Photography Corner: Basic Gear For Beginners

Kavan Choksi explains that photography does not have to cost an arm and a leg. As a new freelancer, you may be tempted to buy high-end gear from the get-go, but you don't need to purchase everything immediately. You can achieve your photography goals by sticking to the essential equipment. You should invest in more gear only when you've developed your skills and become more confident with your shots.

Kavan Choksi explains that one's central budget will most likely go into a good camera, even if it's just a second-hand DSLR. After that, it is recommended to invest in a remote shutter release.

This equipment will prove essential in freelance work as it lets you take shots without touching the camera's body, thus helping you avoid blurring and camera shaking.

The remote shutter release should be complemented by a good and sturdy tripod. A reliable tripod helps the photographer become more versatile, making it easier to shoot various subjects, from portraits and wedding scenes to streets and landscapes.

Moreover, a tripod is excellent for low-light settings, letting you take long-exposure shots without worrying about camera shake. A tripod provides the stability necessary to take high-quality photos in a variety of settings and circumstances.

Kavan Choksi also mentions that you must buy a good SD memory card. It's always advisable to have a bunch of lower-capacity ones than a single piece with high storage capacity to avoid the risk of losing all your precious images if that one card were to get corrupted.

Lastly, go for a speed light or external flash. While flash is needed for particular shoots, it's not recommended to just settle for your camera's built-in flash, as it's likely to be of poor quality. Get an aftermarket external flash unit to ensure the best lighting when needed.

What other pieces of camera equipment would you recommend for beginners? Let Kavan Choksi know in the comments section below.

Six Historical Places Never To Miss In Dubai

Kavan Choksi explains that the beauty of Dubai reaches beyond modern hotels, luxurious shopping, and incredible skyscrapers. While the city has significantly evolved from the past, it never forgets its glorious history. Dubai is a city that can never be accused of erasing its roots. So, forget about shopping and luxurious lodging for a minute and travel to the past to see the historical Dubai.

For freelance photographer Kavan Choksi, one of the best places to visit in Dubai to be immersed in history is Dubai Old Town. In this town, travelers can go back in time and witness how Emiratis went about their business before the massive tourism and economic boom. Traditional restaurants serve authentic meals to deliver the complete Emirati experience. One of the Gulf's most prominent pearl-driving ports, the Dubai Creek offers a glimpse of how fishermen and merchants used to hold their transactions. For 1 AED, locals and tourists can traverse the waters of the creek via an abra ride.

The Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum House is among Dubai's most integral historical landmarks. At present, the residence operates as a museum. It's worth noting that the current ruler of the emirate grew up in this historical house. It displays the greatness of Arabian architecture. According to Kavan Choksi, the Dubai Spice Souk is an incredible traditional market worthy of everyone's time and attention. Foodies and cooking enthusiasts will find this traditional market incredibly appealing. Spices, teas, incense, artifacts, and textiles are available here.

The Hatta Heritage Village is a representation of a traditional Emirati village. The reconstruction is true to the form, complete with houses and beautiful mosques. The Dubai Museum & Al Fahidi Fort should be part of every visitor's itinerary. The Al Fahidi Fort was established in 1787, making it the oldest building in Dubai. The stronghold was developed to protect Dubai Creek. In addition, it has a rich history of being the designated residence of the monarch to being used as a prison, notes Kavan Choksi.

Improving Your Photography Skills Without a Camera

According to veteran photographer and avid traveler Kavan Choksi, aspiring pro photographers usually start their journey early in life. However, many become too technical and learn only what's taught in books. But in the field of photography, he points out, it's important to also learn from the experiences of other shutterbugs.

For this blog, Kavan Choksi talks from experience, specifically about how letting go of the camera for specific periods made him a better photographer.

Living in the moment

One of the best things about not holding a camera is it forces the photographer to live in the moment. There are times when events pass people by like a blur because they were too busy capturing moments they should have been experiencing.  

While photographers are required to be quick and creative, Kavan Choksi says that there are times when you won't always have to shoot. This time off from being the designated photographer allows you to enjoy whatever is happening at that very moment and helps you pay more attention to the world around you.

Living in the moment encourages you to value even more the subjects you usually photograph. It also provides you with a newfound appreciation for life beyond the camera.

Taking a break is good, too.

Some photographers even go one step further, taking days or even weeks off from their camera and looking at the world around them and their body of work.

Kavan Choksi believes you begin to feel comfortable with everything you do when you've been a photographer for a long time. Maybe even too comfortable. This is why he takes short breaks to give himself a chance to reevaluate his progress and what he's been doing.  

Breaks from the camera are times when you can think about how you perceive the world and everything in it, Kavan Choksi adds.

Everything you Need to Know About Dubai's Coffee History and Culture

Locals and travelers can agree that the coffee scene in Dubai is unlike any other. From the traditional Arabic coffee to the latest trends in third-wave coffee, there's always something for everyone. For those who want to learn more about Dubai's coffee history and culture, here is everything you need to know.

