“I grew up in Tamil Nadu in a family where education and a stable career mattered. Like many students, I followed a fairly conventional path. After my 10th, I chose science, went on to study engineering and later moved to the US for my master’s in Computer Science.

From 2002 to 2010, I worked as a software engineer in the US. Life was secure, but I felt something was missing. I noticed how well products and experiences were presented there. It made me think about India. We have such rich culture, heritage and art, but I felt we didn’t always present them in a way that made people appreciate their beauty.

Around the same time, I discovered photography. It began as a hobby, but slowly I became more drawn to it. Every time I picked up my camera, I wondered, ‘Why does this feel so right?’ Then another part of me would ask, ‘Shouldn’t I just focus on my career?’

By 2010, I knew I couldn’t ignore it. I wanted to use photography to showcase India’s culture and heritage. So I quit my job, and returned to India to pursue photography full-time.

I started Studio A, a wedding photography and filmmaking company. We have covered weddings across India and abroad. But I was increasingly drawn to stories and traditions that often don’t get enough attention.

That led me to start Big Short Films, a documentary platform, and Discover Tamil Nadu, a travel channel focused on the state’s cultural richness. I began documenting folk arts, classical dances, traditional crafts and heritage sites.

Today, when I see my work helping artisans, bringing attention to fading art forms or encouraging young people to value our heritage, I feel I made the right choice. Sometimes, you have to listen to that feeling inside you, even when it takes you away from the path you had planned.”

— Amar Ramesh, Engineer turned Photographer