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Side Hustle to World’s Best – Tom Tomeij

Tom Tomeij is a Dutch wedding photographer who went from managing a hospital and photography on the side, to creating priceless memories for couples full time. Started with family and built over a decade, his work captures the precious moments of matrimony masterfully, alongside couple portraits that are a work of art in themselves.

Asian Photography spoke to him about challenges, team-building, future work, work day spontaneity and more. Excerpts:

How did you first start photographing weddings, especially the creative portraits?

My very first wedding shoot was in 2015, and it felt like a total disaster. It was an October wedding in The Hague at 4:30 PM, and by that time it was already dark outside. The only light came from chandeliers. Back then, high ISO meant heavy noise, so I had no choice but to use flash. The ceiling was ten metres high, so bouncing was impossible, and there were oil paintings everywhere, so I wasn’t allowed to flash off the walls either. In the end, I used a small continuous light on the couple and the officiant, which helped a bit, but honestly, it was pure stress.

My father and two sisters were already doing wedding videography for two years, so we decided to join forces and offer both photo and film, captured by one family. That became a strong USP and made me go from shooting 18 weddings in the first year to shooting over 100 per year only three years down the line.

When it came to portraits, I’ve always loved playing with concepts and abstract forms. I like reading shapes and balancing them with complementary light and colour. For me, a strong photo comes down to light, composition, and moment. I also believe our eyes are naturally drawn to the brightest part of an image, so if your subject is placed there, you’ve got a technically solid base. The next step is storytelling.

I always work with a mental checklist of 10 to 15 elements. The more knowledge you have, the faster you can see solutions. Conditions are rarely ideal, but if you know how to handle them, that’s when the most unique images are born.

Can you share a memorable challenge you’ve faced on a wedding day and how you handled it?

I could probably write a book about that! I often go pretty far to get the image I have in mind, sometimes a little too far. I’ve stood knee-deep in puddles, completely soaked, or laid flat on the ground only to realise my light grey pants were ruined!

I’ve also torn my pants multiple times during weddings. You squat, kneel, move fast, it happens. Once, during a first look, I ripped them open completely from front to back. Back then, I didn’t know the golden rule yet: Always carry a spare outfit.

So, with my face turning red, I asked the wedding planner if she happened to have a needle and thread. She didn’t, but there was a stapler. So I stapled my pants back together and later borrowed a pair from her husband. It was hilarious in hindsight, though definitely not at the time.

Let’s just say I’ve had a few even crazier moments, but those are stories I probably shouldn’t share here, haha!

How do you plan to shoot spontaneous and fun moments on a wedding day?

You can’t really plan spontaneous moments, but you can definitely create the conditions for them. You’ve to be alert and know where to look. Anticipation is everything, I always shoot through moments rather than at them, meaning I keep shooting as things unfold. You learn to recognise when those moments are likely to happen: walking away from the altar, during the first look, on the dance floor, or during party games. Those are the times to stay focused, move with the action, and make sure your settings and perspective fit the energy of the scene.

Even with group photos, you can bring in spontaneity. I like to direct with small concepts. When time is short or couples want something fun instead of stiff group portraits, I seat the couple on a bench or chairs and have the guests form small groups to photo-bomb them within five seconds. The first round is just for fun, the second is for the crazy shot, and the third is what I call the ‘Emmy Award’ moment. That’s when the magic happens, people cartwheel by, pretend to give birth, or use props for extra energy.

Of course, this doesn’t work with every crowd. As a photographer, you need to read the room and know when to push and when to let people be. But when the energy is right, those moments become some of the most memorable photos of the day.

How did you assemble a team of photographers who can shoot with a consistent style and tone and don’t get in each other’s ways?

Our team consists of five photographers, five videographers, and one person dedicated to marketing—my fiancee. When building the team, I always look at people’s personalities and strengths. I talk to our couples to understand what kind of energy they prefer, do they want someone who takes charge and directs, or someone who blends quietly into the background. Based on that, I match team members accordingly.

You can’t have two strong directors working side by side all day, you need balance. One might lead, while the other works more discreetly. A good photographer knows when to take control and when to go into what I call chameleon or ninja mode.

For not getting in each other’s way, communication and positioning are key. On a wedding day, we often work with two photographers and two videographers. During the vows, for example, one videographer always focuses on the person speaking because they need that clean audio and lip-sync. I then focus on the person listening, capturing their emotional response. The other two team members might shoot wider from behind, creating depth and context.

We often use a half-moon or criss-cross formation so that we’re never in each other’s frame. Sometimes one person handles ground-level coverage while another shoots from above, giving us two distinct perspectives without interference. We discuss in advance what we want to achieve and how we’ll approach it. Everyone has their lane, but also enough creative freedom to make the day their own.

In terms of consistency, the overall tone and mood are always unified during post-production. I personally handle the editing, which ensures that the final look and feel remain cohesive across all weddings. As long as clear guidelines and references are established, it’s possible to maintain the same visual identity even when multiple editors are involved.

What’s one personal or creative goal you’re working toward this year?

