280MB/s. GOLD offers write speeds up to 210MB/s and the SILVER PRO up to 160MB/s. Their rib less design and absence of a write-protection switch also seeks to improve durability.

Tested for thermal, shock, and static resistance, the cards comply with SD Association (SDA) thickness standards to ensure compatibility with most professional cameras. Lexar also includes its Recovery Tool for file restoration.

Available at major retail and online platforms, prices for the SILVER PRO start at ₹7,750 (128GB) and ₹12,250 (256GB), while the GOLD version is priced at ₹9,250 (128GB) and ₹16,250 (256GB).

Nikon India Launches Z5II at ₹1,49,995

Nikon India Pvt. Ltd. has unveiled the Nikon Z5II, its latest full-frame mirrorless camera. Designed for both aspiring professional creators, the Z5II delivers a perfect blend of advanced imaging technology and user-friendly design.

Sensor and Processing

  • 24.5MP Full-Frame BSI CMOS sensor
  • EXPEED 7 image processor
  • 5-axis in-body image stabilization (up to 7.5 stops of VR)
  • Autofocus performs in low light down to -10EV
  • Enhanced AF-A mode for smoother subject tracking

Video and Usability

  • Supports 4K/60p and Full HD/120p recording
  • 10-bit N-Log and 12-bit N-RAW internal recording for advanced video workflows
  • Vari-angle touchscreen for flexible framing
  • High-brightness electronic viewfinder (EVF) for improved visibility in bright conditions
  • Aimed at filmmakers, wedding professionals, and content creators

With seamless compatibility across Z Mount lenses and connectivity options like USB-C and HDMI, the Z5II is built to support creators across genres.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Sajjan Kumar, Managing Director of Nikon India, said, “The Z5II is crafted for hybrid creators, offering rapid autofocus, superb low-light performance, and support for formats like N-RAW and N-Log—making professional-grade imaging more accessible.”

Availability: The Nikon Z5II will be available from April 24, 2025, across India at INR 1,49,995.

OmniVision Launches New OV50X Sensor Boasting 18 Stops of Dynamic Range

OmniVision has introduced the OV50X, a flagship-grade Type-1 (1-inch) image sensor designed for premium smartphones, boasting what it claims is the highest dynamic range in the mobile industry—“close to” 110 decibels, or roughly 18 stops. This marks a major leap in smartphone imaging, rivaling even some medium-format sensors in theory.

Powered by TheiaCel and DCG HDR technologies, the OV50X uses lateral overflow integration capacitor (LOFIC) to enhance low-light performance and minimize motion artifacts by capturing dual-gain exposures in a single frame. With 50 megapixels, 1.6-micron pixels, and quad phase detection autofocus, it promises sharp, high-quality images across diverse lighting conditions.

The sensor supports 4-cell binning, producing 12.5MP images at 180 FPS and three-channel HDR at 60 FPS. It can also shoot 8K video using dual analog gain HDR and on-sensor crop zooming. Built with PureCel Plus-S stacked technology, it delivers enhanced low-light efficiency and autofocus coverage across the entire frame.

While real-world performance remains to be seen, the OV50X sets a high bar for mobile photography. Sampling is underway, with mass production expected in Q3 2025. If it delivers on its claims, it could pose serious competition to dominant players like Sony and Samsung in the smartphone camera space.