In a quiet area of Suva, Fiji, an innovative transformation in photography is taking place. Hemal Khatri, who began his journey with just a camera and a dream, now runs a successful photography studio known as Special Moments Photography & Cinematography Studio. This is the story of his evolution from sharing a workspace with his father to establishing a cutting-edge studio that meets various photography needs.
Khatri’s path into photography was far from typical. After starting a Diploma in IT Networking, he struggled to find work in a competitive job market. The COVID-19 pandemic became a crucial turning point for him. With fewer job opportunities and a rekindled passion for photography, Khatri decided to turn his hobby into a profession. “I had a camera before, a friend’s camera actually,” he reflected. “Photography started as a hobby, but when I saw its potential, I thought, why not turn it into a business?” With determination and a camera in hand, he began freelancing, specializing in corporate shoots and modeling portfolios. His studio, initially set up in his father’s tailoring shop, marked the first step in a journey that would exceed his expectations.
As Khatri’s ambitions expanded, so did his workspace. By 2022, he transitioned to a dedicated studio space. “This wall took almost three weeks to build,” he explained, referring to a setup that creates an optical illusion of infinity. He utilized online tutorials and sought advice from professionals to realize his creative vision. Khatri’s studio reflects his commitment and innovative spirit, featuring ample space for large groups and a variety of backgrounds and props to distinguish his services.
One of Khatri’s standout principles is his focus on uncovering hidden talent. “I believe everyone has a hidden talent,” he stated. Instead of exclusively featuring traditional models, Khatri showcases individuals who may not fit the usual modeling criteria, particularly benefiting clients in the garment industry ready to present fresh faces in their collections.
Despite facing challenges, including space limitations in his father’s shop, Khatri managed to adapt and grow. He acknowledged that he couldn’t provide the services he wanted due to space constraints but carefully planned and invested in a larger studio. Initially charging a modest rate of $90 per hour, he has adjusted his pricing to align with expanded services and overhead costs while still striving to keep his work accessible.
Khatri’s aspirations go beyond traditional photography. He is exploring videography, graphic design, and even podcasting. “I want to create a space where people can not only get their photos taken but also have a podcast recorded,” he mentioned. His studio has evolved into a multifunctional area to accommodate a variety of client needs.
Client satisfaction is central to Khatri’s philosophy. He tailors each session to align with the client’s vision, offering diverse backgrounds for the perfect shot. “I prefer working alone,” he noted. “It helps me maintain control and ensure everything runs smoothly.”
Looking ahead, Khatri expresses enthusiasm for further growth and diversification. He plans to branch into new fields and consistently 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 exploring different genres.”
As he continues to innovate and expand, Khatri views his studio as a symbol of what can be achieved through passion and determination. In the bustling city of Suva, Special Moments Photography & Cinematography Studio serves not only as a venue for capturing memories but also as a space where dreams are realized and everyday individuals become remarkable figures.