In a quiet area of Suva, Fiji, a photography transformation is taking place. Hemal Khatri, who began with a simple camera and a dream, now runs a successful photography studio known as Special Moments Photography & Cinematography Studio. His journey progressed from sharing a workspace with his father to establishing a modern studio that meets a variety of photographic needs.
Khatri’s foray into photography was unconventional. Originally studying for a Diploma in IT Networking, he encountered the common challenge of securing a job in a highly competitive market. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic marked a significant shift for him. Facing limited job opportunities, he reignited his passion for photography and decided to turn his hobby into a career.
“I had a camera before, a friend’s camera actually,” Khatri reminisced. “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, he began freelancing, concentrating on corporate photography and modeling portfolios. He initially operated his studio from his father’s tailoring shop, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey.
Khatri’s aspirations quickly expanded. By 2022, he moved into a dedicated studio space. “This wall took almost three weeks to build,” he explained, pointing to a setup that creates an optical illusion of infinity. He invested time in online tutorials and sought professional advice to make his vision a reality. His studio reflects his innovation and commitment, offering ample space for large groups and a creative variety of backgrounds and props.
One of Khatri’s key philosophies is to highlight hidden talents. “I believe everyone has a hidden talent,” he stated. Unlike many studios that focus on traditional models, he actively recruits individuals who typically do not meet conventional modeling standards. This approach allows fresh faces to present collections for clients in the garment industry, broadening the landscape of fashion photography in Fiji.
Khatri’s path has not been without difficulties. In the early days, the limited space in his father’s shop hindered his capability to manage larger groups and diverse shoots. “I couldn’t offer what I wanted to because of the space,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of transitioning to a larger studio which required strategic planning and investment. He also faced challenges with pricing; he initially charged $90 per hour, but as he expanded his services, he adjusted his rates while striving to keep photography affordable.
Khatri’s aspirations extend beyond traditional photography as he explores 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 highlighted. His studio has evolved into a multifunctional environment that integrates various media to better serve clients.
Focusing on customer satisfaction, Khatri customizes each session to align with the client’s vision, providing a variety of settings to achieve the perfect shot. “I prefer working alone; it helps me maintain control and ensure that everything goes smoothly,” he shared.
Looking ahead, Khatri is enthusiastic about potential growth and diversification. He plans to explore new areas while continuously enhancing his expertise. “The key is to stay creative and versatile,” he advises upcoming photographers. “Don’t compare yourself to others. Focus on developing your unique style and exploring different genres.”
As Khatri continues to innovate and grow, his studio stands as a testament to what can be accomplished through passion and hard work. In the thriving city of Suva, Special Moments Photography & Cinematography Studio represents more than just a venue for capturing memories; it is a space where aspirations come to life, transforming ordinary individuals into extraordinary subjects.