In a quiet corner of Suva, Fiji, a significant transformation in the realm of photography is taking place. Hemal Khatri, who began his journey with just a camera and a vision, now runs a successful photography studio named Special Moments Photography & Cinematography Studio.
Khatri’s path to establishing his studio started in an unconventional way. Originally, he pursued a Diploma in IT Networking, but like many others, he struggled to find employment in a competitive job market. The COVID-19 pandemic emerged as a pivotal moment, prompting him to shift his focus back to photography.
“I had a camera before, a friend’s camera actually. Photography started as a hobby, but when I saw its potential, I thought, why not turn it into a business?” Khatri shared. With determination and his camera, he began freelancing, concentrating on corporate shoots and modeling portfolios. Initially working out of his father’s tailoring shop, this marked the beginning of his journey toward a thriving business.
By 2022, Khatri realized his aspirations by moving into a dedicated studio space, showcasing his growth from a small tailoring shop. He invested effort into designing the studio, including building a wall that creates an optical illusion of infinity. “I studied online tutorials and consulted professionals to make this vision a reality,” Khatri explained.
His studio not only serves as a workspace but also embodies his dedication and creativity. The large area allows him to accommodate diverse groups, and his commitment to offering a variety of backgrounds and props distinguishes his studio from others. Clients can access a full range of services, from high-quality photo shoots to personalized portraiture.
Khatri is passionate about uncovering untapped talent, believing that everyone possesses hidden potential. Unlike many studios that focus solely on traditional models, he welcomes individuals who may not fit the conventional mold. This approach broadens the landscape of fashion photography in Fiji, especially for clients in the garment industry.
However, Khatri’s journey has not been without obstacles. Initially, the limited space in his father’s shop hindered his ability to conduct larger and more varied shoots. Recognizing the need for a larger setting, he made significant efforts to transition to a bigger studio. Pricing also posed challenges, as Khatri began with a modest rate of $90 per hour, which has since increased to reflect his expanded offerings. He aims to keep his services affordable, counteracting the notion that studio photography is excessively expensive.
Khatri is venturing beyond traditional photography, exploring videography, graphic design, and podcasting. “I want to create a space where people can not only get their photos taken but also have a podcast recorded,” he noted, emphasizing his studio’s multifunctional nature.
Client satisfaction is at the core of Khatri’s philosophy. He customizes each session to align with the client’s vision, ensuring a variety of settings and backgrounds are available. Khatri prefers to work independently, maintaining control and ensuring smooth operations during shoots.
Looking to the future, Khatri is optimistic about further growth and diversification in his business. He plans to expand into new areas while continuously honing his craft. His advice to aspiring photographers is to “stay creative and versatile,” focusing on developing a unique style without comparing oneself to others.
As Khatri continues to innovate, his studio stands as a testament to what can be accomplished through passion and determination. In the lively city of Suva, Special Moments Photography & Cinematography Studio represents more than just a place to capture images; it is where dreams turn into remarkable realities for everyday individuals.