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Ethnic Fashion Modeling and Creative Collaborations

byShreya BalajiIn-person classes at studio in BengaluruStarts from₹1,500 per class (60 mins)View full gallery

When I step in front of the camera, it isn't just about the outfit. I use the same rhythm and expressions from my Bharatanatyam training to bring soul to every frame.

Modeling a beautiful yellow 'Manjal' cotton saree. The hand gestures of Bharatanatyam lend a unique grace to ethnic wear photoshoots.

Another shot from the 'Manjal' series, showcasing the elegance of a simple cotton saree combined with a classical dance mudra.

A close-up look at the 'kartarimukha' mudra while modeling this lovely yellow saree. My dance background influences my work as a model.

A bright and cheerful look for the 'Naaranghi' series. I enjoy collaborating with brands that celebrate color and traditional Indian aesthetics.

Flaunting a traditional cotton kurti with a zari border. My personal style is deeply rooted in comfortable and elegant ethnic wear.

About Art Beyond the Stage: Collaborations & Modeling

My approach to modeling is inseparable from my life as a dancer. When I pose, I rely on my knowledge of Abhinaya (expressive acting) and Mudras (hand gestures) to give life to fabrics, especially traditional handlooms. Brands often collaborate with me because I understand how to drape a saree and hold a posture so it looks natural and graceful, rather than stiff or staged.

Graded Doordarshan artist and performing dancer — Approved by the tribe
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Shreya Balaji

In-person classes at studio in BengaluruStarts from ₹1,500 per class (60 mins)

I’m Shreya. I spend my days dancing and my moments between rehearsals modeling for brands that celebrate our culture. I bring the same gratitude and devotion to a photoshoot that I bring to the temple stage.

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For me, modeling is about becoming part of a scene and telling its story. This moody, atmospheric shot from a monsoon series in Bengaluru captures the exact kind of emotion I love to create, blending the elegance of a saree with the raw beauty of nature.8
I have a deep passion for heritage jewelry, and this shoot allowed me to embody a classic South Indian aesthetic. The focus here was on showcasing the intricate details of the temple jewelry and the rich texture of the silk saree, creating a timeless bridal or festive look.
I love shoots that have a nostalgic feel. Posing with this vintage car on a quiet Bengaluru street, we created a story that feels like a moment paused in time. It shows my versatility in creating character-driven portraits for lifestyle and fashion brands.

Featured Creative Portfolio: Modeling & Artistic Campaigns

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Shreema UpadhyayaAvailable for shoots across Bengaluru & India
This is the kind of energy and look I bring to every shoot. I specialize in making ethnic wear pop, ensuring your brand's designs are showcased with confidence and style. This vibrant, multi-colored lehenga is a perfect example of the Desi Glam I love.10
It's all in the details. This shot highlights the beautiful back and intricate embroidery of a festive pink lehenga, perfect for a daytime wedding function. I focus on capturing the craftsmanship that makes each piece special.

My Featured Work & Brand Collaborations

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Khushboo NandwaniAvailable online and travels across India for shoots
A moment of fluidity against the backdrop of the open sky and sea. Outdoor shoots allow for a beautiful interplay between the natural elements and the structured art form.29
Dancing in the waves. The splash of the water adds an unpredictable and dynamic element to the photograph, capturing a moment of spontaneous connection with nature.
An experimental shoot exploring the interaction of dance and water. The resulting image has a divine, ethereal quality, like a sculpture coming to life.
A candid moment during a beach photoshoot. The flowing saree against the sea breeze creates a beautiful, organic movement that complements the dance mudra.

Bharatanatyam Photography: Capturing Grace and Motion

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Sushmitha SureshTravels for performances in Bengaluru & Chennai; Online choreography available
This shot captures the energy of Bharatanatyam. I use a dramatic red backdrop and studio lighting to make the dancer's pose, traditional silk costume, and expressions the absolute focus.6
I love capturing the details. This close up highlights the abhinaya, or facial expression, which is the soul of classical dance. The lighting focuses on the intricate temple jewellery and traditional hair styling.
My collaboration shoots aren't limited to the studio. Here, we used the natural landscape and a flowing saree to create a powerful, scenic portrait with an ethnic feel.

Classical Dance Portraits: Moody Studio Sessions in Bangalore

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Solomon's StudioStudio location in Bengaluru
A monochrome shot from the 'Quismois' series, where we used a projector to create abstract light patterns. This image showcases my ability to work with experimental lighting.9
A colorful portrait from the 'Quismois' series. The warm, fire-like projection on my face and body creates a dramatic and painterly effect for conceptual art.
A playful pose in a green satin dress from the 'Art in Motion' series. The bubble pigtails and quirky glasses show my fun side and my skill in self-styling for creative shoots.
Bringing a bit of meme culture to a fashion shoot. Wearing pixelated 'thug life' glasses, this shot shows I don't take myself too seriously and am up for fun, creative ideas.

Artistic and Conceptual Modeling for Unique Shoots

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Soundarya JayaramAvailable for shoots across Bengaluru
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Ethnic & Festive Fashion Shoots

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Manisha ShrotriyaAvailable online and for projects across Mumbai Metropolitan Area

More from Bharatanatyam Classes by Shreya Balaji

FeaturedGrand Productions & Ensemble PerformancesMy Dance Family: The Brundavan CommunityThe Soloist: Artistry & ExpressionRecognition & Milestones

More services by Shreya Balaji

Dance ChoreographyBharatanatyam PerformancesEthnic Fashion Modeling
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