‘Bahuroopi’ by Sanjoy Sengupta
Travel can be transformative – it takes us beyond familiar comfort zones and broadens our horizons by introducing us to new ideas, people and cultures. Just ask travel photographer and RPS member Sanjoy Sengupta.
Here, the Kolkata-born, Oman-based chemical engineer discusses the origins of his wanderlust, why he enjoys being a member of the RPS Travel Group and what his adventures around the world have taught him.
‘Camels at the dawn’ by Sanjoy Sengupta
Where does your interest in photography come from?
Travelling is a passion that’s always run through my family. And photography allows me to capture the sweet memories of the people, culture, traditions, food, landscapes and architecture of the beautiful places I visit.
I first started travelling [in] Europe and south-east Asia with my wife and kids in 2005. Today, we try to do at least one family trip together, while my wife and I like to squeeze in another trip or two to destinations of our choice. I’ve travelled to 38 countries so far and hope to visit at least 50 by the time I retire.
‘Flying over Kilimanjaro’ by Sanjoy Sengupta
Whose work inspires you?
Although I grew up looking at the pictures of Steve McCurry HonFRPS – one of the greatest travel photographers of all time – my work isn’t influenced by any single photographer. When I decide to visit somewhere I scan through various websites to learn more about it, which introduces me to photographers I might not have otherwise discovered.
I’ve been a member of the RPS since 2016. My membership helps tremendously in connecting me to photographers worldwide. When I’m travelling to their locations I always make a point to meet these photographers in person to swap ideas and form friendships.
‘My camel herd’ by Sanjoy Sengupta
What do you enjoy about being a member of the RPS Travel Group?
This group has introduced me to so many countries, cultures and people over the years and always instils me with a desire to travel to the locations in focus. It also helps me appreciate different perspectives on highly photographed destinations or those I’ve already visited.
I’ve been a regular contributor to the group’s ‘Image of the month’ competition since becoming a member. I always find the judges’ comments on the selected pictures exhaustive and useful – especially as I’ve never had formal photography training. Their analysis teaches me how people perceive others’ images and helps me understand the key components a winning picture requires.
‘When Spider-Man meets old men’ by Sanjoy Sengupta
Talk us through some favourite photographs from your travels.
It’s said every picture should tell a story. And whether taken on my trips to Myanmar, Greece, Istanbul or Auschwitz, every one of my travel photographs have interesting stories to tell.
I took ‘When Spider-Man meets old men’ (see above) during the Muscat festival – an annual celebration showcasing Omani culture and heritage. While crowds were focusing on three old men in traditional Omani attire sitting gossiping, I noticed a small kid dressed in a Spider-Man costume behind them. When one of the old men noticed the boy, I managed to capture his look of disbelief. The bright colours of the boy’s costume and the old man’s expression make this such an engaging and funny photo. I felt happy to capture the cultural differences of two generations in a single frame.
‘Three riders of Adam’ by Sanjoy Sengupta
Camel and horse riding are popular sports in Oman and events are arranged in every province (wilayat) between September to March where locals can showcase their skills. Given that these busy events take place in early mornings and late afternoons, it can be challenging to capture images with good light and uncluttered backgrounds. But thanks to the late afternoon light, the texture of the mountainous background and the drama of the three riders standing shoulder to shoulder on horseback, this photograph (see above) is the top I’ve taken at such events. Plus, catching one of the riders in the air adds a bit of a magic twist to the composition.
‘Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque reflection’ by Sanjoy Sengupta
How do you ensure your travel photography captures a fresh perspective in the era of the smartphone?
I often use smartphone cameras when photographing popular tourist spots, but I limit their use for social media posts only.
When travelling I always look for perspectives that’ve never been seen. This means investigating less touristic spots, visiting old towns or stopping at locations at odd hours. Searching for these unique setups and compositions that authentically reflect the daily lives of locals in their environment takes time and patience, but at end of the day it’s worth the effort.
‘Traditional dance of Oman’ by Sanjoy Sengupta
How has your travel photography educated you on different cultures?
Travel is the best medicine in today’s world. It widens your perspective, helps you to appreciate other culture and traditions, teaches you humanity, introduces you to people you fall in love with, and helps you understand we’re all connected through our experiences.
When you see a beautiful picture of a lion cub playing in the African savannah or a shot of schoolkids at Myanmar’s Inle Lake, you feel a responsibility to protect and preserve the planet’s beauty for future generations to enjoy. This is one of travel photography’s most stirring abilities.
It’s also a travel photographer’s responsibility to help highlight a place’s culture and unique traditions. Doing so helps educate audiences about the history and challenges facing so many locations around the globe today.
Because of these capabilities, travel photography is a powerful medium we must use sensibly for the benefit of the planet.