A Rich History and Tradition The history and tradition of Arabian coffee began 600 years ago, mentions freelance photographer Kavan Choksi. Legend suggests that the first coffee beans to reach The Gulf of Arabia were from Ethiopia through Yemen. These traveled to Turkey and Europe from the Gulf of Arabia before reaching South America. From its arrival to this day, Arabic coffee remains a symbol of hospitality. Visitors arriving in Dubai will often be served Arabic coffee upon arrival as a welcome gesture.

To provide locals, travelers, and coffee enthusiasts with an intricate and accurate demonstration of the cultural significance of coffee, the Coffee Museum was established. The Coffee Museum is one of the first of its kind in the world. It is a nonprofit organization dedicated to spreading the knowledge and appreciation of coffee. The museum offers educational programs and tastings highlighting coffee's history, science, and culture. According to Kavan Choksi, the Coffee Museum is also home to the world's most extensive collection of coffee-related artifacts.

A Unique Experience For those who want hands-on experience, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. Many local coffee shops offer classes on making the perfect cup of coffee. These classes often include a tour of the shop's roastery and brewing facilities. Regardless of a person's coffee preference, they will find it in Dubai. From Arabic coffee to Turkish coffee, latte, and espresso, there's always something for everyone. Come and explore the coffee scene in Dubai, where history and culture come together to create a unique experience.

Food Trip: Unique Dining Experiences In Dubai

Dubai is a city recognized for its extravagance and luxury. While many people come to the UAE city for the shopping and high-end hotels, there are also plenty of amazing dining spots. If you are searching for something different from typical restaurants, freelance photographer Kavan Choksi recommends these culinary destinations in Dubai.

Atmosphere Sitting 122 floors up the Burj Khalifa, Atmosphere provides a scenic and unparalleled city view. You can have afternoon tea in the cafe or head to the restaurant for an exceptional dinner with contemporary gourmet menus. If the floor is not high enough for you, you can also book a table at The Lounge, located 30 floors up.

Dinner in the Sky Have you ever dreamed of having a meal up in the sky? If you feel adventurous, try visiting Dinner in the Sky at Skydive Dubai for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will be secured into a seat attached to a table while suspended around 50 meters. In addition, the chefs will prepare your food right in front of you. Kavan Choksi notes that a professional supervisor is present to ensure the safety of all the guests.

Ossiano If eating up in the air is too intimidating for you, try dining below the sea instead. Ossiano at the Atlantis Palm is an underwater restaurant renowned for its seafood dishes. This location is adorned with gorgeous chandeliers, and right behind the glass windows is a vast array of sea life to enjoy as you dine.

Sonara Camp If you want to swap the crowded city for a serene and peaceful meal under the stars, visit Sonara Camp on the outskirts of Dubai. The dishes at the Sonara Camp are prepared by world-class chefs and combine traditional Arabian flavors with Western tastes to create exciting new flavors. Kavan Choksi recommends going on an overnight adventure for the complete Arabian experience.

Backlight in photography: Expert tips and tricks

Backlight in photography refers to light that comes from behind the subject. When used correctly, Kavan Choksi mentions that backlight can create a beautiful and striking effect in your photos. It can be a great way to add depth and interest to your photos, but it can also be tricky to use effectively.

Kavan Choksi shares a few tips to help you get the most out of the backlight in your photography.

1. Consider the direction of the light. Backlight can be either front-lighting or side-lighting. Front-lighting occurs when the light source is in front of the subject, while side-lighting occurs when the light source is located to one side of the subject. Each type of lighting has its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

2. Find an interesting subject that will make good use of the light. Backlight can create beautiful highlights and shadows on your subject, so look for something that will show off these effects to their best advantage.

3. Adjust your camera's settings to take advantage of the backlight. For example, increase the exposure slightly so that the highlights are brighter and the shadows are darker. This will create more contrast and make your photo more visually appealing.

4. Experiment with different angles and compositions to see what works best. For example, try shooting from below your subject to create a more dramatic effect or framing your shot so that the light shines through the subject for a more ethereal look.

That said, there are also a few things that you shouldn't do when using a backlight. For example, don't overexpose your photo, or it will lose all its detail. Also, be careful not to have too much contrast in your composition, as this can be visually jarring and distracting, Kavan Choksi adds.

With a bit of practice, you'll be able to use backlight to create stunning photos that stand out from the crowd. Thanks for reading!

Photography Tips for the Middle East

Middle Eastern countries have some of the most breathtaking landscapes globally, whether natural or artificial. From the vast deserts of Saudi Arabia and Iraq to the stunning beaches of Oman and Lebanon, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this region.

According to veteran photographer Kavan Choksi, one of the most modern and popular tourist destinations in the Middle East is Dubai in the UAE. This city is home to some of the most luxurious hotels and resorts in the world and some of the most imaginative, innovative, artistic, and jaw-dropping skyscrapers. The city is also known for its shopping malls, which are among the biggest in the world.

And Dubai is just one of the countless places in this region that photographers could call paradise.

On that note, Kavan Choksi shares expert photography tips when taking pictures in Middle Eastern countries, based on his vast experience in the area.

