HELLO! Pakistan proudly features Tejaswi Ghagada, a distinguished fashion and celebrity photographer whose captivating work transcends boundaries. Join us as we explore the journey of 'TJ', a visionary artist reshaping the photography landscape.
In the dynamic world of photography, few artists stand out as distinctly as Tejaswi Ghagada, fondly known as TJ, the co-founder of Crossover Studios. Based in Dubai, TJ is a self-taught fashion and celebrity photographer, whose work is not just a display of images but a vivid storytelling medium. With a bold, visionary, and unique sense of style, she transforms thoughts, emotions, and ideas into captivating visual narratives.
TJ's journey in photography is marked by her passionate approach. Each project she embarks on is infused with a dash of her creativity, setting her work apart in the bustling crowd. Her clean aesthetics and engaging imagery mark her as an unconventional photographer, one who perceives the chaotic world through a distinct lens.
Her versatility extends beyond the camera. Having been on both sides of the business, TJ possesses astute management skills, seamlessly handling potential shortcomings and loopholes in projects. This proficiency has earned her a roster of satisfied clients, including film stars, designers, and influencers.
TJ's career is a testament to her life's mission: to thrive with passion, compassion, humor, and style. Her portfolio boasts collaborations with celebrities like Kareena Kapoor, Arjun Kapoor, and Janhvi Kapoor, among others. Her work has graced the pages of renowned publications such as Cosmopolitan, L'Officiel Arabia, and Travel and Leisure.
TJ's artistic journey began with a degree in Fashion Design from NIFT India, followed by a stint as a fashion merchandiser in Dubai. Her foray into photography was serendipitous, stemming from her role in social media management, where she began creating content with her DSLR. This experience ignited her passion for photography, leading her to explore the myriad facets of this art form.
The essence of TJ's work lies in her ability to blend creative freedom with entrepreneurial growth. However, this journey is not without its challenges. Balancing creativity with business acumen, managing administrative work, and constantly evolving in a dynamic industry are aspects she navigates daily.
Inspiration for TJ comes from a deep understanding of diverse cultures, history, and market trends, often influenced by movies, music, and her spiritual journey. Her typical workday is a blend of planning, client collaboration, and meticulous attention to both pre and post-production processes.
TJ's strengths lie in her relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth and her deep understanding of fashion, courtesy of her background. Her perfectionism, while a strength, also emerges as her weakness, as it sometimes leads to an overemphasis on minute details.
Keeping abreast with the latest trends, TJ is always on the lookout for innovative elements to incorporate into her work. Her career aspirations include establishing a strong presence in global markets and creating a comprehensive suite of services to meet the diverse needs of her clientele. She envisions a production house that not only showcases a blend of creative talents but also serves as a platform for emerging artists in the industry.
When discussing brands or celebrities she aspires to work with, TJ doesn't fixate on specific names. Instead, her ambition is to collaborate with major design houses, reflecting her desire to continuously scale new heights in her professional journey.
TJ's career is underpinned by a strong set of ethics. She believes in honesty, realistic expectations, and the power of teamwork. Collaboration is key in her approach, and she values the contributions of others in the industry. This ethos extends to her handling of challenges and innovation. She acknowledges the inevitability of creative blocks and personal challenges but chooses to embrace them with patience and resilience.
Managing stress is another critical aspect of her career, which she addresses by prioritizing mental health. Taking breaks and introspection are vital to her process, allowing her to rejuvenate and return to her work with renewed vigor.
TJ's advice to young creatives is poignant and empowering. She urges them to embrace their failures and not to judge themselves too harshly. Experimentation, she believes, is key to growth in the creative field. She encourages aspiring photographers to find inspiration but to avoid comparisons, emphasizing the uniqueness of each artist's journey.
Her portfolio is a testament to her versatility and includes campaigns for brands like Indomie KSA, Pepsi Arabia, Amato Couture, and LuluLemon. Each project showcases her ability to adapt and innovate, making her a sought-after name in the world of fashion and celebrity photography.
In conclusion, Tejaswi Ghagada, or TJ, is more than just a photographer; she is a visionary artist and entrepreneur. Her journey from fashion merchandising to becoming a celebrated photographer is a source of inspiration. Her work is not just about capturing images; it's about capturing stories, emotions, and the very essence of her subjects. As she continues to evolve and expand her horizons, the photography world eagerly anticipates her next captivating project.
Text: HELLO! Pakistan
Photos: Courtesy Tejaswi Ghagada