Behind the Scenes: My Creative Photography Process
People see the final image and think it is just a click. The truth is, the magic happens way before the shutter fires. Here is my process, from the first sketch to the final edit.
From a digital sketch on my tablet to the final, perfectly lit product shot. This video shows how I visualize and execute a creative concept from start to finish.
This is how a custom set is made. From laser cutting the pieces to painting and assembling them, a lot of work goes into creating the perfect environment for a product shot.
A glimpse into some of the creative techniques I use, like hanging objects with fishing wire and building custom rigs to get a unique, rotating shot.
Ever wondered what goes into a fashion shoot? This black and white BTS video shows the lighting setup, the model, and the team working together to create those perfect shots.
A quick look behind the scenes of a shoot for the brand Skkulpt. It shows me behind the camera, directing the model, and capturing the shots that will define their campaign.
A fun and hectic day shooting furniture. It's not always glamorous; sometimes it involves moving heavy pieces and taking a quick break for a cold drink.
A compilation of moments from a shoot day, from reviewing shots with the client on camera to styling products on set. It's all about collaboration and getting the details right.
About this collection
Most people think a shoot is just about turning up with a camera. The truth is, my work starts days earlier with a sketch on my tablet. Whether I am 3D-printing custom props, painting backdrop textures, or rigging lights with fishing wire, I invest as much energy into the set design as the composition. By the time we arrive for the actual shoot, the vision is already mapped out, leaving no room for guesswork.
Photography is not just hitting a button. For me, it is a full cycle that requires patience and planning.
The Process Behind the Shot
- Concept & Sketches: Every project starts with a conversation. We define the mood, the goal, and the target audience. I put it all down in a mood board so we know exactly where we are heading.
- Set Building: This is where things get creative. Sometimes, the perfect background doesn't exist, so I build it. From laser-cutting shapes to painting surfaces, I handle the physical construction needed to make your product pop.
- Lighting & Rigging: You will often find me hanging objects with fishing wire or setting up boom stands to get that specific angle. My lighting is never generic; I adjust for texture, reflections, and the specific vibe of the brand.
- The Hustle: Being a one-man army means I often handle the role of photographer, assistant, and lightman. If the project is bigger, I bring in my Artbax Studio crew to handle the heavy lifting and makeup, ensuring the shoot runs smooth.
Why Process Matters
When you hire me, you are not just paying for a JPEG file. You are paying for the hours spent on color grading, the sweat behind moving heavy furniture into position, and the 5 AM edits where I fix tiny details that most people will never notice—but I will. Whether we are shooting a product launch in a Delhi studio or a lifestyle campaign on location, the goal is always to deliver an image that does not just look good, but actually performs for your brand.
Manav Chugh
Hi, I’m Manav. I’m a Delhi-NCR based photographer who refuses to just 'press the button' and call it a day. From sketching concepts to rigging lights and retouching every frame, I get involved in every step because that is how you get shots that truly stand out.
Looking for something else?
Explore my other photography work and specializations.
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