My Credo…
When one’s work is equal to one’s judgement, that is a bad sign for one’s judgment; and when one’s work surpasses one’s judgment, that is worse, as happens when a photographer is amazed at having done so well; and when judgment exceeds the work, that is a very good omen and a person so endowed will without doubt produce excellent work. He will compose few works but they will be of the kind to make others stop and contemplate such perfection and admiration. Adapted from the writings of Leonardo da Vinci
About Myself
Gravitating towards photography came naturally. My Dad, Brendan C Pereira, a Creative Director and co-founder of Chaitra Advertising (now Leo Burnett) and a legend in the history of Advertising in India (See TRIBUTES), discovered my talent and nurtured it.
When at college doing my B.Com, I used to work at Ram Prabhu’s studio learning the basics of photography.
In July 1979, I went to London to acquire a Diploma in Professional Photography from the Polytechnic of Central London. During the 5 years in London, I worked at Colorama, one of the largest colour processing laboratories in the UK. Weekends were spent on college assignments.
In 1984, after the course, I went to Chicago, USA for 3 months and worked with Isac Jo, a photographer. He put me in touch with other photographers too, whom I had the good fortune to assist and in particular Joe DeNatale from whom I learnt a lot.
I set up shop in Mumbai, India, in November 1984. Since then I have learned a few things about my strengths and a lot about photography. I found that I had a natural affection for food, jewellery and machines and assiduously cultivated this. I have been fortunate enough to have traveled around the country on various assignments.
From the day I started my career I have steadily built up my own formidable list of clients. It hasn’t been easy but it has been worth the effort. Whatever I have achieved would not have been possible without the tremendous support of Andrea.
It gives me a great sense of satisfaction to hear folks like Jiggs Kalra, one of India’s leading cuisine experts, suggest: “Ian is the best food photographer in the country, today “.
In 1993 I was awarded the A&M, Photographer of the Year Award for my work on the Escorts Corporate campaign.
Who is my biggest competition? Well, I am.