A participant receives a certificate from Dabboo Ratnani. Picture by Ashwinee Pati

Bhubaneswar, Oct. 20: It was a dream come true opportunity for photography enthusiasts as they got hands-on experience of capturing models in fascinating frames from well-known fashion photographer Dabboo Ratnani. Ratnani conducted an extensive workshop in the city.

The 42-year-old photographer threw light on various aspects of fashion photography and gave tips on developing necessary skills. “The goal should always be to outdo one’s previous work,” said Ratnani.

Ratnani advised the amateurs not to rely on photo editing software.

He said: “The disadvantage of such software is that it makes the photographer lazy and overshadows creativity. One needs to keep experimenting with lighting, angles, background and location to get the perfect shot.”

Since its first publication in 1999, Ratnani’s annual calendar featuring famous Bollywood stars has become a prominent event in the world of fashion. Ratnani said that photography was his hobby that turned into profession. “Once I found a camera in my father’s drawer, and I started taking photographs randomly. Then, I did a lot of photography assignments in my college. My interest grew and gradually I realised that this is what I wanted to do in life.”

However, recollecting his early days in the industry, Ratnani said: “When I began in the 1990s photographers were not given much respect nor was it considered as a profession. I visited a number of senior photographers for tips and also did a number of photo shoots for free. Work began to pour in after I did the promotional photography for G.P. Sippy’s film Aatish and there was no looking back.”

Organised by a city-based group Daya Entertainment at the City hotel, the workshop was attended by around 200 photography aficionados.

The participants also received certificates from the renowned photographer.

“There wouldn’t be a single star in Bollywood who hasn’t worked with him. For budding photographers like us, his tips are valuable and would be cherished always,” said Sunnil Kalinndi, one of the participants.

Prior to the workshop, a model hunt was organised and the top two winners, Kumudini and Harshita, got the opportunity to be clicked by Ratnani.

Around 50 models from across the state took part in the competition.