MPB Meets: Street & Documentary Photographer Anojan Satha

The work of urban planner and street/documentary photographer Anojan Satha uses simple compositions, employing great use of light in often inhospitable weather, to create a unique sense of atmosphere. We speak to Anojan about themes within his work, how he changes his photography equipment and how photographers interpret the everyday. Over to you, Anojan.

MPB: Can you tell us about your background and how you came to start taking photographs?

AS: I’m an urban planner and photographer based in Scarborough, Canada. I’ve been taking photographs for the last ten years, starting with film and moving on to digital. When I was younger, I used to make short films, but later found my passion for still image photography instead, while holding influences of cinema in my work.

MPB: Much of your work is atmospheric, with the weather playing a big part. What is your process for creating your images?

AS: Weather plays a key role in my work. Here, in Canada, we get all four seasons. Whenever I find a scene, I’ll make sure the light is perfect and the weather is right. Sometimes, I will need to revisit a scene multiple times just to get the perfect weather. Fog, snow, rain, summer sun. On rare occasions, I’ll find a location at the right place and time. However, most often I find myself having to revisit a place, making note of the location.

MPB: There is a quiet solitude to your work. Do you enjoy the experience of being alone in these places as much as the images themselves?

AS: I work best alone. Photography lets me decompress after a long day of work, especially in busy downtown Toronto. Commuting back to the suburbs provides me with the peace and quiet I seek during the day. Working alone allows me to collect my thoughts without any distractions.

MPB: A reimagining of the mundane can turn a pedestrian scene into something unique. Why do you think photographers are drawn to these moments?

AS: I believe photographers love the mundane because it’s often scenes that people overlook. We live in a time where it’s very easy to share images, usually, scenes that are most accessible to the public, places that have been overworked. The search for the mundane presents a challenge that a lot of photographers seek. Making the mundane beautiful is difficult, but rewarding. It also connects with a lot of people as they’re ‘everyday scenes’.

MPB: How important is your equipment to you? Do you change gear frequently or have you settled on something you’re happy with?

AS: Once I find a camera, I tend to stick with it. I used an old Canon EOS Rebel T2i for a long time until it was completely broken. I switched to a Fujifilm X-Pro 2 and still use the same camera and two lenses. I appreciate camera gear and technical advancements, as the nerd in me loves to see them. However, I know owning the latest or best gear doesn’t make you a better photographer. Investing in photobooks and other art books is a lot more valuable.

MPB: What equipment is always in your kitbag?

AS: In my bag, I have a Fujifilm X-Pro 2, 23mm f/2 R WR and 35mm f/1.4 R. I also carry a Polaroid SLR680 or my modified Mamiya-Instax Wide 300.

MPB: How did you adapt to a changing set of circumstances in 2020?

AS: 2020 allowed me to pause and evaluate the work I had made over the last several years. It allowed me to reflect on things I want to make, what I can do better, and explore new project ideas. Prior to the pandemic, I focused a lot on making work, but never had the time to sit down and review it collectively.

MPB: What would you like to achieve in the future?

AS: My goals for the future include publishing a photobook. My partner @luxvna is helping me with the design and layout. I’d also love to have my work in a local exhibit for viewing. Beyond photography, I’ve been exploring other mediums like Blender 3D, using my photography as a reference/tool and mixing both.

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This article is part of the MPB Guide to Street Photography, our comprehensive look at how to create street photography, with camera recommendations, advice and interviews with experts.