Today we’d like to introduce you to Sri Thumati.
Sri, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started photography in earnest way back in 1998, before which I spent two years in a dark room printing friends’ negatives. I don’t see photography as a career because it’s now an aspect of my personality. Over the years it has turned into my only profession, and not just my artistic outlet.
As for where I am today, it’s hard to say. Of course one has to be inventive, which is probably where I am. Photography has a completely different meaning now compared to when I started, so I’m always striving to keep my authenticity while keeping up with the times.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The only aspect of it that has been smooth is having the knowledge that this is all I ever want to do. Sometimes that too was a struggle.
Yes, it’s been a struggle. Right from figuring out what I want to photograph for a living to finding the people who will hire me. It’s the old stereotype of artists not having good business acumen. I fit that stereotype to a T. I think I’m getting better at it though. And I now know what sort of clients I want to pursue.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the ThumatiPics story. Tell us more about the business.
For the longest time I was very focused on photographing people. I still do that of course, but it’s mostly for personal fine art projects. Now I have honed in on architectural and interior photography. I get excited when design and light come together in my frames. The key to a beautiful space is the right kind of light, as is the same for a photograph. So it’s been rather fun working in this genre.
I also specialize in an alternative photography method called Cyanotype. I make lampshades using this process and sell them at art/craft fairs. This actually fits quite well with my interior photography, as it makes me think about home decor. Each piece I make is one-of-a-kind and I’m hoping to start selling in stores soon.
I think the biggest thing that sets me apart is, that while I’m looking for clients who will pay for my skills and talent, I’m not losing sight of what each assignment means to me. My photos are not cookie-cutter, they’re not blasted with light, I combine my fine art training with the client’s requirements. I really try to allow the viewer to experience the space I photograph.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I don’t know that it has. Mostly I would say hard work has paid off. And I have more of that to do, so I’m staying realistic!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thumatipics.com
- Email: thumatis@yahoo.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thumatipics/
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