Meet Lavina Randhawa

We recently connected with Lavina Randhawa and have shared our conversation below.

Lavina, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
Creativity thrives when we nurture it. And to nurture it, I keep myself inspired, I challenge my comfort zone and I have a lot of fun with photography. There are few techniques I use to keep my creativity alive:

1. Travel and Explore: New environments spark curiosity and a fresh perspective. Even a local park that I haven’t visited before can offer unique compositions and lighting.
2. Looking beyond photography: I love watching movies and exploring music which broadens my perspective and introduces new concepts that translates to photography.
3. Learn new techniques: I love watching online tutorials and understanding the techniques that different artists use and incorporating the techniques in my workflow.
4. Personal projects: I often take break from client work and dedicate time to personal projects. I experiment with new ideas, styles, or subjects that excite me without any pressure.
5. Community: I follow photographers on social media and meet photographers locally who discuss ideas and push boundaries and ignite my creative spark. I analyze their techniques and see if they can inspire my projects.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
My journey has been shaped by dual passions: Professionally, I navigate the dynamic world of technology as a product manager, where I build digital products and leverage the cutting-edge capabilities of artificial intelligence. Personally, I immerse myself in the captivating realm of photography projects as a creative expression.
Raised in an Indian household where traditional achievements were prized, I initially followed the conventional path of education and stable employment. However, life’s twists and turns, particularly the loss of my mother in 2015, compelled me to seek solace beyond words. I found refuge behind the lens of a camera, where my creativity and expression flourished. Photography became more than a hobby; it became a lifeline, a means of healing and self-discovery.
Interestingly, I began to notice parallels between my roles as a product manager and a photographer. Both require creativity, problem-solving, and a keen eye for detail. Just as I craft innovative solutions to meet user needs in the tech world, I compose visually compelling images that convey emotions and narratives in photography. Through sharing my photographic journey, I’ve not only found a community but also discovered the power of art to connect and inspire. In embracing both my analytical and creative sides, I’ve found balance and fulfillment in my professional and personal pursuits.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey as a photographer, I’ve found three qualities to be especially impactful: adaptability, communication, and continuous learning.

1. Adaptability: Photography often presents unexpected challenges, from changing weather conditions to shifting lighting scenarios. Being adaptable allows you to adjust quickly and creatively to overcome obstacles and capture memorable shots. My advice for beginners is to embrace uncertainty and remain flexible. Practice shooting in diverse environments and conditions to develop your adaptability and problem-solving skills.

2. Communication: Effective communication is essential for connecting with subjects, clients, and fellow photographers. Whether you’re directing a photo shoot or discussing project requirements with a client, clear communication ensures that everyone is on the same page and enables collaborative success. To improve communication skills, practice articulating your ideas clearly and actively listen to feedback. Engage with others in the photography community to share experiences and learn from each other.

3. Continuous Learning: Photography is a constantly evolving art form, with new techniques, technologies, and trends emerging regularly. To stay relevant and grow as a photographer, embrace a mindset of continuous learning. Seek out workshops, online tutorials, and mentorship opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills. Experiment with different styles and genres of photography to discover your strengths and interests. Remember that learning is a lifelong journey, so stay curious and open to new experiences.

For those early in their photography journey, my advice is to focus on developing these three skills. Cultivate adaptability by embracing challenges and finding creative solutions. Enhance communication skills by practicing effective verbal and visual communication. And prioritize continuous learning by seeking out opportunities for growth and exploration. By honing these qualities, you’ll not only become a better photographer but also enjoy a fulfilling and rewarding journey in photography.

Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my late parents did for me was fostering a balanced outlook on life—a philosophy that emphasized the importance of staying grounded while also encouraging exploration and growth. From a young age, they instilled in me the value of stability, responsibility, and humility. They taught me to appreciate the roots from which I came, emphasizing the significance of family, community, and tradition. However, alongside these principles of grounding, they also championed the spirit of curiosity, adventure, and self-discovery. They encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone, to embrace new challenges, and to pursue my passions with fervor. They believed in the power of exploration as a means of personal and intellectual growth, and they never discouraged me from trying new things or following my dreams.
This approach to life—grounded yet exploratory—has been instrumental in shaping my worldview and guiding my decisions. It has allowed me to navigate life’s complexities with a sense of confidence and resilience, knowing that I can draw strength from my roots while also spreading my wings to explore new horizons. I am deeply grateful to my parents for imparting this invaluable lesson, as it has played a pivotal role in shaping the person I am today and the path I have chosen to follow.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
All images are shot by me – Lavina Randhawa

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