You've probably seen photos of your parents, aunts and uncles posing awkwardly in a photo studio against a loud (often floral) background. Perhaps, you've been photographed as a kid too, for special occasions, and we don't mean the passport/school photo. You can relive that nostalgia of getting photographed in a studio, except this time it's contemporary and the aesthetics are minimalist and pastel.
Mumbai photographer Shreya Sen has ditched the wedding-photography business to set up a studio and to bring back the art of studio photography. After 10 years of shooting weddings, Sen is bringing her prowess to a more intimate space, the Soulster Studio in Lower Parel.
Inspired by studio-style, old-school portraits, Sen believes her soft style and minimalist aesthetic can take portraits to a different level. And, she's set up her studio keeping soft aesthetics in mind. The studio is almost entirely in neutrals (think: browns, whites, greys) and speaks volumes of the kind of portraits you'll get here.
The idea for this space is to offer an intimate setting where one can get styled and shot, just for fun. "Photos in India are always centered around events. We barely take time out for portraits. I want clients to take the time to get styled and photographed, and make this an event of its own," she says. But Sen's intent for the space doesn't stop there. She also wants to use the space to bring creative people together, create workshops, networking talks, YouTube content and podcasts to inspire and provide resources for artists, photographers and people who want to tap into their creative voice.
How does it work? You call Sen for a phone consultation first. She will discuss what type/style of photos you're looking for, the colours that'll work best, and even a wardrobe consultation. You meet her at Soulster Studio, ready to be shot and spend 45 minutes getting your hair and make-up done. The shoot takes approximately two hours, and is a great activity to do by yourself, with your BFF, partner, or family. It's also ideal for those looking to get some photos clicked for personal branding.
Sen specializes in Fine Art Editorial Portraits and her style brings to life any portrait shot she captures. After all, she's been a features photographer for Vogue Magazine for over six years; and has been featured in several magazines, blogs, and even in a Netflix show. However, Sen is using the space for much more. Brands can get in touch with her for product photography, food photography, fine art still life, and interiors photography. Charges at Soulster Studio for portrait shoots start at INR 25,000 and can go up to INR 40,000. This includes a 2-hour shoot, up to 2 changes, and you can select 10 images.
Sen also offers a Portrait Box, which is a treasure box of sorts and contains prints of the images you've picked. Her idea is to make clients believe that photos are to be treasured, and to keep them safe.