I always set two types of goals for myself, one personal and one organisational. I like to formulate them using the SMART method so they’re measurable and realistic. For the business side, we track things like KPIs, the number of leads, website visitors, conversion rates, the number of weddings and events we’ve covered in a year, our marketing spend, and long-term growth plans.

But to keep it simple, I’ll focus on my personal goal. This is my tenth year as a wedding photographer, and I’ve now captured over five hundred weddings. I still love this craft as much as the day I started, it has grown from a passion into a career that feels deeply personal.

Last year, I was named the ‘Best Wedding Photographer of the Benelux’. Right now, I’m in the running for the highest global recognition in the industry, the ‘Fearless Photographers Top of the World’. If I win, I’ll be able to call myself the best wedding photographer in the world—a dream come true.

Another goal for the coming years is to teach workshops in some of the world’s most breathtaking locations, places that are visually powerful and rich in photographic potential. I’ve already hosted multiple after-wedding shoots in Iceland, but I want to expand this concept globally.

This summer, I’ll be in the Dolomites, and in January, I’ll return to Venice for our Valentine’s campaign. Last year, we did one in Paris. Future destinations include Cappadocia in Turkey, with its surreal sunrise views of 150 hot-air balloons over the valleys of Göreme and Uçhisar Castle. The salt flats, the canyons, the lantern-filled carpet shops, it’s a visual paradise. I also dream of creating after-wedding shoots in Kyoto, Santorini, and the desert. My goal is to offer truly epic, next-level experiences for couples in the most photogenic places on earth.

What’s the most beautiful lesson weddings have taught you about love or human connection?

When I first started in this industry, I honestly saw weddings as a bit of a commercial affair. Sometimes it even felt like a performance. But as I photographed more and more, especially during the pandemic, my perspective changed completely. Even when celebrations were small, love still found a way.

I saw how love outlasted chaos, and that moved me deeply. Over the years, I’ve come to truly believe in its strength. Love always wins, and it deserves to be celebrated. Today, I think weddings are the most beautiful kind of event there is.

But I don’t believe the celebration should be limited to just one day. The journey toward it should be enjoyed just as much. And the memories that come out of it are worth cherishing for a lifetime.

What I find especially beautiful, when I look at all the cultures I’ve photographed, is that no matter where people come from, love brings everyone together. People travel across the world to be there for one another. That’s what love is about. It doesn’t matter where you are or what’s happening, in good times and in bad, love always prevails, and people will always want to celebrate it.

A wedding happens when you’re in the prime of your life. Everyone is at their best, and you’re there, fully present, to share that connection with the person you choose for life.

Whether or not you believe in marriage, I think life is always richer when you have a partner by your side. It’s more joyful, and when one of you struggles, the other reaches out a hand. You share the happiness, you share the burden, and that’s what makes love and life so powerful.

Backup Systems & Workflow: Never Lose a Client’s Memories

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Every wedding photographer’s nightmare is losing client photos. One corrupt memory card, one failed hard drive, one accidental delete, and months of trust and effort can vanish in seconds. Wedding photography is not just another creative business, it’s also memory preservation. When clients hire you, they’re not only paying for your artistic eye, but also for your reliability. That’s why building a solid backup system and workflow is not optional. It’s your safety net, your reputation, and sometimes, your career.

Why Backups Matter More Than You Think

No one expects data loss until it happens. Cameras fail, laptops crash, files get overwritten, and cloud sync errors occur. Even professionals who know better sometimes take shortcuts, thinking you will back it up later. But later can come too late.

Losing wedding photos is not like losing landscape shots or product images. You can’t recreate those moments. The couple’s first kiss, the father’s speech, the look on the bride’s face—all gone. That’s why your workflow must include redundancy at every step. The goal is simple: no single point of failure.

Step 1: Start Redundancy in the Camera

Your first layer of protection begins during shooting. Choose a camera that comes with two card slots—they also come with redundant recording features. When shooting RAWs or RAW+jpeg, choose the duplicate option to have a second copy of pictures on the second card. If one card fails, you still have the full set.

Use high-quality memory cards from trusted brands and rotate them frequently. Cards wear out over time, especially under heavy use. Label them, track their age, and retire them regularly. Avoid filling cards completely. Leaving some space helps prevent corruption issues.

Step 2: Immediate Backup After Shooting

The moment you finish shooting, your mission changes from capturing memories to protecting them. Never wait until the next day to transfer your files, do it on-site on a laptop to two separate hard drives, while keeping the data on the cards.

A simple rule to follow is the 3-2-1 backup strategy:

Keep 3 copies of your data
Store them on 2 different types of media
Have 1 copy stored off-site

For example, after downloading the files to your main working drive, duplicate them to an external hard drive and also upload them to a cloud backup system. This combination gives you protection from drive failure, theft, and disasters like fire or water damage.

Step 3: Structure Your File Management

Good backups are useless if you can’t find what you need. Build a consistent folder structure and naming convention for every client. Include the wedding date—Y-M-D format to search them easily—followed by the couple’s names, and shoot type (for example, 2025-10-15_SamAndJenna_Wedding)—inside, separate RAW files, edited files, and deliverables.

