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RK : First of all, thank you for accepting our invitation for an interview. Please say something about you.What first attracted you to photography? Do you have an educational artistic background?
Hendra : First time attracted to photography was back then in 2005. I was travelling with my friends, one of them bring a pocket camera that can be operated in manual. It was the first time I know shooting at night not always has to be all black in the background. No, my background is Computer accounting and marketing.
RK : How would you describe your style (style of photography/art and shooting style)? Do you have any preferences regarding cameras and format?
Hendra : My style is unique. I love to shoot something out of the box or never been done before. I don't really limit myself into any certain style. My photos can be funny, can be serious, can be romantic, glamour, or intimate. one thing for sure, I will try to capture all styles in creative way.
I use Nikon full frame.
RK : What got you into shooting weddings?
Hendra : Why weddings, I shoot everything at first time, I guess everybody does it just like me. after having my first DSLR camera it was Nikon D90, I shot everything. but only wedding that attracts me. I don't wanna live my life just work and get paycheck and die. When I die, I wanna leave memories for others.
RK : What kind of tools do you use for post processing?
Hendra : I use Lightroom and Photoshop.
RK : How did you set about developing your own style?
Hendra : It's all about process, just shoot, shoot and shoot, don't worry to be inspired (not copying) by others, its normal to follow someone style when u are just started. but eventually you will know what u like and what u don't.
RK : You travel quite a lot shooting weddings and engagement sessions. What would you say was your favorite place/destination or experience? and why?
Hendra : Switzerland. for the its the best locations to shoot so far. Everything is beautiful there.
RK : What do you think is the future of photography? With the rise of camera phones, mirror-less cameras and other new technologies, where do you think all of this is heading? Will DSLR still have a place in 5 or 10 years?
Hendra : I'm not really a technology person. but I guess now is the start of mirror less era. will DSLR still have a place in the future? maybe, maybe not, I'm not sure. but I guess when u hold DSLR, the grip is still better than mirror less.
RK : You’ve taken thousands of photos over the years, but do you have a favorite?
Hendra : Yes, of course. I almost never shot the same frame I've taken before even though I know Its good.
RK : What’s the best moment you’ve had as a wedding photographer?
Hendra : When I can deliver happiness to my clients through my photos.
RK : What’s the biggest challenge shooting at a wedding?
Hendra : From where I shoot, its the time. the wedding I shoot usually takes 16-18 hours/wedding.
RK : Taking nice photos of pretty people is a no-brainer. But how do you shoot flattering wedding photos for people who may not be conventionally attractive?
Hendra : Emotional connection is everything. I prefer shooting small wedding 30-50 peoples full with love than fancy wedding with 1000+ peoples who might be don't really know each other.
RK : What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started taking photos?
Hendra : I wish I knew my passion in photography earlier. I have my first DSLR in 2009 and started my professional job as photographer in 2010, I was 30 y/o back then.
RK : What’s next for you? What kind of projects would you like to explore in the future?
Hendra : I still want to explore the world and shoot other styles of weddings.
RK : Other than photography, what are your other passions or hobbies?
Hendra : I have been petting shrimps. Caridina Shrimps
RK : Do you have any tips for photographers to help them grow artistically?
Hendra : Never limit yourself, shoot everything. It's a big loss when a photographer starts to limit their self. I can't imagine how many creativity will be lost when a photographer limit their self.
RK : Have you ever been to India and anything you know about Indian Art & Culture?
Hendra : No not yet, but I've been dreaming to shoot there.
RK : We (retrokolkata.com) are trying to make a bridge between National and International Art & Culture By featuring some National & International personalities who already have made their own path in their respective fields and we think your story and tips might help the newcomers to build their career. Please say something about our initiative and any special message for your Indian followers.
Hendra : I guess It's brilliant, back to where I started, there was not so many information I could get, it's a bit lack. with this kind of media of course it will helps a lot for others who wants to start or learn or get inspired.
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