After a Bachelor's degree from a reputed college, most young people would hit the hustle and bustle of corporate life. But Ankur Aras, a young budding photographer decided to 'chuck it' and go for his camera. And it was a good decision! Aditi Jain spoke with him about photography, life and future plans.

You have been into photography for a while now. What was your previous area of expertise and how did photography come into your life?
I did B Com from Sydenham. I chucked Chartered Accountancy after working six days in an accountant’s office! (Ha-ha) In my second year, I got a chance to go to Sweden for a youth conference on environment. I met lots of jugglers, musicians, dancers, artists etc making a living from what they like. After I came back I chucked everything I did not like doing. And I was very depressed for about 3 months. I did not know what I wanted to do. I hated Sydenham! When I was in the third year, I was walking on the road and photographing kids arose in me. This happened without any influence. As soon as I finished my exams I bought a camera and started shooting. That’s how photography started for me! 

Are there any particular photographers that you love and are inspired by?
No. I get inspired by art, cycling, walking, swimming, talking to friends, boating, observing, and traveling.

How did you come up with the name ‘fingers and feet’? What is the inspiration behind it?
It’s because of the feet of a 29 days old baby I photographed. The inspiration is difficult to describe.

Other than children, what are other subjects interest you as a photographer?
My friends!

As a photographer, what do you plan to achieve? What are your future plans?
Right now, I want to publish a book from my recent assignments in Aruba, Curacao, St Marten, St Thomas, Jamaica, Mexico, Cayman Islands, Haiti, Belize, Key West, Puerto Rico and Miami. Additionally, I would also like to travel the work photographing children all over. Then there are the commercial aspirations of shooting the biggest advertising campaigns in the world and setting up my own big studio. 

Do you have any advice for young upcoming photographers and your take into where photography is headed?
I have no advice for young photographers. I think only experience teaches a lot.
About photography, many people these days get fascinated by photographs, many photography exhibitions are happening around the world, millions go online and surf for photographs. The viewers for photography are increasing every day.