India reimagined
Finding Balance: Photography, Family, and a Wedding in India
Over the years, I’ve come to understand that my photography tends to fall into one of two approaches, which I suspect equally applies to others:
The Thoughtful Approach
These are the times I leave the house with a plan. Perhaps it’s the light, the weather, or a particular event that draws me out. In these moments, I head out alone, fully equipped and mentally focused on creating intentional images.
Reacting to Opportunities
This is the more spontaneous side of my photography, grabbing my phone to capture something that catches my eye. No gear, no plan, but ready to react when a moment presents itself.
Facing up to a dilemma
But sometimes, opportunities land somewhere between these two approaches. A recent trip to India for my son’s wedding was one such case. Naturally, I was excited by the photographic potential of such a vibrant and visually rich destination. But as the reality of family obligations and wedding festivities set in, it quickly became clear that personal photography time would be limited- as it should be during such a special family occasion.
With multiple outfit changes, tight schedules, and the need to travel light, I made the decision to leave my heavy gear behind. My focus had to be the wedding and my role as a parent and guest. For me, setting boundaries and prioritizing family over photography felt essential - both deserve their own space and attention.
That said, the photographer’s eye never really shuts off. Even when I’m not actively shooting, I’m still noticing light, composition, and framing the world in my mind.
The trip
Despite the constraints, each day in India offered countless moments of visual interest. We arrived during a time of particularly poor air quality. Heavy pollution meant wearing masks outdoors, and a thick haze hung over the cities. Still, India’s vibrancy shone through - the rich colors, the constant motion, and the everyday rhythms that make the country so fascinating.
Armed only with my iPhone, I captured hundreds of images - not just of the wedding itself, but of the small, everyday scenes that gave life to the trip. When I returned home and began reviewing the photos, I felt compelled to take them a step further.
Because the haze dulled much of the natural contrast and color, I chose to reimagine the images- removing some of the pollution effects in post-processing and adjusting light and tones to reflect what I felt the scenes might have looked like under clearer skies. My goal wasn’t strict documentary accuracy, but rather an artistic interpretation, producing results that convey the spirit and emotion I experienced throughout the trip.
Results
Not to bore the viewer I have selected only a few favorite images that help reflect my time in India. Each photo was taken with care and purpose, even though many may be considered snapshots. Ultimately, they do what I believe all great travel photos should: preserve the fondest memories of a meaningful place and time.
This trip reminded me that photography doesn’t always need to be about capturing the perfect shot. Sometimes, it’s about holding on to memories and letting the story of the place, and its people, shine through.
So scroll down and join me on this journey: from the hustle and bustle of everyday street life and colorful markets, to historic sights scattered across the country. And finally, one small indulgence - a candid shot of the happy couple themselves.
