FRAMING HER WORLD

In the vast and vibrant world of photography, few artists manage to capture the essence of their subjects with the depth and sincerity that Sanhita Banerjee does. Born in India and now residing in Australia for over two decades, Sanhita is a self-taught photography enthusiast whose work transcends the mere act of taking pictures. In this interview, Sanhita Banerjee shares insights into her journey with photography, her inspirations, memorable experiences, and the intricate balance between portrait and travel photography. She also offers valuable advice for beginners in the field, emphasising the importance of continuous learning, resilience, and exploration. Join us as we delve into the mind and artistry of Sanhita Banerjee, a remarkable photographer whose work not only showcases the beauty of the world we live in, but also reminds us of the shared humanity that connects us all.

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Can you share how your journey with photography began and what inspired you to pick up the camera initially?

I had never imagined myself as a photographer in my early years, my academic and professional life was based around teaching. I lived in Outback Australia for a long time, a place teeming with scenes of rugged beauty and stark contrast. I always had a poet and artist in me and with the advent of social media in its very nascent stage at that time, I felt the best way to portray my work was by photography. I am completely self-taught and started with the very basics to slowly come to grasps with it and realise my full potential. Photography became my passion and has been therapeutic for me, it allowed me to connect with diverse people around the globe. These experiences have and continue to be beneficial for my mental and spiritual wellbeing.

Could you share who or what has been your biggest inspiration in your journey as a photographer, and how has this influence shaped your approach to capturing moments?

Observing other photographers has definitely been the strongest inspiration for me when I was just starting out and even today. The dedication and hard work put in by them is often overlooked by many, but as someone who has travelled extensively to destinations off the beaten path, I know how physically and mentally tiring photo trips can be. Withstanding harsh climates and spending weeks in the middle of nowhere is not for everyone. To be able to weather the challenges and still capture stunning shots shows their expertise. Out of all the brilliant photographers out there, I have made it a point to keenly follow those who have influenced me intensely, to name a few they are Ami Vitale, Alessandro Bergamini, Cristina Mittermeier, Katie Orlinski, Timothy Allen and Apratim Saha.