We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Pranav Mehta a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Pranav, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you tell us a bit about who your hero is and the influence they’ve had on you?

My Biggest Hero was my Grandfather. He was indeed a remarkable person who left a lasting impact on my life. He consistently displayed qualities that I admired and tried to emulate. One of the most valuable lessons I learned from him was the power of choice.

He taught me that we always have the comfort of choice in how we respond to situations and interact with others. This idea resonated with me deeply, as it highlighted the notion that our actions and attitudes are within our control. We are not victims of circumstances, but rather active participants in shaping our own lives.

Moreover, my grandfather emphasized the importance of choosing kindness in all aspects of life. He believed in treating others with compassion, empathy, and respect. By consistently showing kindness to those around him, he created a positive ripple effect that touched the lives of many. Witnessing his acts of kindness not only inspired me but also taught me the incredible impact a small act of kindness can have on someone’s day or even their entire life.

Another quality that my grandfather instilled in me was the importance of hard work. He demonstrated this through his own actions, as he was always dedicated and committed to his work. Whether it was his profession or various hobbies, he exhibited a strong work ethic that was truly admirable. I learned that hard work not only leads to personal growth and success but also shapes one’s character in a positive way.

Lastly, my grandfather showed me the significance of choosing happiness. Despite facing hardships and challenges throughout his life, he always maintained a positive outlook and had an infectious smile that could light up any room. He taught me that happiness is not dependent on external circumstances but rather a choice we make each day. It is about finding joy in the simple things, appreciating what we have, and cultivating a grateful and optimistic mindset.

In conclusion, my grandfather’s lessons on the power of choice have greatly influenced my approach to life. I strive to make conscious choices to be kind, hardworking, and happy, just as he did. His unwavering determination, kindness, and positivity continue to inspire me and will forever be a guiding light in my life’s journey.

Pranav, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a professional photographer currently based in Los Angeles, California, with my roots in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. My passion for photography sparked at a young age, being captivated by the power of a camera. Despite coming from a family of business-oriented individuals, I chose a career in photography, surprising and inspiring my loved ones, who have supported me wholeheartedly.

My photography services encompass various genres, including fashion, nightclubs, weddings, and behind the scenes. I strive to cater to my clients’ specific needs and capture their vision through visually compelling and captivating imagery.

One of my proudest achievements is the journey I have undertaken and the significant progress I have made. My time here in Los Angeles has been a transformative experience, providing valuable lessons and allowing me to accomplish great feats in my craft.

With a background in fashion, I possess a deep understanding of the importance of creating striking images that encompass a brand’s essence, individual style, or character. Whether it be a high-fashion editorial, runway coverage, or commercial campaign, I bring a unique perspective and expertise to every project.

In the thrilling realm of concert and nightclub photography, I thrive in capturing the energy and excitement of live performances. From intimate club shows to large-scale music festivals, my lens freezes those magical moments, effectively conveying the atmosphere and intensity of the experience.

Wedding photography holds a special place in my heart, as my goal is to transform each couple’s love story into a visual masterpiece. I have a knack for capturing raw emotions, intimate moments, and intricate details that make each wedding a unique celebration. My style blends candid and traditional approaches, ensuring that every aspect of the joyful occasion is beautifully portrayed.

When it comes to shooting behind the scenes, I am focused on capturing the magic that unfolds behind the curtains. Whether it be film sets, theaters, or fashion shoots, I thrive on documenting the intricate moments that are often overlooked. With my camera as a trusted companion, I have the privilege of witnessing the creativity, hard work, and dedication of talented individuals who bring stories to life. My ultimate goal is to showcase the raw emotions, candid interactions, and intense atmosphere, allowing viewers to develop a deeper appreciation for the behind the scenes efforts that make memorable productions possible.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

In the past, I believed that solely relying on my work would be enough to succeed and get ahead in my career. The notion of “letting my work speak for itself” was ingrained in me. However, over time, I have realized that there is much more to achieving success than just the quality of one’s work.

One important aspect of professional growth is effective communication. It is not enough to just do good work; you also need to be able to effectively communicate your ideas, thoughts, and progress to others. This includes being able to clearly articulate your goals, discuss challenges, and share updates with your colleagues, superiors, and stakeholders. Effective communication helps build relationships, foster collaboration, and ensures everyone is on the same page.

Additionally, being seen working and showing enthusiasm for each project is crucial. If you silently complete your tasks without actively engaging with others, it becomes difficult for them to understand the value you bring to the table. By actively participating in discussions, proposing ideas, and taking initiatives, you can establish yourself as an engaged and enthusiastic team member.

Showing interest and excitement for the projects you undertake not only reflects your dedication but also inspires others around you. When others see your passion, they are more likely to view you as a valuable asset and recognize your contributions. Enthusiasm can also serve as a catalyst for creativity and innovation, fostering an environment where new ideas are encouraged and embraced.

Furthermore, building relationships and networking play a crucial role in career progression. By actively engaging with your colleagues, supervisors, and industry professionals, you create opportunities for collaboration, learning, and growth. The connections you establish can lead to new opportunities, mentorship, and referrals, opening doors that would have otherwise remained closed.

In conclusion, while quality work is undoubtedly important, it is not the only factor that determines career success. Effective communication, being seen working, and demonstrating enthusiasm for your projects are equally significant. Taking the time to understand the importance of these elements and actively implementing them will not only help you stand out but also contribute to your overall professional growth and advancement in your chosen field.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

As a professional photographer the two main sources of my clientele have majorly been word of mouth and social media platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn

Contact Info:

• Website: https://shotbypranavmehta.com/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/shotbypranavmehta?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pranav-mehta-264688250?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Image Credits
Janak Panchal For Personal Photo