Ashok Kochhar –
As a photographer, I realise that if you want to know about the people of a country, go and photograph the streets.
I have been shooting at various destinations across the globe but somehow New Zealand is special. People here are very cooperative, friendly, and do not feel offended if photographed even from a close distance.
I am a photographer who loves taking close-ups with wide-angle lenses.
Thus far, I have not come across any resistance from anyone.
Community events
Another point of appreciation is that New Zealand has several community events that give an opportunity for everyone to come together and interact with one another.
These events give me an opportunity to meet some wonderful people and take pictures, street-photography style.
I have made many friends on the streets instantly.
Generally, after taking pictures I try to introduce myself and promise them to send the image, giving me another chance to set up a dialogue with them.
Till date, I have taken pictures in small towns and big cities like Auckland, and it has been a great experience.
Interesting settings
Another interesting fact that is worthy of mention is that there is something or the other happening at all time on the streets.
The place is so lively and inviting that one can spend months and years taking pictures on the same location.
One always gets a chance to photograph very interesting settings.
It may be a singer and guitarist or a couple posing like a B/W dressed statue or a small band. In a way, street photography in New Zealand is a lensman’s delight.
The pictures that I am sharing here are from my collection of my journey of ‘500 Days in New Zealand.’
I hope you would like them and and that these pictures tell you many untold stories.
Ashok Kochhar is a world-renowned photographer, designer and art director. He migrated to New Zealand with his family last year and contributes regularly to Indian Newslink. He is currently on a ‘500-days Assignment’ that will take him to the length and breadth of New Zealand. There are many other initiatives that he has planned with us, to be announced in stages.