1. When photographing people, always ask their permission first. It is considered rude to take someone's picture without first asking. 2. Dress modestly when photographing religious sites or people. When in doubt, err on the side of conservatism. 3. Be aware of cultural sensitivities when photographing locals. For example, avoid taking photos of women with their hair uncovered or men without shirts. 4. Be aware of local customs and laws regarding photography. For example, it is illegal to take pictures of government buildings or military installations in some cases. 5. Always be respectful when taking pictures in Middle Eastern countries, and remember that the people and cultures you are photographing are not tourist attractions. Be humble and patient when taking photographs, and always ask permission before taking someone's picture. 6. Always pack your camera with plenty of spare batteries and memory cards. The landscapes and people of the Middle East make for some great photography subjects, Kavan Choksi adds.

Photographer's corner: Why iPhones make great cameras

When Apple's iPhone was first introduced, it was a massive hit. Over the years, with new iterations of the iconic Apple device, more developments led to more jaw-dropping technologies and innovative features.

Today, one of the iPhone's most beloved and sought-after features is its camera.

Kavan Choksi, a photographer who's worked in places such as UAE and Singapore, believes that the iPhone has an excellent camera.

It's become more important to always have a nice phone with you, so taking better photos is very useful. Let's talk about some of the iPhone's best functions that make taking pictures easy and fun.

A feature called Burst Mode makes taking photos fast and easy. You can hold the button as it takes photos every half-second, which is great for action shots like sporting events or something that moves fast.

Another feature is Slo-Mo, which uses 120 frames per second to create a slow-motion video of an activity. Photos with Depth can have two different types of focus, creating a blurred background that's not the same as the standard Portrait Mode.

There's also something for just taking photos alone, called Cinemagraphs and Photos with Shadows and Faces. A cinemagraph allows you to select a portion of video footage and turn it into a looping GIF. The photo with the shadow instead of a face helps hide someone's face, and Kavan Choksi says it can be used to take pictures in front of famous landmarks without anyone being there.

As you can see, a myriad of excellent features has been added to the iPhone that makes it both easy and fun to use your camera more.

Do you own an iPhone? If you do, what camera feature do you love using the most? Feel free to share your insights with Kavan Choksi in the comments section below.

Three architectural photography tips to get the ultimate shot

People crave images of the places and structures they love. Compelling photography offers an excellent representation of spatial experiences. The ability to take clear, well-composed photographs is an essential skill for any professional or aspiring photographer. Freelance photographer Kavan Choksi offers three tips that anyone can use to improve their architectural compositions.

Make the most out of bad weather Many photographers cancel shoots when the weather isn't in their favor. To prevent having to reschedule due to bad weather, a photographer must learn how to take compelling photos in all weather conditions. As Kavan Choksi points out, images with different weather backdrops encapsulate the true relationship of the structure with its surroundings. In other words, learn to use inclement weather to showcase the richness of the environment you are shooting.

Look for distinctive angles and a different perspective Certain structures boast a unique geometry. Find a particular angle that sets it apart from others and be sure to capture it. Having taken the usual exterior shots, look for a unique perspective that best represents the architectural structure and its relationship with the environment. Capture its details and remember that some details may be best seen through shots from the outside, while other distinctive qualities are best witnessed from the interior. Explore its details and switch between different lenses to accurately represent these qualities.

Post-processing tools are your friend While most of the work happens during shoots, don't be afraid to use post-processing tools. According to Kavan Choksi, tweak the image according to the atmosphere most appropriate for the objective of the shoot. This is especially true when deciding on the final color of the photograph. When showcasing the unique qualities of an architectural structure, shooting in color would be the way to go. Should you want to highlight its striking geometry, use black and white.

Essential gear pieces and techniques for effective photography

Most of the time, the difference between a top-quality image and a blurry one is a photographer's technique. While some gear pieces are dedicated to expert use, expensive professional gear can never replace proper camera handling and composition. In this blog post, freelance photographer Kavan Choksi, who travels extensively to different countries, including the UAE, discusses essential techniques and gear pieces for stellar images.

When it comes to technique, many beginning photographers struggle with the hold. Be sure to hold the camera steady using the right hand and use the left hand to support the weight, positioned under the camera for a firm grip while having easy access to the lens. Tuck your elbows in for a secure stance. If standing, the best stance would be having the feet shoulder-width apart or slightly wider for great balance. Should you kneel for a better perspective, avoid resting your elbow on your kneecap. Instead, rest your triceps on your knee for a more stable and comfortable shooting position.

It's integral for a photographer to keep a few extra batteries and memory cards in their arsenal. These may not seem like the most glamorous photography items to keep, but these sure keep one shooting for a long time. Also, invest in a sturdy camera bag. Storing expensive gear pieces in a subpar bag could damage your gear.

Having photographed magnificent destinations in the UAE, Kavan Choksi shares that a durable tripod is a gear piece every photographer must-have. A tripod allows a photographer to take long exposure shots. In addition, using this photography equipment helps eliminate camera shake.