T-Diaries: Muzi Sufi

A glimpse into the world of Pakistani powerhouses

What sparked your interest in photography?

I was bored when I first moved to Lahore and needed an outlet. This just happened to revolve around photographing expressions and eventually, I realised I wanted to do this professionally.

How do you bring your inspiration into reality?

I take note of people and places that leave a mark on me — a specific roadside perhaps or a fallen tree. I’ll keep certain faces in mind so that when it comes to a shoot, I have a bunch of pieces that I have to put together to create a certain vision.

What type of photography do you do most? What do you enjoy about it and why?

I love photographing my own portfolio work the most. I have absolute creative control and am not restricted by having to show the outfit in a specific way. It is purely about me, my model and the story we paint. I guess that’s why I love it so much. But commercially, I happen to do fashion photography the most though.

What is the most challenging part about being a photographer for you?

Having to come up with something amazing enough on short notices, especially in a place like Karachi, can be rather troublesome at times. I love the outdoors but it’s difficult to use what we have due to security and legal concerns. I feel bad for photographers here; it’s so hard to get permissions and stay safe and do something mind blowing all at the same time.

How has the Pakistani photography industry changed over the past years?

Honestly, I haven’t been following the industry long enough to say anything but I think it’s great that young photographers are able to pave a way for themselves in the industry now. There is more room for them to experiment and introduce different ideas and concepts.

Describe your photographic style? How did this style come about?

I love everything natural and avoid anything landscaped. Dilapidated buildings and unkempt gardens are frequent backdrops for my shoots. I love the rawness associated with such settings as it makes everything look so effortless. Being a girl, I’ve always thought my expression translates best through another female. Girls are so beautiful and feminine and most of my style revolves around painting them in that light. Even if the concept is sad, it will be beautifully sad.

Whose work has influenced you the most?

I have many favourites but I absolutely love Lara Jade.

What is your best photography tip?

Take out time for your own art. Don’t let your creative vision die out when things start going too commercial.

What makes a good picture?

A story is very important! I’m no expert but I think a picture that lacks some sort of emotional depth gets lost quickly.

Do you think the photography industry in Pakistan needs improvement?

Yes, but I also think that if we weren’t set back due to all the location issues and permissions, we’d have a fabulous industry. Some of our photographers are so talented that it’s unfortunate we’ve been thrown this hurdle.

Any advice to young women aspiring to become photographers?

Everyone should pick a style and stand out. You won’t ever get noticed if your work looks like everyone else’s!

Muzi Sufi 

Photographer

Published in The Express Tribune, Ms T, February 1^st, 2015.