Today we’d like to introduce you to Ravi Vachhani.
Ravi, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Honestly, my story isn’t as dramatic and overtly interesting as one would expect. If you asked me a year ago if I enjoyed photography, I’d probably tell you, “yeah, I like to take shots here and there.” But now, everywhere I go, my mind is constantly observing the surroundings and thinking of how great a location it would be for a photo shoot. Growing up, I’d say I’ve always had an interest in taking photographs, but I never really took it seriously. Back then, the majority of my shots would consist primarily of buildings, cars, or landscapes. I had one of those basic Sony Cyber-shot cameras, had it set to Auto and just snapped away. My parents always told me to at least take some pictures with people in them, rather than boring shots of building facades and rolling landscapes.
More recently, within the past year, I found myself gravitating more and more towards portraiture. Frankly, I’m not sure what sparked the change, but I’m really glad I took a dive into photographing people. I invested in a new camera and some gear, and I just can’t put them down now. I feel like I should have my camera with me at all times! During this short time, I transitioned over to portraiture, I’ve seen an exponential growth in my shots. Before with my Cyber-shot, the process of taking pictures would simply be point and shoot. Now I take the time to take more complex shots by utilizing my surroundings, placing objects near/far to me, or ensuring the lighting is just right. I know there is a myriad of things to still learn from other creatives and by continuously shooting, but I’m glad I took this step forward. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the future!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
When it comes to learning and perfecting a craft, I don’t think anyone would say it’s a smooth road. There are obviously lots of unforeseen obstacles that may arise, and prohibit you from producing an effortless ride. One of the biggest challenges for me was to take the time to learn all the settings on the camera. Sure Auto is quick and easy, but why invest in such a nice camera when you can truly learn the ins and outs and create some serious shots! Before, I never understood what it meant to shoot in Manual, Shutter Priority, or Aperture Priority. Now that I know, I’ll never set my mode to Auto ever again! Even though I’ve had my Sony a7R IV for a bit now, I know there is still a lot for me to learn. It takes time to fully understand the mechanics behind the camera, and only by practicing more and more will you get better.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I’m a photographer here in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. I’ve only been doing this for about a year now but have always been into photography growing up. As of now, I specialize in portraits but am working on delving more into other styles, such as proposals, elopements, and weddings. I’ve done a couple of brand photoshoots and have some more in the works right now, but I want to evolve into an all-round photographer. If someone has an idea they want to create, I do my best to help bring that to life.
Overall, I think what I’m most proud of is how much I’ve learned so far on this journey. I didn’t expect things to take off as they did, but within the last few months, I’ve been published twice and have quite a few shoots pending. Of course, with everything going on with COVID-19, things are on a pause, but I’m doing what I can to continue the creativity. I always search for inspiration from other creatives in the area and around the world. During quarantine, I began a short series of “Quarantine Collabs” and Apple FaceTime shoots. I partnered with models within the DFW area and outside, and executed many FaceTime photoshoots, with one that is in the process of being published.
I think one thing that sets me apart from others is that I focus primarily on shooting outside. I view natural lighting as my element, hence the name Visceral Visual Shots (meaning natural, instinctual, intuitive). I’ve shot a few times indoors, but personally, I thoroughly enjoy shooting a lot outdoors more! My favorite times to shoot are early morning and evenings to capture those gorgeous golden hour/blue hour shots.
We always love to ask about the support network – have there been people, perhaps mentors or advisors, who have played a big role in your success?
I’ve definitely had lots of support from so many people around me. I don’t know many of the creatives I follow on a personal basis, but they’ve served as great virtual mentors that have definitely played a role in my success. Not only photographers, but many of the models I’ve worked with are great advocates in what I do, showcasing my work and sharing my shots on their respective platforms.
Along with my parents and family, my coworkers at the office are big supporters, too, telling me I’m going to make it big one day! And I can’t forget my circle of brothers. I’ve been friends with these guys for over a decade, and they’re always hyping me up. They always offer to model for me, but I respectfully decline. Not everyone wants to see that. Lastly, my wife – she’s truly my #1 supporter. From being okay (I think) with me investing in new equipment to advising me on poses during photoshoots, she’s always there telling me I’m doing great. She understands how much I enjoy photography and hopes I expand too much more!
Pricing:
- Portraitures – $135/hr
- Brand Shoots – Starts at $150
- Senior Portraits – Starts at $200
- Family Portraits – Starts at $300
- Proposals – Starts at $350
- Elopements – Starts at $750
- Weddings – Starts at $1,000
Contact Info:
- Website: www.visceralvisualshots.com
- Email: info@visceralvisualshots.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/visceralvisualshots
Image Credit:
Cover photo of me done by: Jacob
@_capturedbyjacob_
Suggest a story: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