Organised workflows save time during editing and protect against accidental deletion. When you know exactly where every file belongs, you reduce mistakes. Many photographers also use catalogue-based systems like Adobe Lightroom, but remember that catalogs themselves need backup too. A corrupted Lightroom catalogue without a backup can disconnect your edits from your photos. Pro tip, have a backup system like Apple’s Time Machine enabled to store a copy of all your work on a daily basis at a secure location.

Step 4: Use Reliable Hardware

Not all drives are created equal. Consumer-grade external drives can fail under constant use. Invest in professional hardware—NAS units with RAID functionality that provide both speed and redundancy.

A RAID 1 setup mirrors data across two drives. If one fails, the other keeps your files safe. RAID 5 or RAID 6 configurations spread data across multiple drives, offering both speed and security. NAS (Network Attached Storage) systems add convenience, allowing automated backups and remote access. Conversely, you can buy a DAS or Direct Attached Storage setup if setting up storage over a network seems complicated. There are systems on the market that sell you a premade package which require minimal setup, but are also airgapped from the internet, just as a safety feature.

Regardless, regularly check your drives for health using tools that monitor bad sectors or drive temperature. Replace drives before they fail, not after.

Step 5: The Cloud as Your Safety Net

Cloud storage has become essential for long-term security. Services like Backblaze, Google Drive or Dropbox, can automatically sync your files in the background. The advantage is simple: even if your entire office setup is destroyed, your photos still live online.

However, cloud backups should complement, not replace, physical backups. Upload speeds can be slow for large RAW files, and syncing errors can occur. Make sure to double-check that your backup software verifies uploads and notifies you of any failed transfers.

For faster cloud workflows, you can also back up JPEG previews or compressed versions first, followed by full RAW files later. That way, you always have a version of the images safe in the cloud while the larger files upload overnight.

Step 6: Automate Where You Can

Human error is one of the main reasons for backup failure. Automating your backup process removes that risk. Use software that runs scheduled backups daily or weekly. Most NAS systems and external drives support automation tools that mirror and check files from your main working folders.

Set your system to notify you of failed tasks. Even the most advanced setup is useless if it stops syncing without your knowledge. Automation ensures that your backups stay current without relying on memory or habit.

Step 7: Test and Verify Regularly

A backup is only as good as its recovery. Too many photographers assume their system works until they try to restore files—and discover missing data or corrupted folders. Schedule routine checks. Once a month, retrieve a few random files from your backups to confirm they open correctly.

Also, keep documentation of your workflow. Write down where backups are stored, how often they’re updated, and what software you use. In a high-stress situation, clear instructions can make the difference between recovery and panic.

Step 8: Plan for the Long Term

After delivering photos to clients, don’t immediately clear space by deleting old files. Keep final edited images and RAW files for at least one year, if not longer. Clients sometimes request additional prints, albums, or re-edits later.

Long-term storage can be simplified by moving archived weddings to slower, larger-capacity drives or cold storage options like Amazon Glacier. These are designed for rarely accessed but permanently safe data.

You can also create a separate “client archive” drive with clearly labelled folders for each year. That way, even if your main system evolves, your historical data remains intact and easy to locate.

Step 9: Communicate Your Backup Policy

Your clients may not ask about your backup process, but mentioning it in your consultations can set you apart. It builds confidence when they know their memories are handled with professional care. You can include a short note in your contract explaining your storage and retention policies.

It’s also worth clarifying how long you keep the images and whether you provide long-term cloud access. Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and shows your commitment to quality.

Step 10: Learn From Mistakes and Evolve

Every photographer eventually faces a scare—a missing folder, a damaged card, or a near loss. Take those moments as lessons. Improve your system each time you identify a weak point. Technology changes fast, and your workflow should evolve with it.

Regularly review new tools, cloud options, and storage technologies. What worked five years ago may not be the best solution today. Treat your backup workflow as an active part of your business, not a one-time setup.

The Bottom Line

Photography is more than capturing images; it’s about protecting them. A solid backup system shows respect for your clients’ memories and your own professionalism. The truth is, you can replace equipment or reshoot a portrait session, but you can never redo a wedding day.

When your workflow has multiple layers of protection—dual card recording, on-site & offsite backups, and cloud storage—you sleep better at night. You know that no matter what happens, your clients’ stories are safe. In the end, reliability is what clients remember most and sets a professional photographer apart. The photos you take become part of their lives. Your job is to make sure those memories never vanish.

Oscar Worthy Weddings – Sara Sganga

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Sara Sganga is among a few photographers who manage to capture the poetry of love in a cinematic but also deeply intimate and human way. An internationally acclaimed and award-winning wedding photographer based in Italy, her work is a masterclass in emotion, light, and storytelling, transcending traditional wedding documentation. With a background steeped in fine art and an eye for authentic moments, she has photographed celebrations across continents, bringing an unmistakable blend of Italian elegance and emotional honesty to every frame.

Asian Photography spoke to her about blending cinematic & journalistic styles, the future and more. Excerpts:

What’s your strategy for capturing the emotions of the day while still keeping things visually polished and editorial-worthy?

Emotion is the heart of every wedding. My style blends documentary and editorial photography. I observe attentively and gently guide my subjects, creating a serene atmosphere where every gesture, glance, and smile can unfold naturally. In this delicate balance between spontaneity and direction, images are born that are both authentic and refined, infused with emotion and meaning.

