Born in 1997 at Mao Gate, a place renowned for its rich cultural heritage and lush landscapes, Koda Pfoze’s life has been a journey of resilience and determination. Growing up in a family with limited financial resources, Koda’s early years were marked by hardships that shaped his indomitable spirit. Despite the challenges, his parents’ unwavering dedication and hard work laid a strong foundation for his upbringing. Their sacrifices instilled in him the values of perseverance and gratitude, which continue to guide him today.
Koda’s love affair with photography began in earnest in 2016, when he enrolled in a course at Fotocult in New Delhi. This experience was transformative, providing him with a solid grounding in both the technical and creative aspects of the craft. “The immersive learning environment and hands-on training at Fotocult ignited my passion for capturing moments and telling stories through images,” Koda recalls. His uncle, a talented photographer, had always been an inspiration, and this formal training turned a burgeoning interest into a dedicated pursuit.
Koda’s photographic style is a beautiful blend of capturing the raw, natural beauty of landscapes and the intimate, emotional moments of weddings. “I strive to create images that convey a sense of serenity and awe in my nature landscapes, focusing on the interplay of light, color, and composition. For weddings, I aim to capture the genuine emotions and unique stories of each couple,” he explains. This dual focus allows him to explore both the vastness of the natural world and the intimate connections between people.
In wedding photography, Koda’s creative process is meticulous and personalized. He begins by getting to know the couple, understanding their vision for their special day. “On the wedding day, I pay close attention to details like the gown, suits, rings, decor, and other unique elements,” he says. After the event, he carefully selects and edits the best photos to highlight the day’s
emotions and beauty, ensuring a timeless collection of images that couples will cherish forever.
One of the highlights of Koda’s career has been the successful documentation of numerous weddings, each with its unique story. Delivering beautiful photo books to couples and receiving their heartfelt appreciation is incredibly rewarding. The positive feedback and testimonials from clients motivate him to continuously improve and innovate in his craft.
However, Koda’s path has not been without challenges. Gaining the trust of clients was initially difficult due to his limited portfolio. To overcome this, he focused on honing his skills and building a strong portfolio through smaller projects and collaborations. Keeping up with the latest technology and trends was another challenge, which he addressed by investing time in online tutorials and engaging with photography communities.
Staying motivated and growing as an artist is crucial for Koda. He draws inspiration from various sources, including the work of other photographers, nature, and everyday moments. “Constantly exploring new techniques and styles helps keep my creativity fresh,” he notes. Setting personal goals, collaborating with other photographers, and seeking feedback from clients and peers are strategies he employs to maintain his enthusiasm and commitment to his craft.
Koda’s favorite pieces of equipment are his 35mm f/1.4 and 85mm f/1.4 lenses paired with the Canon R6 body. “The 35mm lens is perfect for capturing wide shots and environmental portraits, especially in low light. The 85mm lens excels at creating stunning portraits with beautiful bokeh,” he shares. This combination allows him to capture sharp, detailed images in any lighting condition, enhancing his creative process.
For young photographers, Koda emphasizes the importance of wise investments and continuous learning. “Avoid wasting money on the wrong
camera body and lenses. Invest wisely in gear that truly meets your needs,” he advises. Starting with essential equipment and gradually acquiring more advanced gear as skills develop is crucial. He also highlights the importance of practice, studying light, and consistently shooting to improve.
Reflecting on his journey, Koda remains dedicated to capturing genuine emotions and connections through his photographs. Whether it’s the joy of a wedding day or the serenity of a landscape, he aims to evoke a sense of wonder and meaning in every image. His passion for photography and his commitment to his craft continue to drive him forward, ensuring that his work remains heartfelt and impactful.
“Through my photographs, I aim to convey genuine emotions and connections, capturing the joy, love, and beauty of each moment. My goal is to create images that resonate emotionally with viewers, sparking memories, feelings, and a deeper connection to the subject matter,” Koda shares.
We at Our Times by Kabi Tingchoi, are honored to share Koda Pfoze’s incredible journey with our readers. His dedication to his craft and his ability to capture the profound beauty in both nature and human connections are truly remarkable. We are thrilled to feature such a talented and passionate individual. The journey of a young photographer, from Mao Gate to capturing life’s most beautiful moments serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists everywhere. Koda Pfoze’s story is a reminder that with passion, perseverance, and dedication, one can transform challenges into opportunities and create art that touches hearts.
One of the best photography
💯💝📸