TAKE TEN: Yusheen Sriram
Joburg-based Yusheen Sriram is capturing beautiful moments during weddings and portrait sessions. He tells us more about the importance of networking, the beauty of traditional Indian weddings, and the one skill that changed the game. (Image credit: Shafee Vadia)
Yusheen Sriram
What made you decide to become a professional photographer?
Passion. It’s the driving force behind everything I do. I’ve always been drawn to pursue the things I truly love, and photography has been that consistent thread throughout my life.
My earliest memories include being fascinated by my father’s camera during family gatherings. While I occasionally experimented with it as a child, the defining moment came when my uncle allowed me to use his DSLR. The instant I framed my first shot through that viewfinder and captured the image, something clicked within me. It was transformative.
Since that pivotal moment, my growth in photography has been exponential. What began as curiosity evolved into fascination and ultimately blossomed into a deep, abiding love for the craft. Photography isn’t just what I do – it’s an essential part of who I am.
As a small business owner, what do you wish you knew earlier, or started doing earlier, in business?
Network = Networth. I cannot emphasise enough the value of attending industry conferences, photography events, and actively connecting with people. Showcasing your work in these environments and building meaningful relationships with like-minded professionals creates opportunities that simply don’t exist in isolation. What seems like a casual conversation can often translate into significant business opportunities.
What do you like most about capturing traditional Indian weddings?
Traditional Indian weddings are remarkable for their rich cultural complexity. While these celebrations offer countless photographic opportunities through various rituals, what truly captivates me is capturing those profound emotional moments – especially the opening dance and the first look between the couple.
There’s something powerful about documenting that initial exchange when emotions are at their peak and authenticity shines through. These genuine reactions create images that deeply resonate with both the couple and viewers. The intensity of these moments truly ignites my passion as a photographer.
With which Fujifilm body are you working, and which is your favourite lens?
I currently work with the Fujifilm X-T4, and my favourite lens is unquestionably the Fujinon XF56mmF1.2. This lens creates beautifully dreamy images while maintaining a focal length that feels natural to the human eye. Its exceptional low-light capabilities are invaluable for evening events, and the distinctive bokeh it produces adds that special quality that elevates my photography.
What photographic skill have you acquired that turned out to be a game changer?
One of the most game-changing skills I’ve acquired in photography is mastering off-camera flash and lighting techniques. When I started using Godox AD200Pro and Godox V1 with modifiers, it completely transformed the way I shoot. Lighting control has allowed me to create consistent, high-quality images in any environment, whether it’s a wedding, a corporate shoot, or creative content.
Do you have a dream destination wedding you would like to shoot?
Bali is at the top of my destination wishlist. I envision capturing a breathtaking beachside ceremony with the elements perfectly aligned: a sophisticated stretch tent framing the shoreline, an elegantly designed deck area hosting the reception with the ocean as backdrop. The interplay of natural light across the water combined with the rich cultural elements Bali offers, would create a truly magical photographic narrative.
What’s a small thing you added to your camera bag that now plays such an important part that it never leaves it anymore?
Romoss power banks have become absolutely essential to my professional toolkit. What began as a practical addition has evolved into a non-negotiable component of my professional preparedness. I carry two or three fully charged ones at all times, providing peace of mind that I can power any piece of equipment when needed.
Find more of Yusheen’s work here:
