Shrey Bhagat on the Art of Storytelling Through Wedding Photography

by  Komal Darji Weddings | September 26, 2024 | Interview

Shrey Bhagat Raabta by Shrey Bhagat

Shrey Bhagat is an award-winning wedding and lifestyle photographer whose passion for storytelling shines through in every frame he captures. He believes that a wedding is more than just a union of two people; it's a celebration of two families coming together, each with their own unique stories and cultures. With ten years of experience, including co-founding Knotting Bells, Shrey has made a name for himself in the industry by capturing the little moments that make each wedding special.

Driven by a desire to connect with couples on a deeper level, Shrey launched Raabta By Shrey Bhagat, a venture dedicated to celebrating the intimate bonds between partners. He approaches photography with a personal touch, aiming to document not only the big moments but also the emotions and details that tell each couple's unique love story. Having traveled to over 25 countries for more than 350 weddings, Shrey has worked with everyone from everyday couples to celebrities, and his attention to detail and authenticity consistently sets his work apart. 

In an exclusive interview with EVENTFAQS Media, Shrey Bhagat, Founder & Creative Director of Raabta by Shrey Bhagat, discusses his ten-year journey in wedding photography, highlighting the influences that shaped his entrepreneurial path. He reflects on his recent recognition in the 35 Under 35 list and shares insights into the key factors contributing to his success. Shrey also outlines his ultimate goals for the wedding industry and the strategies he plans to implement to achieve them. Additionally, he shares valuable lessons learned throughout his career and offers advice to aspiring professionals looking to thrive in the industry.

This year marks your 10th year in the wedding photography industry. Who or what has been the biggest influence on your entrepreneurial journey?

My biggest source of inspiration has been my wife. Ten years ago when I was on the cusp of kickstarting my entrepreneurial journey she was there as my support system and when we took a leap of faith with Raabta, she was the one who gave me the most confidence. She is the constant that has kept me going forward in this journey.

Being recognized in the 35 Under 35 is a major accomplishment. What do you think has contributed most to your success?

Sincerity, patience, dedication, and gratitude are the four values I’ve been following and living by. This has led me to where I am today. There’s a saying in Punjabi ‘Sabr Shukr Simran,’ which means patience, gratitude, and prayer. This is what I live by, believe in, and follow.

What is your ultimate goal for the wedding industry, and how do you plan to achieve it?

The ultimate goal for the wedding industry is to transform it into a more organized and professional market. While the effort and hard work behind organizing a wedding are slowly gaining recognition, it is still often seen as something that can be managed by a relative or family member. By bringing greater awareness to the complexity of planning and executing successful weddings, the aim is to make this an organized and professional market.

What has been your biggest learning experience as a young professional in this industry?

The biggest learning experience as a young professional in the wedding industry has been the importance of teamwork and spontaneity. A wedding operates like a well-oiled machine, where every element must work seamlessly together for success. Being a team player is essential. Additionally, spontaneity is crucial, as there are no second chances in capturing the right moments. Weddings often bring unexpected challenges, new locations, unfamiliar environments, and unplanned circumstances. So the ability to adapt quickly and think on your feet is key. Flexibility, quick problem-solving, and collaboration are the most valuable skills learned along the way.

What advice would you give to other young professionals aspiring to be successful in the wedding industry?

My advice to aspiring young professionals in the wedding industry is to stay true to your art and never take shortcuts. Always work with a smile, but remember, this industry, while glamorous from the outside, is incredibly demanding. It requires not just creativity but also physical and mental stamina. There will be sleepless nights and long days, sometimes standing for 20 hours straight. To thrive, you need to maintain your strength, stamina, and creativity, and be prepared for the hard work that comes with the rewards.