Afzal Khan’s Lens on Hidden Narratives: Capturing Life in Kathmandu’s Quiet Corners

Photographer Afzal Khan embarked on a visual journey through his hometown of Kathmandu, Nepal, viewing it through his perspective as a refuge from a hectic advertising career. His images weave together the serenity of daily life with the profound stories often overlooked in the hustle and bustle of cityscapes.

Afzal Khan: A Personal Look Through His Perspective on Kathmandu

Growing up in Kathmandu, Afzal found solace in photography, beginning with film and childhood portraits. His nearly 16-year journey through his camera reflects a quest to discover the stories behind old homes and solemn faces of Nepal. “Photography has been close to me since childhood,” he says. What started as a pastime with film rolls has transformed into a significant aspect of his life.

In one of his reflective projects, ‘What’s in your bag?’, he discusses transitioning from a Sony A7R IV to a Hasselblad X1D II, marking a new chapter in his artistic pursuit.

Creative Pathways to Photography

Afzal’s photography began in earnest after carrying a friend’s camera on a trek in 2009. Intrigued, he bought his first camera, a Sony A230, around 2010. During a demanding peak in his advertising career, photography became a much-needed escape, offering peace and perspective. “It became almost like a medicine for me,” he recalls, something he frequently views anew through his viewfinder.

Essentials for Expression

Afzal Khan now chooses the Hasselblad X1D II paired with a Sony Zeiss 55mm lens, among others, to tell his stories. His go-to accessories include the Peak Design Capture Clip and a minimalist Peak Design backpack. His bag also carries personal items like a book or a pen, showing the blend of his artistic and everyday life. Through his unique perspective, these essentials become part of his storytelling process.

The Stories Behind the Lens

Afzal avoids genre restrictions in photography, focusing instead on stories and moments that go unnoticed. “I am usually more attracted to things that people tend to ignore,” he shares. Whether through a person’s face or a forgotten place, Afzal sees himself as a storyteller. His favorite subjects often come from portraits and experimental pieces that allow him to express narratives personally.

Deeper Into Observation

Years of practice deepened Afzal’s ability to observe and understand life through his lens. His growth wasn’t driven by popularity but by a love for capturing life’s nuances. Photography has evolved his observation skills, making him both a better photographer and observer of the world.

Unearthing Stories in Tranquil Corners

Places like Lumbini and Mustang have had profound influences on Afzal’s perspective. In Mustang, rugged landscapes told their own tales, while Lumbini’s spirituality offered a quieter, introspective view of humanity. These experiences reshaped how he sees and captures his subjects, blending their unique narratives into his work.

Learn about another photographer’s richly documented journey in Taiwan’s historic trails, blending nature with storytelling through the lens.

Shooting with Heart, Not Just the Brain

Afzal encourages photographers to engage emotionally with their subjects rather than relying solely on technique. “Shoot with your heart,” he advises. Finding personal light and the right moment makes photography more meaningful. This approach fosters a unique connection between photographer and camera, as Afzal often communicates with his gear to capture the essence of a moment.

Source: dpreview.com

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