My focus lies in the interplay of light, composition, and atmosphere and I love to transform genuine moments into photographs that speak an editorial and cinematic language. My goal is that each frame can tell the story of the day with elegance and harmony, celebrating details, emotions, and human connection.

The result is a visual narrative that honours love in all its nuances, where spontaneity and sophistication coexist effortlessly. Every image reflects the couple’s personality, style, and bonds, and obviously captures precious moments, turning them into unforgettable memories.

In your work we see a vibrant use of natural light and colour. How much of your style is determined in-camera, and how much comes from post-production?

Light is the heartbeat of my work. I strive to capture each moment, glance, and gesture directly in-camera, following how the light embraces people, caresses architecture, and transforms its surroundings. Growing up in Italy, I studied the great Renaissance and Baroque masters—particularly Caravaggio—whose extraordinary use of chiaroscuro taught me to shape light and shadow to evoke depth, emotion, and poetry. That lesson continues to guide every frame I take, transforming reality into something almost painterly. I also embrace artificial light, often using flash creatively—as a subtle fill, a striking backlight, or a way to enhance contrast and make colours come alive with greater intensity and drama.

Post-production plays only a subtle role—enhancing tones, colours, and atmosphere without ever betraying the authenticity of the moment. My style is “true to tone” and emerges from this living dialogue between natural light and editorial refinement, and a true to tone image never gets old and goes beyond trends. It’s timeless.

Looking at your portfolio we can sense a consistency in mood. How has your signature style evolved since you began shooting weddings, and what drives that evolution today?

My photography has always been rooted in emotion—in the desire to tell stories of genuine connection and authenticity. My style at the beginning was totally documentary and my approach was to be in silence and let the moments happen. Over time, that emotional foundation has evolved through a deep pursuit of aesthetic balance and visual harmony. Now my photography blends documentary-style (because I love real, candid moments) and the research of the Great Beauty. Even in reportage, nothing is left to chance: every tone, line, and composition arises from a passionate study of light, form, and colour.

I believe the strength of an image lies in the harmony between emotion and intention. Each photograph is a dialogue with my subjects, between sensitivity and structure, spontaneity and precision. Even the presentation of my work—from my portfolio to my social presence—reflects this vision. Everything is thoughtfully designed to convey a sense of identity and coherence. The same moment can be photographed by many, but what makes it personal is our own vision.

Do you have an image you’ve shot that you feel is your magnum opus?

I’m highly self-critical and truly believe that my most beautiful photograph has yet to be taken. That awareness keeps me searching for a more honest light, a truer gesture, a deeper emotion. Every wedding is an opportunity to grow, to refine my sensitivity, and to get closer to that ideal image I carry within me.

Some photographs capture the perfect union of light, timing, and emotion, but I never see them as definitive. I believe the beauty of photography lies in its constant evolution—in the desire to go beyond, to tell the essence of someone even more truthfully. This endless pursuit keeps my inspiration alive and turns every image into a step toward my next, possible, most beautiful photograph.

How do you see your work evolving over the next few years? Any new styles/ techniques/creative directions you’re excited to explore?

I started in this world at 16 years old, and now I am 33. Photography, like people and every art form, is in constant evolution. It is a living language that changes with us, with our experiences, and with the sensitivity we develop over time. I deeply believe in the need to challenge one’s limits, to question oneself, and to continually seek new perspectives from which to observe beauty.

In the years ahead, I want to keep studying, experimenting, and letting myself be inspired by people, light, movement, and genuine emotion. I’m especially drawn to deepening the dialogue between fashion photography and the art of weddings, to create imagery that feels ever more narrative, refined, and contemporary.

My evolution will continue to be guided by curiosity, discipline, and passion—the forces that drive me not to chase perfection, but to seek essence: that quality which makes every image alive, resonant, and capable of standing the test of time.

OM SYSTEM Re-enters Indian Market, Launches OM-5 Mark II Camera & 50-200mm Lens

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OM SYSTEM (formerly Olympus) has announced the launch of two new products in India – the OM-5 Mark II interchangeable lens camera and the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 50-200mm F2.8 IS PRO lens. The products are aimed at wildlife, macro, birding, landscape, travel, and street photography.

The OM-5 Mark II builds on the OM-5 series, offering upgrades based on user feedback. Compact and lightweight, it features splash, dust, and IPX53 freeze-proof protection certified to -10°C. The model includes 5-axis image stabilisation and a redesigned grip for improved handling.

The M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 50-200mm F2.8 IS PRO lens covers a 100-400mm equivalent focal range with a constant F2.8 aperture. The lens supports 5-axis sync image stabilisation, enabling up to 7 steps of stabilisation for handheld shooting at long focal lengths.

Both launches coincide with the festive season in India. The OM-5 Mark II with a 14-150mm kit lens is priced at ₹1,39,990 and will be available from 18 September 2025, bundled with complimentary 10×50 binoculars worth ₹14,990 as part of the launch offer. The M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 50-200mm F2.8 IS PRO lens will be available from 1 October 2025 on an order basis, priced at ₹3,29,990.

