‘When I see an unclothed woman, I do not see nudity; I see the beauty of nature, I see God in every female form.’ ‘Fortunately for me, my family always stood by me. My wife is my biggest supporter. She has always encouraged me to go after my dreams.’ ‘Initially, she was a bit apprehensive that I worked with nude models. But now she understands what my work means to me.’
‘I am happy with the work I do.’
That’s L Ramachandran from Kumbakonam, India’s first Playboy photographer, in conversation with S Saraswathi. I have also worked with Rakul Preet Singh, Srikanth and G V Prakash (popular music composer/actor).
Nayanthara looks really good, but Trisha is my all-time favourite. From Bollywood, it has always been Shah Rukh Khan. I also find Ranveer Kapoor, Katrina Kaif and Freida Pinto very photogenic. I recently came across some images of Kangna Ranaut. In every picture, I could see a subtle difference in her. This is not something all models have.
No appreciation in India
To be frank, my work is not appreciated in our country. Initially, I sent a lot of my photos and ideas to people and magazines in India, but there was no response. If my work was not up to the mark, then I can understand their reaction. But people abroad love my work. It depends on the requirement of the brand. Here there is not much demand for the type of work I do.
People feel you have committed a grave offence. But what really hurts is that even your own friends do not support you. Fortunately for me, my family always stood by me. My wife is my biggest supporter. She has always encouraged me to go after my dreams.
Initially, she was a bit apprehensive that I worked with nude models. But now she understands what my work means to me. When I see an unclothed woman, I do not see nudity; I see the beauty of nature, I see God in every female form. I am happy with the work I do. I am blessed with two lovely children and life is good.
Drawing the line between beauty and vulgarity
It is all in your mind, your way of thinking, your perspective. When I see a nude model, I do not see any vulgarity. And finally it is what I see that is reflected in all my images. I have always portrayed the beauty and wonder of a woman.
Success is vulgar
Slowly, but steadily my work is being recognised. Last year, I was part of the Art Apart Fair in Singapore. It is an international art fair that encourages innovative artistic expression from around the world. My work received a very good response.
I recently worked on a shoot for world peace with different colours and a nude model for a Korean art gallery, which also received much appreciation. Some of my work will soon be featured in Maxim, India
