We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Nilangana Banerjee a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Nilangana, appreciate you joining us today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?
Embarking on my creative journey, I’ve been fortunate to forge a full-time career as a professional photographer and artist. However, the path to success was not without its challenges. Allow me to guide you through my narrative of perseverance and passion:
Navigating Early Challenges:
Transitioning from Mumbai to Los Angeles was a pivotal yet daunting decision. It meant leaving behind familiar faces, connections, and support systems. To bolster my aspirations, I pursued a second Master’s degree in Fine Arts, specializing in Photography. This academic pursuit not only honed my skills but also provided me with a platform to showcase my talent in a new and vibrant setting.
The Triumph of Obtaining an O1B Visa:
Securing the O1B visa marked a significant turning point in my journey. This achievement recognized my exceptional talent and unwavering dedication, granting me the opportunity to legally pursue my career in the United States. While the legal intricacies posed challenges, my determination and meticulous approach prevailed, paving the way for me to establish myself in the industry.
Evolving and Establishing My Presence:
Crafting a compelling portfolio was paramount. I dedicated countless hours to curate a collection that not only showcased my unique style and creativity but also served as a testament to my artistic vision. Despite initial networking challenges, I immersed myself in the vibrant photography and art community of Los Angeles, attending various events, workshops, and exhibitions to cultivate meaningful relationships.
Constantly evolving and learning was essential to stay relevant in a competitive landscape. I remained abreast of the latest trends and techniques in photography, a pursuit that distinguished my work and set me apart from my peers.
Pinnacle Career Moments:
Securing key positions such as Lead In-house Photographer, Art Director, and Head of Creative Production at a prestigious Los Angeles-based company was a defining milestone. These roles not only provided stability but also afforded me the platform to further refine my craft and leadership skills. Collaborations with renowned fashion and editorial magazines, as well as industry giants like Amazon, Walmart, Target, Nordstrom, Forever 21, and numerous global brands, significantly expanded my reach and visibility within the industry. These collaborations opened doors to new and exciting projects and ventures, further fueling my passion and drive.
Reflecting on the Journey:
Looking back, my journey was a testament to perseverance, discipline, and an unwavering passion for my craft. Each obstacle I encountered served as a stepping stone towards my goals.
In retrospect, while I could have potentially expedited certain aspects of my journey through leveraging social media platforms, attending industry-specific conferences, or seeking mentorship from established professionals, my dedication and hard work remained the cornerstone of my success. This journey has reaffirmed my belief that with determination and resilience, anything is possible in the pursuit of one’s dreams.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I am Nilangana Banerjee, known as Olive in the entertainment world, and I am deeply proud to be recognized as a Commercial Photographer, Creative Director, and Artist based in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, California. My journey into the enchanting realm of photography began amidst the lively streets of Mumbai, India, where I developed a profound appreciation for the intricate fusion of science and artistry inherent in capturing moments through a lens.
Despite societal pressures nudging me towards conventional paths, I remained steadfast in my pursuit of a Bachelor’s degree in Still Photography and Audio-Visual Production in Mumbai. This academic endeavor allowed me to explore a myriad of genres, including Industrial, Architectural, Interior, Portraiture, and Conceptual Fashion/Editorial Photography.
Seeking to refine my craft further, I embarked on a Master’s journey at the Light and Life Academy under the esteemed mentorship of photographer Mohammad Iqbal. This transformative experience broadened my horizons, leading me to secure a coveted spot in the New York Film Academy’s Masters of Fine Arts in Photography program. Graduating summa cum laude from this esteemed institution, I was recognized as a notable alumna and ambassador.
Under the guidance of legendary photographers such as Ralph Gibson, Aaron Rapoport, Nancy Burson, and David Mager, I honed my skills, solidifying my status as a rising star in the photography world. My work has graced the covers and pages of prestigious global publications, garnering accolades, international acclaim, and respect within the photography community.
Beyond professional achievements, my journey is a testament to my unwavering passion for the boundless realms of photography and art. I am a multifaceted artist, finding inspiration in music, painting, and cultural exploration, all of which enrich my creative perspective.
Reflecting on my journey, I realize that photography wasn’t my initial goal. Growing up, societal expectations led me to suppress my love for art. However, it eventually found its way back to me, becoming my primary channel of expression, constituting 95% of my artistic endeavors. Photography provided the sanctuary and stability I had always sought, empowering me to break free from conventional expectations and pursue my passion wholeheartedly.