Alongside the launches, OM SYSTEM also announced its annual APAC photography competition, running from October to January, with results declared in March each year.

Using Black & White to Highlight Emotion in Indian Festivals

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When you imagine festivals, especially in India, all you can see is a wall of colours. They’re vibrant, highly energetic and it is really easy to get overwhelmed by all the colours around you, sometimes making it difficult to pick and choose what to shoot. And this is where you can do something while shooting that will change your perspective and give you an opportunity to fine-tune your technical and storytelling prowess—shoot black and white. Yes, colours can sometimes be distracting, so you can choose to shoot them—however, it’s not as easy as changing the colour profile to monochrome and going on about the day. In this article we’ll illustrate why monochrome might be the solution to your stagnant photography style, how it might help you elevate your storytelling skills and more.

The Power of Monochrome

Black and white photography has long been a staple of documentary and fine art photography, allowing the photographer to distill the essence of a moment, unencumbered by the distractions of colour. In the context of Indian festivals, this monochrome aesthetic can be particularly effective in capturing the emotional resonance of these events. By eliminating the riot of colours that often characterises these celebrations, black and white photography can focus the viewer’s attention on the faces, expressions, and body language of the participants, revealing the underlying emotions that drive these festivities.

Capturing Emotion in the Moment

Indian festivals are, by their very nature, emotional experiences. Whether it’s the fervour of a Durga Puja pandal, the reverent atmosphere of a Ganesh Chaturthi procession, or the unbridled joy of a Holi celebration, these events are characterised by intense emotions—devotion, excitement, elation, and sometimes, even sadness. Black and white photography is uniquely suited to capturing these emotions, as it allows the photographer to freeze the moment, revealing the subtleties of human expression that might be lost in a colour image.

Conveying the Intimacy of the Moment

One of the key advantages of black and white photography is its ability to convey a sense of intimacy and immediacy. By removing the distractions of colour, the viewer is drawn into the image, forced to focus on the subject’s expression, posture, and surroundings. In the context of Indian festivals, this can be particularly effective in capturing the quiet moments—a young girl’s reverent gaze as she prays to the goddess, an elderly man’s tears of joy as he watches his grandchildren celebrate Holi, or a couple’s tender exchange as they participate in a traditional wedding ritual.

Highlighting Social and Cultural Narratives

Indian festivals are not just emotional experiences; they are also deeply rooted in the country’s social and cultural fabric. Black and white photography can be used to highlight these underlying narratives, revealing the complex dynamics that shape these celebrations. For instance, a photograph of a group of women performing a traditional dance during a Navratri celebration can convey the sense of community and solidarity that defines these events, while an image of a young boy watching a Ram Lila performance can capture the passing down of cultural traditions from one generation to the next.

The Technical Challenges

While black and white photography can be a powerful tool for capturing the emotional essence of Indian festivals, it is not without its technical challenges. In particular, the high-contrast lighting that often characterises these events can be difficult to manage, requiring the photographer to be skilled in capturing a wide dynamic range. Additionally, the fast-paced nature of these celebrations demands a high degree of technical proficiency, as the photographer must be able to work quickly and decisively to capture the fleeting moments that define these events.

You NEED to know your gear through-and-through. Run through some scenarios beforehand because moments happen on the field in a split second which might not happen again. Or if your intent is to shoot in a photojournalistic style, then that particular moment is gone, and can’t be recreated. Carry a flash on your camera and keep it off because there are situations where you might need to use it as a fill, and reaching out for it during the moment means it’ll be gone before you’re ready to shoot.

Tips To Shoot

Focus on capturing raw emotions rather than just the grandeur of the event. The viewer’s eye is drawn to expressions, gestures, and contrasts, so pay attention to faces in prayer, laughter, or deep concentration. Frame your shots around storytelling moments—a wrinkled hand holding Diyas, children’s wide-eyed wonder during processions, or the solemnity of devotees in crowded temples. Here are a few tips:

Composition Tips

Get close and frame tight on faces, hands, or eyes—details reveal emotion more powerfully in B&W.
Use leading lines from Rangolis, temple architecture, or procession paths to guide attention toward subjects.
Look for layering—foreground silhouettes, middle-ground action, and background context—to give depth.
Negative space (like smoke, sky, or plain walls) can isolate emotion-filled subjects effectively.

Technique Tips

Shoot in Monochrome profile (or simulation) but shoot RAW alongside JPEG. This gives you full control over tonal adjustments in post, while giving you a taste of the final product.
Use spot metering on faces to preserve emotional highlights without being distracted by bright decorations. The most important detail you want to see is the locus of the story you want to tell.
Leverage shadows and high-contrast light to create drama, don’t shy away from underexposing slightly. This also helps preserve details in the highlights while increasing dynamic range.
Work with wider apertures (f/1.8–f/2.8) to blur distractions in chaotic festival environments. But don’t shy away from using deep depth of field (f/4-f/8) and use deep, layered compositions to describe more of the scene.
Anticipate emotion. Observe rhythms of rituals or processions so you’re ready when moments happen.
Switch to continuous low burst mode and turn on pre-capture, because perhaps your timing of pressing the button might not be right, but you’ll still preserve the moment.

