We were lucky to catch up with Khush Patel recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Khush, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Being the only one in the room who looks like me has been a journey of growth and self-discovery. I’ve come to see it as an opportunity to amplify my unique perspective and experiences. Early on, I realized that instead of seeing this as a barrier, I could use it as a way to stand out and contribute something different and valuable. The values I learned from my family—like perseverance, integrity, and the belief that hard work pays off—have been my foundation. In those moments of feeling isolated, I remind myself that diversity of thought is crucial for innovation. My presence in the room isn’t just important for me; it’s vital for creating a richer, more inclusive dialogue. By embracing my uniqueness and understanding that it’s my strength, I’ve been able to turn challenges into opportunities, not just for myself, but for others who might feel the same way.
Ultimately, I’ve learned that success doesn’t come from blending in; it comes from being authentic, confident, and using my voice to make a difference. Being the only one in the room has taught me to be resilient, to lead with empathy, and to always strive for excellence—knowing that my presence matters and that I have something valuable to offer.”
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m Khush, and my journey has always been driven by a deep commitment to authenticity and making a meaningful impact. My work is a reflection of the values I hold dear—integrity, perseverance, and the belief that hard work can lead to transformative results. Whether it’s through my professional endeavors or personal projects, I strive to bring a unique perspective to everything I do.
What excites me most about my work is the ability to create something that truly resonates with others. I’ve learned that when you stay true to yourself and your values, you can create a brand, a product, or an experience that stands out. For me, this isn’t just about success; it’s about making a difference and offering something that adds value to people’s lives.
Right now, I’m particularly focused on expanding my reach and exploring new opportunities that align with my vision. I’m working on unique ideas affiliated with fashion and beauty which represents the next chapter of my journey. This is an exciting time because it allows me to push boundaries and explore new possibilities, all while staying true to the core values that have guided me from the beginning.
At the end of the day, what drives me is the desire to connect with people and create something that lasts. I’m proud of where I’ve come from and excited about where I’m headed, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with others.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey as a photographer, three key qualities and skills stand out: curiosity, emotional intelligence, and adaptability.
1. Curiosity: My photography journey has been driven by a deep sense of curiosity about the world around me. This quality has pushed me to explore new perspectives, experiment with different techniques, and constantly seek out new subjects and stories to capture. Curiosity keeps your creative process fresh and evolving. For those starting out, I’d encourage you to never stop asking questions, trying new things, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Your curiosity will lead you to discover hidden gems in your work and in the world.
2. Emotional Intelligence: Photography is more than just capturing an image; it’s about capturing a feeling, a moment that resonates deeply with the viewer. Emotional intelligence has allowed me to connect with my subjects on a deeper level, understanding their emotions and translating that into powerful imagery. This skill is crucial not just for photography but for any creative endeavor. To develop it, focus on being present with your subjects, truly listening and observing their emotions, and then using that understanding to guide your work. The more you tune into the emotions around you, the more authentic and compelling your photography will become.
3. Adaptability: Photography often involves working in unpredictable conditions, whether it’s changing light, unexpected weather, or the challenge of capturing a spontaneous moment. Adaptability has been crucial in allowing me to navigate these situations effectively, ensuring that I can still create meaningful work despite the challenges. It’s about being flexible, thinking on your feet, and being open to change. For those early in their journey, I’d suggest embracing adaptability as a strength. The ability to adjust and innovate in the moment will not only enhance your work but also build resilience, helping you grow as an artist.
These qualities—curiosity, emotional intelligence, and adaptability—have been transformative in my photography journey. They’ve allowed me to create work that not only captures moments but also connects with people on a deeper level. My advice to those starting out is to cultivate these qualities and let them guide your creative process. They will not only enhance your work but also make your journey as a photographer more meaningful and fulfilling.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
A book that has played an essential role in my development as a photographer is Ansel Adams’ “The Camera.” His approach to landscape photography, especially his meticulous attention to detail and deep connection to nature, has profoundly influenced my work. Adams didn’t just take photos; he visualized the final image long before pressing the shutter. This concept of pre-visualization taught me the importance of intention and foresight in photography, transforming how I approach each shot. From Adams, I learned that photography is about more than just capturing a scene—it’s about interpreting the world through your own unique vision. This idea has been a cornerstone of my creative process, pushing me to look beyond the surface and find deeper meaning in every subject. His dedication to both technical mastery and artistic expression reminds me that true impact comes from balancing both these elements. This balance is something I strive for in my own work, ensuring that each photograph is both technically sound and emotionally resonant.
Beyond Adams, I’ve been inspired by books on the history and aesthetics of photography. These texts have expanded my understanding of the medium, highlighting how photography has evolved and how it has been used as a powerful tool for storytelling. Learning about the pioneers of photography and the various movements that shaped the art form has given me a broader perspective on my own work. It’s shown me that photography is not just about capturing moments but about telling stories, expressing emotions, and communicating ideas. These readings have enriched my appreciation for photography as both an art and a craft, guiding me to explore new techniques and perspectives. They’ve also reinforced the idea that photography is a continually evolving field, one where learning and growth are constant. Whether it’s through studying the techniques of masters like Adams or exploring the broader history of the medium, these books have been invaluable in shaping my journey as a photographer, reminding me that there is always more to discover and learn.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://khushnyfa.wixsite.com/my-site-1
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/versed.vision/
Image Credits
Khush Patel
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