The world had come to a halt. Streets emptied, skies cleared, and an unusual silence wrapped around the days. It was the time of the pandemic lockdown, a moment when life slowed down, forcing people to look inward. For me, it was the beginning of a new journey—one that would change my perspective forever.
I am Rithved Girish, a 13-year-old boy who pursues his passion for modelling and photography. My dad has always been a keen supporter of both me and my mom. He constantly encourages me to follow my passion and gives me all the support he can.
I started my photography journey at the age of eight during the lockdown. My mother inspired me to take pictures, encouraging me to see the world through a lens. During that time, my school held an online photography competition, and I submitted one of my photographs.
To my surprise, I won! Initially, my teacher thought I had taken the picture from the internet, but I proved it was mine by showing the original file. That moment gave me confidence in my abilities.
Though I didn’t fully immerse myself in photography due to my studies, I would still pick up the camera whenever I felt like capturing a moment. My mother and I would go out together, and I would take a few shots, cherishing the process of learning from her.
My journey took a major turn when my parents and I went on a bird photography trip to Oman. My mother handed me her second camera, sat with me, and patiently taught me how to compose and capture the perfect shot. I took only a few photographs that felt right to me. Little did I know that one of those images would later win second place in the Xposure International Photography Awards.
It was my mother who submitted the picture to Xposure’s Junior Category, and when I won, I was overwhelmed with joy. That moment changed my perspective on photography forever.
Recently, I was honoured again with first place in the same Xposure Awards. This time, my winning image was taken in Kerala, India. I had spotted an interesting subject on a wall and instinctively captured it. That photograph turned out to be a defining moment in my journey.
Winning these awards has motivated me to pursue photography with even greater passion. Thank you, Xposure, for the encouragement and inspiration. Through every shot I take, I am reminded of my mother’s guidance and the power of seeing the world through a lens.