Gear Tips

A fast prime lens (35mm or 50mm f/1.4) is excellent for intimate, emotion-driven shots. The 35 especially gives you ample opportunity to capture emotions and depth while also preserving the background without distortion from wide-angle lenses.
A zoom (24-70mm/24-105mm) helps adapt quickly in crowded festival settings without losing the moment.
If shooting handheld in low light, a camera/lens with good stabilisation will help avoid motion blur. Combine this with faster lenses for tack sharp shots.
Consider using smaller camera setups. You might not get enough space, so big bodies and long lenses won’t be the best choice to shoot, especially in tight spaces.
A circular polariser can sometimes help control reflections and enhance textures, useful even for B&W conversions. Better to have it and not want it vs want it and not have it.

What’s Next?

Indian festivals are a riot of colours, sounds, and emotions that can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, easily overwhelming your senses. However, by using black and white photography, it is possible to strip away the distractions of colour and tap into the raw emotions that underlie these joyous occasions. Whether it’s capturing the intimacy of a quiet moment, highlighting the social and cultural narratives that shape these celebrations, or simply conveying the unbridled joy of a festive occasion, black and white photography offers a powerful tool for storytelling, one that can reveal the deeper, more poignant truths that lie beneath the surface of these vibrant events. As we continue to navigate the complexities of Indian culture and society, the use of black and white photography to highlight emotion in Indian festivals offers a unique perspective, one that can help us connect with the very heart of these celebrations.

Sigma 17-40mm F/1.8 Art Lens Review

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Watch our video review here

One of the main reasons people invest in a full-frame camera is for the benefit of full-frame lenses. And as many photographers know, APS-C lenses don’t always measure up. But Sigma is aiming to change that with its new 17-40mm F1.8. Since the claim is bold, we had to test it ourselves.
This is the Sigma 17-40mm F1.8 DC Art, priced at ₹78,000. This lens follows the legacy of Sigma’s iconic 18-35mm F1.8,
launched nearly a decade ago. In this review, we’ll walk you through its performance and whether it’s worth the upgrade.

APS-C on a Full Frame

For this review, we tested the lens on a Sony A7 IV in crop mode (1.5x). You might wonder why—but this also makes sense for newer APS-C bodies like Sony A6600 or Fujifilm XT-5. The lens is available in multiple mounts including Sony E, Fujifilm X, Canon RF and Lumix L.

Look, Build & Feel

As expected from Sigma’s Art series, the build quality is excellent. The lens feels solid in the hand, weighing 535 grams, and is built primarily from metal. Key features include:

Aperture ring with a click/de-click option
Aperture auto-lock switch
Two programmable buttons (top and side)
AF/MF switch
67mm filter thread
Locking lens hood (standard for Sigma)

It also comes with a metal mount, weather sealing, and “Made in Japan” proudly etched on it. The zoom is internal, meaning the balance doesn’t shift while changing focal lengths—perfect if you’re planning to use it on a gimbal. Minimum focus distance is 28cm, giving you a bit of macro flexibility.

Image Quality

As mentioned earlier we tested this on the Sony A74 body in crop mode with a 1.5x. But we also have featured some images with the A6400 APSC camera – so watch the credits pic info carefully. The 17-40mm on APSC translates to approximately 26 to 60 mm in full frame equivalence which makes this lens versatile and it comes very close to the 24-70mm full frame lens. The F/1.8 aperture on APSC gives you a full frame equivalent depth of field of F/2.8.

The pics in daylight are very vibrant, well saturated and speaks for the quality of the lens. The sharpness and detailing are also good, although occasionally in depth it does add some softness to the sides. What was surprising was that this lens was able to provide great depth – similar to a full frame camera and I think that is its good quality.

Autofocus

While on this subject – lets speak about the autofocus as well. I was impressed by its performance. In our testing the auto focus was very quick both in the low and high focal range. Even with subjects in the foreground the lens focuses fast and delivers sharp results – so that was good to see. The motors are also silent, which adds to the shooting experience and can be important if you want to shoot without getting noticed. In video as well the focusing was smooth and breathing is very minimal, which scores this lens another point in the video category.

Lowlight

As good as the daylight performance was – the lowlight performance was also impressive. Some images were shot with the Sony A6400 – and for most part the images were pretty good. The sharpness and detailing were evident and even in dimly lit conditions the images were decent. Yes occasional detailing while zooming in was missing and some colour shifting was noticed, although colour shifting is more for a sensor.

Macro/Close-up

This lens has a minimum focus distance of 28cm, so this allows you to shoot pseudo macro images and the images are decent. The images in this case are ok. I wouldn’t say it’s a big bonus, but in case if you want to use it then you at-least have an option to shoot with.

Bokeh

Being an F/1.8 lens, at full frame it is equivalent at F/2.8 depth of field. The bokeh is nice to look at, it’s a mix of round and cat’s eyes depending on how light is falling on the subject. I felt the bokeh was better in the lowlight than in daylight in our testing time. But overall a decent performance in this regard.

CA Value

We ran it through Quick MTF and got a score of 0.90. That it fairly high – but in real world application, it is difficult to get that.

