Unhealthy practices of some people in the photography business are creating a poor image of the profession and will eventually destroy the industry, says the owner of a leading company in the industry.
VK Photovision Limited Director Khurshed Patel said “some people doing photography and video shooting using amateur equipment not suitable for professional work” have spoilt the market.
“Such practices have led to market crash. Many people do not understand the difference between high and low quality, it is just cost that matters. Establishing a professional photography and videography company and studio necessitates huge investment in equipment, the return on which is always slow,” he said.
Mr Patel said photographs and videos taken at important functions such as weddings, birthday parties and similar occasions serve as a record and memory for future reference.
“If you do not employ a professional photographer paying the price that is worthy of good work, then it is better not to spend anything at all. Our motto is, “Today’s Special Moments are Tomorrow’s Memories.’ We will never compromise on quality or price,” he said.
A graduate (BA) in Commerce with diplomas in Photography, Videography and computers obtained in his native Mumbai, Mr Patel arrived in New Zealand in April 1999 with experience spanning six years.
He established VK Photovision Limited to provide professional coverage of social, corporate and community functions. Fluency in English, Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi and Fiji Hindi, helps him to communicate well and understand the requirements of his clients better.
“Our rates are not exorbitant and we try to keep them at affordable levels for most people, but we should not be expected to be paid peanuts. People spend thousands of dollars on weddings and other occasions but try to economise on an important issue like photography,” Mr Patel said.
Over the years, he has won a number of citations and awards and has been involved in a number of prestigious projects, including shooting and editing of ‘Learning 4 Life,’ a Triangle TV serial.
