Senthil Murugasan
Senthil Murugasan - East London voices
I always dreamed of being a photographer. After completing high school, I pursued a degree in visual communication, with a specialisation in photography. From there, my passion for photography only grew stronger. I found myself drawn to commercial photography, where I could use my skills to convey a brand's message to its audience.
Life took an unexpected turn when I had the opportunity to pursue a master's degree in photography in the UK. Leaving my family behind was tough at first, but I knew that pursuing my dreams was worth it. Living and studying in the UK was an incredible experience, filled with new friendships and adventures. Studying at the University of East London opened my eyes to new possibilities, pushing me out of my comfort zone and challenging me to think differently about photography.
I'll never forget the lessons I learned from my tutors, especially Julie Cook, who helped me see photography in a whole new light. It wasn't just about technical skills; it was about vision and creativity. I remember Julie giving me a 100-page book and asking me how I felt. I couldn’t figure out where she was going with this. She explained that photography isn’t just about capturing moments but having a vision. Why did the photographer include numbers? Why did they choose to include someone wearing a shirt with ‘200’ on it? What does that convey? Photography isn’t just about capturing images; it’s about storytelling.
With this newfound knowledge, I found myself drawn to projects that went beyond the commercial realm, like my work with visually impaired individuals and marginalised communities.
One of the most meaningful projects I worked on was for the Melinda Gates Foundation, documenting the stories of women who had overcome adversity to create a better life for themselves and their families. Their resilience and strength inspired me to use my photography to make a difference in the world.
Looking ahead, I want to use my skills to empower others, especially those in rural communities who may not have access to formal education. Through teaching and community outreach, I hope to share my passion for photography and help others discover their creative potential.
Senthil Murugasan, MA Photography, UEL alumnus
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