Flare and Ghosting

The flaring and ghosting performance of the lens was very impressive. Even in extreme lowlight and at a wide aperture, the lens displayed minimal flaring and ghosting. Yes occasionally there was a slight hint. But nothing of concern.

Conclusion

So what do we think about the Sigma 17-40mm F/1.8 Art lens? The predecessor to this lens was launched nearly a decade back. And it was time that Sigma offered a new replacement. And in most parts I think it delivers well. The focal length is now closer to a full frame 24-70 F/2.8 standard zoom lens. Yes, it is not all great – for instance the CA performance could be better and the lowlight has some room for improvement as well.
But what Sigma is able to deliver is a good daylight performance that it closer to a full frame 24-70 lens. And that I think for any APS-C shooter, this is a vital and worthy upgrade from a kit lens.
Priced at around ₹78,000 this definitely will feel like a full frame lens on your wallet as well. However, if you are looking forward to shooting professional level content on your APSC camera without upgrading to full frame bodies then this, we would say, is an easy choice.

Shooting Ganpati Festival From Aagman to Visarjan

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The Ganpati festival is one of the most vibrant celebrations in India. Spanning ten days, it marks the arrival of Lord Ganesha into homes and communities, followed by processions and the final immersion in water. For photographers, the festival offers an unmatched opportunity to capture emotions, rituals, and culture in its purest form. Shooting Ganpati from the very beginning, known as Aagman or arrival, until the emotional conclusion at Visarjan is not just about clicking pictures. It is about telling the story of devotion, colour, and community spirit that unfolds before your eyes.

Preparing for the Festival

Before you lift the camera, preparation is key. The Ganpati festival is crowded, chaotic, and filled with movement. Plan your gear carefully. A wide-angle lens works wonders for capturing the scale of processions and pandals. A 35mm or 50mm prime lens is excellent for portraits of devotees, while a telephoto zoom (70-200 for example) helps isolate details when you cannot move close, and add compression to the scene. Carry extra memory cards and batteries, because opportunities appear at every turn.

It is equally important to understand the rituals. Speak with locals or organisers in advance. Knowing when the idol arrives, when Aarti takes place, and how the immersion will unfold helps you anticipate moments instead of reacting to them. Being aware of cultural sensitivities ensures you do not interrupt prayers or block devotees during key ceremonies.

Capturing Aagman – The Arrival

The festival begins with the Aagman procession, when the idol of Lord Ganesha is brought to homes or pandals. This is one of the most photogenic stages, filled with drumming, chanting, and dancing. Focus on the faces of the people carrying the idol. Their expressions reveal pride, responsibility, and devotion. Wide shots of the crowd create context, but do not miss the chance to step in closer for intimate details like a child showering flowers or an elder offering prayers.

Natural light during Aagman can be tricky because the processions often take place in the evening or at night. A fast lens with a wide aperture helps in low light. High ISO performance of modern cameras allows you to preserve the atmosphere without using a flash, which can distract or feel intrusive. If you must use artificial light, diffuse it to maintain softness.

The Pandal Experience

Once the idol is installed, the pandal becomes the heart of celebration. This is where photographers can spend hours observing and documenting rituals. Every pandal is unique in its decoration, and shooting wide frames highlights the craftsmanship of artisans who build elaborate backdrops. Step closer to capture offerings like Modaks, coconuts, and garlands that symbolise devotion.

Portraits here take on deeper meaning. Families gather together, women dress in traditional sarees, and children look in awe at the deity. When shooting portraits, be respectful and seek permission. A simple smile and nod can go a long way. Consider working in black and white for certain frames to emphasise emotion over colour, especially during quiet moments of prayer.

Crowds inside pandals can be overwhelming. Look for elevated positions or corners where you can shoot without blocking the flow of people. Patience is key. Sometimes waiting in one spot allows you to capture a natural alignment of devotees, priests, and the idol in a single frame.

Rituals and Aarti

Daily rituals such as Aarti are powerful moments filled with energy. Flames of oil lamps, rhythmic chants, and clapping hands create an environment that challenges your technical skills. The firelight is warm and flickering, so expose carefully to retain highlights. Focus on the lamp or the expressions of devotees holding it. Including multiple layers in your frame, such as the priest, the idol, and the crowd, helps narrate the collective participation.

Sound is integral to the Ganpati festival, and while photography cannot capture it, your images can imply it. Photograph drummers mid-beat, cymbals clashing, and singers with mouths wide open. Movement blur can be used creatively to convey rhythm. A slightly slower shutter speed while panning can turn drummers into dynamic streaks of colour and motion.

Street Scenes Around Ganpati

Beyond pandals, the streets themselves tell stories. Vendors sell flowers, sweets, and souvenirs. Artisans paint idols in small workshops. Children play with toy drums and balloons. These candid moments add context to your coverage. Use a documentary approach, blending into the crowd and waiting for authentic interactions.

Street photography during Ganpati requires awareness of light and shadow. Narrow lanes may create high contrast conditions. Expose for the highlights, but allow some areas of shadow to retain depth. Reflections in water or glass can also provide creative frames.

