Harnoor Juneja is a photographer whose work seamlessly blends the raw authenticity of street photography with the curated elegance of fashion. Rooted in a profound connection to his surroundings, Juneja's approach is marked by an instinctive and observational style. His photography doesn’t adhere to a strict creative formula but rather evolves from a spontaneous interaction with the world around him. His recent participation in Gallery XXL's recent exhibition The Desired Scaffold highlights his growing presence in the art world.
In a candid discussion with the photographer, we dive into his creative world and his perspectives on the photography landscape of India.
The Essence of Harnoor Juneja's Photography
Harnoor Juneja’s photography is deeply rooted in his surroundings and daily observations. "It’s about everything around me," he explains. "If I had to sum it up, it’s really about going out and figuring things out as I shoot." Juneja’s primary inspiration comes from the street—his keen observations of people and their environments form the backbone of his work. He sees photography as an extension of his daily experiences, capturing moments as they unfold in real life.
Creative Process
Juneja’s approach to photography is notably instinctive. He describes his creative process as lacking a rigid structure. "I don’t follow a set map or mindset when I take photographs," he says. His method involves shooting first and contemplating later, particularly during the editing phase. This approach allows him to focus on observation and instinct, refining his images through cropping and perspective adjustments to align with his vision. Juneja is hesitant to attach specific words or explanations to his work. He believes that photographs should speak for themselves and evoke personal interpretations from viewers. "I’d rather people experience the photograph themselves," he asserts, emphasizing that personal connections to art are more profound than any explanation he might provide.
Harnoor Juneja (left)
Fashion Photography: A Personal Touch
When discussing his work in fashion photography, Juneja notes that while he has not done a vast amount, his approach remains deeply personal. He prefers infusing his projects with a unique touch, integrating elements from his street photography observations into his fashion shoots. Juneja often opts for outdoor settings to maintain control and align with his instinctive style. "I try to balance mood boards and processes with what I see at that moment," he explains, illustrating his blend of structured and spontaneous elements in his work.
The Photography Scene in India
Juneja reflects on the state of the photography industry in India, noting a general sense of underappreciation for the medium as an art form. While fashion photography enjoys some recognition, other areas of photography often lack the same level of respect and commercial value. "People still prefer more traditional forms of art like painting or sculpture," he observes. Despite this, he acknowledges a growing interest in South Asian culture and perspectives, influenced by global viewpoints.
Future Directions
Looking ahead, Juneja expresses a desire to continue integrating street photography into his fashion work. He finds inspiration in everyday street styles, often feeling that they offer a more authentic representation of fashion than what is seen in high-fashion circles or on social media. "I try to see things for myself rather than through the lens of internet trends," he says. His future plans involve continuing to explore and capture these real-world styles, balancing them with his personal artistic vision.
The Desired Scaffold
Juneja recently participated in the The Desired Scaffold exhibition at XXL, which was a significant milestone for him. He admits that while he initially felt unprepared for an exhibition, the experience was rewarding. "The process was smooth, and I was happy to contribute," he recounts. The exhibition aimed to blend various visual mediums, including photography and video, and Juneja's involvement added a valuable dimension to the show.
Words Paridhi Badgotri
Date 02.09.2024
