Today we’d like to introduce you to Tesh D Patel.
Tesh, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My passion has always been landscape and floral photography. Living in Dallas it is hard to shoot much landscape without travelling a few hours, so I decided to step out of my comfort zone and attend a portrait workshop a little over 2 years ago. The workshop was hosted by Omar Ramos, and had he not been so welcoming and patient in teaching a total newbie, I probably would not have an interest in shooting portraits today.
I believe my most valuable assets in photography is not my equipment, but the network and relationships I have built with my peers and fellow creatives. They are the ones who I can reach out to at any time and ask questions, bounce some ideas around with or have them explain a new technique to me. Most importantly, they are the ones who will provide me with honest feedback when asked.
We are always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we have spoken with enough people to know that it is not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I am very introverted by nature, so I find it much easier to be behind the camera than in front of it. Portrait photography has helped me, since it requires me to communicate with others, direct them and engage with them during our sessions.
One of my biggest challenges has been learning to believe in myself, I constantly compare myself to others and convince myself that I don’t deserve an opportunity if one is presented, because I am good enough. Through the support of my family, friends, and peers, I have become better at managing these challenges and have more confidence and less uncertainty.
We would love to hear more about your work.
Being a self-taught photographer, I love to shoot based on what looks and feels right instead of worry about following the rules of photography. Because of this, I do not have a defined style or niche, I love to experiment and have fun with every shoot. While it can be a challenge, I want each session to stand on its own.
What were you like growing up?
My journey into photography was influenced very early on in my childhood. Being born and raised in a modest blue-collar family in the UK, I remember not having much money. What I do have are lots of memories, memories such as birthdays, vacations, and even just routine day to day activities. These memories are in the form of photographs and were possible all because of my parents 110 film camera. I still have many of those photos and even today they allow me to relive moments of my childhood.
I have always had a creative side, even as a young kid I loved to draw. My art and creativity took a rear seat while attending college, getting my first job, and then getting married. It was not until my wife and I had our first child that I purchased my first digital point and shoot camera. I loved playing “photographer,” even if all I was doing was taking snapshots. This experience rekindled my passion for photography. I have been shooting for a little over two years and even today I do not regard myself as a seasoned photographer, I have plenty to learn still to refine and hone my skills.
Contact Info:
- Email: teshdpatel@outlook.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/teshdpatel
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/teshsphotos/
Image Credit:
Model and HMUA-Kristi Lynn, Workshop by Omar Ramos (the one that started it all)
Model-Beth Chousand, HMUA-Vanita Patel
Model- Phuong Anh Tran, Workshop by Kelvin Phan
Model-Krisy Roulette, HMUA-Maira Barbie Mondragon
Model-Anjali Patel, HMUA-Vanita Patel
Model and HMUA- Victoria Skellington
Model and HMUA- Ashley Jean
Model and HMUA- Aura Ortiz
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