The Journey of Visarjan

The emotional peak of the festival comes with Visarjan, the immersion of the idol. Processions are louder, grander, and filled with contrasting emotions of joy and sorrow. Wide shots of massive crowds carrying idols create a sense of scale, while close-ups of teary-eyed devotees reveal intimacy.

At Visarjan, movement is constant. Processions may last hours, with dancing, chanting, and music filling the streets. A wide-angle lens helps capture the energy of groups dancing together. To avoid chaotic frames, look for repeating patterns such as raised hands, synchronised drummers, or colourful powders in the air.

When the idol finally reaches the water, the atmosphere shifts. The loudness gives way to moments of silence as devotees bid farewell. This is when you can switch to a quieter, more reflective style of photography. Silhouettes of the idol against the water or the horizon are powerful images. Children watching from their parents’ shoulders or elders folding hands in prayer capture the emotion of parting.

Be cautious around water during Visarjan. Keep gear protected with waterproof covers and carry minimal equipment. The energy and crowd density can be overwhelming, so safety must always come first.

Storytelling Through Sequencing

Once the festival concludes, the task of storytelling begins. Review your images not as single frames, but as a sequence. Start with the anticipation of Aagman, move through rituals and community interactions, and end with the bittersweet farewell of Visarjan. Including wide shots, medium shots, and close-ups ensures variety. Look for a balance of celebratory and emotional moments, because the Ganpati festival is as much about joy as it is about devotion.

Editing plays a vital role. Do not oversaturate colours, because authenticity matters. Sometimes muted tones highlight raw emotions better. For a cohesive series, maintain consistency in your colour grading or black and white conversions.

Respect and Responsibility

Photographing Ganpati is a privilege. Remember that for devotees this is not just an event, but a deeply spiritual experience. Respect boundaries, avoid obstructing rituals, and never treat people as mere subjects. Offering a copy of your photo to families or organisers is a simple gesture of gratitude.

Also be mindful of the environment. Immersions place stress on rivers and seas, and many communities now embrace eco-friendly idols. Documenting these efforts can help raise awareness about sustainability. As a photographer, you carry the power not only to record culture, but also to influence positive change.

Conclusion

From the joyous arrival of Aagman to the emotional farewell of Visarjan, the Ganpati festival is a complete journey. For photographers, it offers lessons in anticipation, patience, and respect. Every frame has the potential to tell a story, whether it is the sparkle in a child’s eyes or the grandeur of thousands walking together. Shooting Ganpati is not just about capturing images. It is about experiencing a festival where devotion and celebration meet, and translating that experience into photographs that will resonate long after the drums fall silent.

Instagram’s iPad App Is Finally Here!

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Instagram has officially launched a dedicated app for iPad, responding to long-standing user demand. The new version introduces features tailored for the larger screen, including a fresh layout designed to improve browsing and multitasking.

When opening the app, users land directly in Reels, bringing short-form video to the forefront on a bigger display. A new “Following” tab makes it easier to track updates from favourite accounts, while enhanced layouts allow smoother access to messages and notifications. Reels also play in full size while users expand the comments section, ensuring uninterrupted viewing alongside real-time reactions.

The iPad app is available now on the App Store, aiming to provide a more complete Instagram experience for creators and casual users alike.

Nikon Launches Z f in Silver

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Nikon India has announced a silver version of its full-frame camera, the Nikon Z f. The new model features a finish reminiscent of classic film-era cameras.

In addition to the silver body, six new Premium Exterior colour options including Indigo Blue, Red, Green, Orange, Grey, and Brown are available. Owners can request a change of body covering through the MyNikon App, after which the camera can be sent to a Nikon service centre for customization.

The Z f will also gain a Film Grain feature via a planned firmware update in 2025. This function will allow users to add grain to photos and videos, with adjustable grain size and strength, offering a film-like appearance. Combined with Picture Controls and Imaging Recipes, it expands the camera’s creative options.

The Nikon Z f Silver is priced at ₹1,76,995, same as the original Z f in black.

Hahnemühle Debuts Hemp Gloss Baryta with Prints for Wildlife’s 2025 Edition Hope

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Hahnemühle continues its partnership with Prints for Wildlife, the global conservation initiative that has raised over $2.1 million USD since 2020. The 2025 campaign, titled “Edition Hope”, will exclusively debut Hemp Gloss Baryta, Hahnemühle’s new sustainable fine art paper.

Building on the success of previous editions printed on Hahnemühle Hemp, Edition Hope features contributions from 240+ photographers worldwide, offering limited-edition wildlife and nature prints for one month only. All proceeds (after printing and handling) go directly to nonprofits protecting wildlife and habitats, with new partners including Conservation International.

Hemp Gloss Baryta combines eco-friendly hemp fibres with a refined glossy baryta surface, delivering deep blacks, rich contrasts, and vibrant colours while minimising environmental impact. Before its official launch in October 2025, the paper will be showcased exclusively through this campaign, produced by Hahnemühle Certified Studio ThePrintSpace in the USA, UK, and Germany.

Launching August 21, 2025, Edition Hope presents powerful imagery ranging from landscapes to intimate wildlife portraits and will conclude on September 9th. Collectors can purchase prints at www.printsforwildlife.org, supporting both art and critical conservation efforts worldwide.