In a quiet part of Suva, Fiji, a transformative journey in photography is taking place. Hemal Khatri, who began with just a camera and a dream, now runs a successful photography studio named Special Moments Photography & Cinematography Studio. His path started in a shared space with his father and has evolved into a state-of-the-art facility that meets various photographic needs.
Khatri’s entry into photography was far from traditional. He initially studied IT Networking but struggled to find a job in a competitive market. The COVID-19 pandemic became a turning point for him. With job opportunities dwindling and a renewed passion for photography, he made the bold choice to turn a hobby into a career. “I had a friend’s camera before,” Khatri shared. “Photography started as a hobby, but when I saw its potential, I decided to make it a business.”
Equipped with determination and a camera, he began freelancing with a focus on corporate photography and modeling portfolios. His studio began in his father’s tailoring shop, marking the start of a journey that would exceed his expectations.
From the confines of the tailoring shop, Khatri’s ambitions flourished. By 2022, he had moved into his own dedicated studio space. “This wall took almost three weeks to build,” he noted, highlighting a setup designed to create an optical illusion of infinity. The studio reflects his innovation and commitment, featuring expansive spaces and various backgrounds and props, offering clients a full range of services from high-quality photo shoots to custom portraiture.
One of Khatri’s unique philosophies is his dedication to highlighting untapped potential. “I believe everyone has a hidden talent,” he stated. Unlike many studios that focus solely on traditional models, Khatri seeks individuals who may not fit conventional modeling criteria. His studio serves as a platform for new faces, particularly for clients in the garment industry, thus broadening the landscape of fashion photography in Fiji.
However, Khatri’s journey has faced its share of challenges. Initially, space limitations in his father’s shop restricted his ability to conduct larger shoots. “I couldn’t offer what I wanted because of the space,” he explained. Moving to a larger studio required strategic planning and investment. Pricing has also evolved; he started with a reasonable rate of $90 per hour, which has increased to reflect the expanded services and operating costs. Despite this, he is committed to keeping his photography accessible, challenging the notion that professional photography is out of reach.
Khatri’s ambitions extend beyond traditional photography. He is exploring videography, graphic design, and even podcasting. “I want to create a space where people can not only have their photos taken but also record podcasts,” he expressed, describing his studio as a multifunctional space that integrates various forms of media.
Client satisfaction is a top priority for Khatri. He customizes each session to match the client’s vision, offering a selection of backgrounds and settings for the perfect shot. “I prefer working alone,” he said, “as it helps me maintain control and ensure everything runs smoothly.”
Looking forward, Khatri is enthusiastic about growth and diversification. He plans to explore new ventures and continuously enhance his skills. “The key is to stay creative and versatile,” he advises aspiring photographers. “Don’t compare yourself to others; focus on developing your unique style and trying out different genres.”
As he continues to innovate and expand, Khatri sees his studio as a testament to what can be achieved with passion and perseverance. In Suva, Special Moments Photography & Cinematography Studio stands as more than just a place to capture moments; it represents where dreams are realized, and ordinary individuals become exceptional subjects.