My artistic vision is deeply rooted in nature’s beauty and the works of influential photographers and artists such as Richard Avedon, Tim Walker, Diane Arbus, Erwin Olaf, Caravaggio, Van Gogh, and Frida Kahlo. I believe in creating art that transcends mere aesthetics, aiming to deliver profound messages to my audience. Many of my projects, such as “The Selves,” delve into the subtle internal struggles individuals face when grappling with societal ideals, aiming to spark meaningful dialogue and societal transformation.
What sets my work apart is my distinctive artistic perspective on global issues. I firmly believe that addressing and raising awareness about significant global challenges transcends the confines of scientific fields alone. Consequently, my unique style and business ethos center on creating purpose-driven art—a dedication to leveraging my platform to advocate for meaningful change and contribute positively to our world.
Currently, in my multifaceted roles at HANHOO USA (Comprehensive Sourcing Solutions) in LA, encompassing In-house Lead Photographer, DOP (Director of Photography), and Head of Creative Productions, I also nurture my personal brand, Nilangana Banerjee Photography. This brand operates through two distinct units specializing in commercial photography and conceptual fine art projects. The commercial unit spans editorial fashion, interiors and architecture, portraiture, food and beverage, product, and lifestyle photography, while the fine art unit delves into conceptual projects that tackle pressing global issues.
I take great pride in the dual nature of my brand, which straddles both commercial and fine art photography spheres. This approach has earned recognition through features in prestigious magazines, journals, books, and newspapers worldwide. Additionally, my work has been showcased in numerous gallery exhibitions and highlighted across a variety of media platforms, both in print and online.
Furthermore, in the near future, I intend to rebrand and reintroduce my brand as a production company, integrating the production of artistic motion pictures alongside still imagery. This evolution will further enhance my ability to convey profound messages and foster societal transformation through my artistry.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the profound journey of self-expression and discovery it offers. Through my art, I delve into the depths of my imagination, emotions, ideas, and experiences, capturing them in a way that feels truly authentic. Bringing my inner world to life on canvas, paper, a digital sensor, or through music is an incredibly fulfilling experience.
Equally enriching is the connection I forge with others through my art. When someone resonates with my work, shares in the emotions I’ve poured into it, or finds inspiration from it, it creates a profound bond that transcends words. Knowing that my art has touched someone’s life, even for a brief moment, fills me with a deep sense of purpose and joy.
The continuous growth and evolution that come with being an artist are perhaps the most exhilarating aspects. Each piece I create presents a new opportunity to learn, experiment, and push the boundaries of what I once thought possible. It’s a journey of endless discovery, and there is nothing quite like the thrill of unlocking a new level of creativity or achieving a breakthrough in my work. This is what keeps me returning to the camera, the canvas, the paper and the studio, time and time again.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
Absolutely, my creative journey is a profound quest to explore and express the depths of human emotions, ideas, and experiences. Through my art, I endeavor to create pieces that resonate deeply, sparking introspection and forging connections. My aim is to transcend the boundaries of traditional art forms, embracing new techniques and mediums to capture the essence of our shared humanity.
I believe that the role of the artist in society is evolving, and I passionately advocate for art that goes beyond mere aesthetics. Art should serve as a conduit for conveying profound messages, contributing actively to societal awareness and fostering transformation. I dedicate a significant portion of my time to researching and brainstorming inventive ways to artistically illuminate less-discussed yet potent issues, often overshadowed by their subtle nature. This commitment is vital, as the subjects explored in my projects demand heightened awareness and attention.
My advocacy extends to creating art that delivers meaningful messages, pushing boundaries to shed light on underrepresented yet impactful issues. I am driven to create work that not only captivates but also serves as a catalyst for dialogue on these foundational issues. These conversations are crucial for societal transformation, aiming to dismantle unhealthy norms and foster positive change.
My ultimate goal is to inspire and evoke a sense of wonder and introspection in my audience, fostering empathy and understanding. By bridging cultural divides and contributing to meaningful dialogues, I aspire to leave a lasting impact on the world. I aim to encourage others to recognize the beauty and complexity within themselves and the world around them. Central to my mission is the creation of art that addresses global issues, as I firmly believe in art’s power to ignite change and cultivate a more informed and compassionate society.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nilanganabanerjee.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nilangana.official/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063589400588
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nilanganabanerjee/
- Twitter: https://x.com/NILANGANA_10
- Other: https://www.brush.bio/olive
