Today we’d like to introduce you to Ajay Doshi.
Ajay, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’m a software developer and general technologist by training. After 15 years working in various technology roles for companies ranging from large investment banks to startups, I felt uninspired and yearned for something different. I was looking for something that would force me to think differently; something that I had an organic passion for andI loved doing for the sake of simply doing it.
Earlier in my life, I’d joked that I would like to be a professional photographer and videographer while never once taking the thought seriously. I now asked myself why not give it a shot? I’ve always loved the art form. Both combine technical know-how, cool gadgets and storytelling. It is something I’ve long yearned to do and to be good at. About a year ago, I reached a point in my technology career where it truly became a means to an end. Around that time I happened to meet two professional photographers/videographers and they quickly became friends and mentors. With their patient guidance and encouragement I started on the path of improving my ability to capture the moment in photographs and videos; learning how to work with light, the benefits and drawbacks of various lenses, the technical aspects of a camera, etc. But most importantly, my mentors helped me understand how to work with clients and how to tell stories visually. Once I had a rudimentary foundation to lean on, I started taking on clients. I remember my first video shoot – it was about 6 months ago and was filled with terror and excitement. It was the first time I was being paid to produce videos and I was working completely on my own. I made a few mistakes and my workflow was very inefficient, but I was able to capture the story my client wanted and hand over a product that she was happy with. I actually did it!
This journey that I have been on has been rewarding in ways I could not possibly imagine. It has forced me to think differently, learn new skills, and work outside my comfort zone. Most importantly, it’s taught me what it is like to strike out on a different path and that sometimes you just need to trust yourself and take the first step.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I’ve had the benefit of having oversight from two wonderful and talented mentors. This has made my path much easier. There were a number personal hurdles that I had to overcome. The responsibility of working with clients and being charged with telling their story when you do not have a portfolio nor much prior work experience was daunting. The fear of failing or disappointing a client was something that almost stopped me from pushing forward. What allowed me to take that step was a lot of training, advice, and a leap of faith in myself. Interestingly, the experience of taking the leap has given me much more confidence not only in subsequent job, but also in myself in general.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Interstice Photography – what should we know?
I offer general photography and videography services including events, brand stories, and interviews. I spend some time talking with the client to understand what they are looking for and how they plan to use the visual content. Based on this I develop a solution with them, explaining why I have taken this approach, and once we have agreed on a path, I go ahead and plan the shoot. I’ve found that front loading the shoot with these discussions has enabled the client to better understand the process and has usually produced a final product that they are happy with.
I also have prior experience in marketing/advertising analytics, website development, and proprietary software development. It’s an interesting combination and to my surprise has proven useful when working with photography and videography clients.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I could not have taken the steps over the past few months without the advice and encouragement from Minh Huynh and Karen Morrison. Both provided guidance, structure, equipment and encouragement which allowed me to understand cameras and how to use them to tell a story.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.interstice.co/
Image Credit:
Karen Morrison, Minh Huynh, Ajay Doshi
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