Last week, we met with young and friendly photographer Ravishkar Sonoo who relates to us his accomplishments so far in his career, his travel experiences and his wish for 2021.
1)Can you give us an insight into what inspired you to become a photographer?
It all started with my uncle, who was passionate of photography and among my family, I was the only one who followed his path. I got my first professional camera from my dad in 2013 and I started practicing by myself with the help of my friends. After completing my HSC, I decided to engage in a career of photography. In 2015, I was employed by Clique Photography Mauritius, where I worked as assistant photographer and learnt the various techniques of photography. The next year, I was given my chance to be the main photographer and my manager was so impressed by my photography skills that I was always sent to cover important events by my company.
In 2017, I decided to open my own business and I can still recall the first contract I received which was a photoshoot in a villa. The owner was so thrilled of the outcome of my work that he invited me in his art gallery In Belgium, where I got the chance to collaborate with international artist. And I can proudly say that I am the only Mauritian who got the privilege to visit the art gallery, which was definitely a good experience.
The year after, during the month of January, I got the opportunity to work on a cruise as junior photographer, which felt like jumping into a completely different environment, but I managed to achieve success through an extensive training, which lead to several promotions and ending as Lead Photographer after eight months. I also had the opportunity, during a second contract, to do a full training course in the photo lab department and in September 2019, I was promoted to Photo Lab Technician, where I was responsible for the entire photo production on the cruise and managed a team of 9 photographers.
In between each contract, I loved coming back to my motherland, where I was still running my business and was doing photoshoot for companies like Streat Ltd, Big Willy’s, Le Haka and Lakaz.
2)They say to be a very good photographer, you have to have a keen eye, which means you should be able to see a situation that nobody else can see. So, can you tell us about the best photo you clicked or covered?
My favorite photo is definitely one that I took from the cruise, while it was approaching its final destination in New York and, along with some of my friends, we took our tripod and we took a long exposure photo, which was simply amazing. The people who had been able to experience this view were all amazed.
3)A photographer likes to travel and capture loads of good pictures. Can you tell us your top five countries which you would want to visit and take pictures of after this year of a pandemic?
During those two years on cruise, I had the opportunity to visit so many countries and beautiful places. To answer your question, I would say Spain, Portugal, Santorini and Alaska. I may even give you a bonus sixth which will be New Zealand (laughs).
4) Ravishkar, for the people who would like to engage you as their photographer for different events, what will be the best way to get in touch with you?
I would tell them to go on my Facebook page, Ravishkar Sonoo Photographer or my Instagram, ravishkar sonoo, and send me a private message, which I would be happy to reply.
5)Do you have the last word to say to our readers?
To end this interview, I would like to share a quote which I love and which I put in my everyday life:
“ Take life day by day and be grateful for the little things. Don’t get caught up in what you can’t control. FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE. “
And finally, I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2021.
