Today we’d like to introduce you to Amrit Mahabir.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
From a young age, my artistic inclinations drew me deeply into the realms of drawing and visual arts. This early fascination evolved into a keen interest in architecture and design, leading me to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Design at Parsons The New School for Design in Manhattan. It was during my time at Parsons, while seeking to enrich my architectural models and spatial narratives, that I discovered a profound passion for photography.
Intrigued by the interplay of light and form, I immersed myself in photography courses, learning the technical artistry and the emotive power of capturing moments. This exploration ignited a desire to see where the lens could take me creatively. I began by photographing editorial content for local artists and brands, diligently honing my post-processing skills to refine my artistic vision.
Returning to my roots in Orlando after several formative years, I felt a strong calling to contribute my developed skills to the community that shaped me. It was a natural progression to blend my editorial and fashion sensibilities with the heartfelt world of weddings, and thus, my brand was born. Initially, my focus was on providing artistic documentation for couples on their most significant day.
Over the years, this journey has blossomed into something even more profound. While I cherish the creative process, I’ve come to realize that my deepest fulfillment lies in the connection with the individuals I photograph. It’s about offering my very best to those who are genuine and true, and delivering images that encapsulate their joy for a lifetime. And so, here I stand today, deeply grateful and humbled by the opportunity to capture the radiant happiness of others in the most beautiful and enduring way possible.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey has certainly been marked by its share of significant challenges. During my scholastic years, I navigated the complexities of financial constraints alongside difficult living situations. One particularly impactful period was living precariously in New York in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, which took a considerable emotional and physical toll. The conditions were such that it felt akin to homelessness, yet this difficult experience unexpectedly revealed an inner strength and resilience I didn’t know I possessed.
Beyond external circumstances, I also grappled with profound internal questions about my identity and purpose. While my desire to create and contribute positively to the lives of others was always clear, I wrestled with persistent doubts: ‘Am I truly capable? Will I face failure? Can I provide value with genuine integrity?’ This internal struggle centered on finding my place and understanding how best to offer my gifts to the world.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
AM Photo & Design Inc is photography brand, where I serve as the owner and lead photographer, specializing in the vibrant and culturally rich world of Indian Wedding Photography. Currently, we intentionally maintain a low volume of new client engagements. This allows us the distinct pleasure of carefully selecting the couples we feel a deep connection with and whose vision truly resonates with our artistic approach. As photography is a cherished passion pursued alongside my primary career, my time is a precious resource. Therefore, we are dedicated to offering the full prestige of our artistry and time to those who genuinely appreciate our brand and entrust us with their most significant moments. While we are honored by numerous inquiries, our commitment to providing an exceptional, personalized experience necessitates this selective process, often prioritizing those who have shown us unwavering support throughout our ten-year journey.
Our relationship with our wedding clients often evolves into a beautiful, long-term connection. Having shared in their wedding day, we are frequently invited to capture subsequent milestones – from the delicate joy of maternity portraits to the tender beauty of newborn and family photography. While Indian weddings are our primary focus, the privilege of continuing to document these families’ journeys is a deeply rewarding aspect of our work, a heartfelt thank you to those who first placed their trust in us.
What truly distinguishes AM Photo & Design is our foundational belief in creating exceptional, meaningful artwork for our clients. My artistic journey began with a deep immersion in art history, particularly the dramatic and evocative Baroque period. My photographic style is profoundly influenced by this era, characterized by the intentional use of light and shadow to create dynamic compositions and a sense of hierarchical importance, reminiscent of the sfumato technique. The dramatic interplay of light and shadow, along with a triangular compositional structure, imbues our images with depth and emotional resonance. While this style may differ from contemporary wedding photography trends, I am passionate about bringing this feeling of profound emotion and artistry to our clients’ most cherished memories. We strive to do more than simply capture an image; we aim to encapsulate the inherent grandeur of a moment and infuse it with a palpable sense of feeling.
The aspect of AM Photo & Design that fills me with the greatest pride is our unwavering commitment to authenticity and integrity in every facet of our work. This isn’t merely a business driven by volume, but a creative endeavor rooted in a genuine desire to share our artistic gifts with those who appreciate our vision. We prioritize honesty, transparency, and a genuine connection with our clients at every step. We uphold the highest standards of quality and professionalism, choosing to remain true to our values rather than engaging in practices that compromise the genuine experience we aim to provide.
Ultimately, what I hope your readers take away from learning about AM Photo & Design’s offerings and services is the profound truth that the core motivation behind any endeavor should be to bring happiness to others. When we prioritize making others happy, we, in turn, discover a lasting and meaningful joy ourselves.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memories are deeply intertwined with cherished moments spent with my family. It was a time filled with laughter, the creation of lasting memories, and the quiet yet profound cultivation of strong character, values, and dreams that have shaped who I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amritmanoj.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amritmanojphoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmritManojPhotography
Image Credits
Raja Kumar
Shanna Kumar
Brian Bishundat
Kimberly Bishundat
Chris Singh
Marlyna Singh
Jason Fedele
Marissa Fedele
Kathleen Maylath
Alex Kohs
Jessica Kohs
Raphael Massa
Deandra Massa
