Ace photographer Sheena Sippy brings her magic to Dubai – News

‘Memory Maker’ on what still photography means in the modern ‘social media’ world

In the past, people were wary of being photographed because they thought a photographer could capture a person’s soul through a camera.

Cut into the modern world, where people are ready to pose at the flick of a finger, but even if you gaze into the abyss of images strewn across social media, you’ll be hard-pressed to find many photos with a soul.

How relevant is photography in a world awash in Instagram snaps of “perfect photos” that mask the shadows and darkness beneath the surface.

“We couldn’t resist the rapid development of technology,” admits Sheena Sippy, a portrait photographer for over 25 years.

“It really serves the purpose of democratizing art and gaining access to other expensive mediums. Smartphones have their limitations, but in the hands of smart photographers you can make interesting content. Famous photographers use their phones to shoot magazine covers and commercials. In the end, the decision Interesting photography is more about the eyes than the tools. But of course, better tools allow you to capture a better version of that moment.”

Daughter of Padma Shri filmmaker Ramesh Sippy, Sheena has been honing her skills over the years and will be in Dubai from May 5-15 to offer her expertise to those looking to capture lasting memories.

“Memory Maker” tells us why vintage photos are still relevant in a world that tries to preserve precious memories of ourselves and our loved ones.

How do you react in a world where photography is generally considered a lost art and everyone considers themselves a great photographer with the latest phone?

This is such a complex question with no easy answer… The evolution of technology is inevitable and important. We all benefit from access to affordable technology. I’ll admit, though, that I’m tired of seeing tons of ordinary images and indiscriminate sharing of mundane vanity! However, I do believe there is a difference between capturing memories for our own records and capturing professional moments for future generations. Ultimately, the spirit and eyes of the artist will be the differentiating factor. Better tools allow you to capture a better version of that moment.

You belong to an exceptional family of filmmakers. So, do you think it’s only natural that you’re drawn to this field of still photography? Do you remember the moment in childhood that paved the way for you as a photographer?

Yes, I grew up in a family that loves movies. In those days, Hindi movies were considered a taboo rather than a triumph. But I remember realizing that this is not your usual 9-to-5 world. It’s a fictional world where hundreds of people must gather for hours, days and weeks to bring seconds on screen to life. A world where hundreds of anonymous musicians come together to orchestrate backing scores that audiences take for granted. I am fascinated by this world. My maternal grandfather was an avid photographer. I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting him, but I’m sure I must have inherited some of his passion, and I was further drawn to photography when I received the camera as a birthday present when I was 9 or 10 years old. Then I became a self-appointed family photographer and that was the beginning of my journey…no matter what I do, photography will continue to be an important part of my life.

Your Insta identifies you as a “memory maker.” What is your personal best memory so far? How did you manage to keep it forever?

Without a doubt, I would say that capturing the childhoods of my son Zahan and daughter Shaira is something I will always cherish, and I hope they will too. Material possessions are fungible, at least most of them…and minds can be fragile…many of my own memories are actually from my childhood photos.

Many people complain that they are not photogenic; they are dissatisfied with any images of themselves. In your opinion, what is a good subject for photography?

Whether we admit it or not, we all harbor a certain vanity. We are all aware of our reflections, and we filter and curate the images of ourselves we share. Over the years, society and social media have defined parameters of beauty that are far from standard… and far from reality. But at the end of the day, we are all unique and should embrace our traits and flaws in order to create an honest portrait of ourselves. In the film industry, the man who did it with aplomb was Pedro Almodóvar. Real life is a canvas of all shapes, sizes, colors and features.

Photographers are supposed to capture the essence of a person; how people imagine themselves to be, not what they actually are. How do you face this challenge?

Annie Leibovitz has a beautiful quote that sums it up for me… Be a witness, a friend, a judge, an accomplice. record their moments. “For me, it’s a delicate balance, a dialogue and exploration between artist and muse.

In your experience, what’s the trick to getting a good photo?

Million dollar question! timing? luck? light? mood? angle? work? tell a story? It takes a lot to get a good photo…

You’ve photographed celebrities, from Naomi Campbell to Amitabh Bachchan and more. Who is the celebrity you’re dying to photograph?

There are two celebrity couples I’m in awe of and would love to take pictures with their families: George and Amal Clooney and Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds. To me, both represent beauty and intelligence, along with a little sense of humor!

What can clients expect from your Dubai photography courses?

I wish to share a slightly candid approach to taking family portraits. I want the kind of portraits I create to be timeless treasures, passed down from generation to generation. To illustrate the value, I have a friend who always reminds me that if she has to flee her home, the only thing she’ll take is my photo of her little boy. But the biggest compliments and recognition I’ve received are from the kids I’ve photographed who have grown up telling me that my pictures are their favorite!

Sheena Sippy will be in Dubai for her ‘Making Memories’ photography session from May 5-15. From couples to babies, families and pets, a meeting can be booked for everyone looking to capture unforgettable memories. Email sheenasippy@gmail.com or WhatsApp to 00919820233393 to book a slot that includes a 120 minute session with 21 edited photos for AED 4500.