INTERVIEW
November 30, 2020
NEW NORMAL
Photography by Adesh Gaur
Interview by Melanie Meggs
Photography is a visual art form that captures moments and emotions, freezing them in time and space. It is an incredibly powerful medium to tell stories and evoke emotions. Now, more than ever, we have a desire to look at the world and the people around us differently.
Enter Adesh Gaur, an award-winning photographer based in Uttar Pradesh, India. Adesh has developed a passion for photography since 2018, turning it into his full-time career. His focus lies on telling humanist stories while delivering powerful visual storytelling through documentary and fine art photography. His images capture the nuances of life and its complexities, as seen through his lens.
Adesh's objective is to capture moments in time, highlighting the beauty and poignancy of everyday life. Through his photographs he wants to portray a powerful narrative about the places and people he encounters on his journey. To him, photography isn't just about taking pictures but also about capturing stories and emotions that will hopefully evoke empathy and understanding in viewers.
“As we all know, the whole world is struggling with Coronavirus. It’s very difficult to live in a middle-class family. In this collection, I want to state and show you how the middle-class people live and work, despite all their troubles. Because of Coronavirus, these laborers had to go back to their own homes. I documented this series in Kanpur Cement Warehouse, in India, post Lockdown.”
IN CONVERSATION WITH ADESH GAUR
THE PICTORIAL LIST: Adesh, where do you find your inspiration to photograph?
ADESH GAUR: I am inspired by many and everywhere.
TPL: Is there anything you want to express through your photography?
AG: As we all know there's a story behind every picture and I love to share stories through my lens.
The places attract me much where a good story can be made and sometimes I love to take portraits of those people whose eyes have a different shine from others.
TPL: Do you prefer to photograph alone or with friends?
AG: I shoot most often with friends, sometimes it's good if you are a beginner to learn from others. But I also love to shoot alone so I can focus.
TPL: Who are your favourite artists and photographers?
AG: Steve McCurry, Alan Schaller, Daniel Milnor, Raghu Rai and Raghubir Singh.
TPL: Where is your favourite place to photograph?
AG: Everywhere I can get a good documentary photo.
TPL: How does the equipment you use help you in achieving your vision in your photography?
AG: It's all about observation, but camera also matters. I love to shoot with my Canon camera. When I shoot portraits I love to use prime lenses and for wide shots I use 18-55mm lenses.
TPL: Are there any special projects you are currently working on that you would like to let everyone know about?
AG: Yes it is about migrants labour. But because of the Coronavirus I haven't been able to get out of the house for the six months, but as soon as things return to normal, I'll get back and get better stories.
TPL: What are some of your goals as an artist? Where do you see yourself or hope to see yourself in five years?
AG: My goal is to become a photojournalist. In the coming five years I see myself as a better photographer who will be moving forward with many achievements.
TPL: “When I am not out photographing, I (like to)…
AG: Read, watch documentaries and travel.”
