Kushagra is an Indian-born visual artist based in London, depicting his art through photography and film. He is a commercial and fashion photographer with a portfolio spanning major brands in India and the UK. His work seamlessly blends narrative-driven photography and cinematic aesthetics, evident in his debut short film "Vanity," where he served as the Director of Photography and Co-Producer.
Kushagra has a Postgraduate Degree in Photography and a Master's in Filmmaking from London College of Communication. Alongside his Consultant role in decolonizing the curriculum at LCC, Kushagra is a Visiting Practitioner for the BA Commercial Photography program at LCC.
Inspired by one of the most dull times in recent history, Kushagra is working on a coffee-table book during his travels between the UK and India in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Also venturing into directing with "The Last Supper," Kushagra aims to subtly explore themes of technology's prevalence and complex human relationships. Passionate about activism and storytelling through art, he seeks to engage audiences with thought-provoking narratives.
Projects
- VanityLeah Baker, a manipulative journalist, preys on vulnerable individuals. She targets Andrea, fresh from a breakup, and love-bombs her into a passionate romance. Leah then shifts to silent treatment and eventually abandons Andrea, moving on to her next victim, showcasing the destructive cycle of narcissistic relationships.
Work history
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Photographer and FilmmakerWhen Chai Met Toast
- London, United KingdomFreelance
Official photographer and filmmaker for the London live performance of acclaimed Indian band's UK tour - When Chai Met Toast
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DoPArshaq Malik
- Huntingdon, United KingdomFreelance
Cinematographer for emerging musician - Arshaq Malik for song - Tamils on the Roof - for upcoming album.
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Education
MastersLondon College of Communication, UAL
- London, United Kingdom
Masters in Filmmaking
Successfully contributed to 18 diverse filmmaking projects throughout duration of the course, showcasing competence in various roles with a specialisation in production and cinematography.
Currently pursuing certifications, including BAFTA Albert, Arri Camera Systems, and officially certified Steadicam operator and Adobe Certified Premiere Pro Professional.
For the major project, co-produced and served as cinematographer for the graduation film "Vanity," addressing narcissistic abuse in a queer relationship. Efficiently planned a 4-day shoot, coordinating successful crowdfunding efforts, and actively engaging in project marketing, resulted in over £2000 in contributions. I found creative solutions to bring the director's vision, thought and emotions on screen to effectively tell a story. Advised on the final cut, and fine-tuned the film's color to match the desired emotion.
Vanity is now the LGBTQ+ Category Winner at Enjoy Film Festival and New World Film Festival, Honorable Mention of Budapest Film Awards and London Director Awards 2024 and official selection at many more.
Postgraduate DiplomaLondon College of Communication, UAL
- London, United Kingdom
Worked towards a visual identity as an artist through study and projects in commercial and documentary photography, as well as moving image, while learning historic and contemporary processes. Some of the projects include:
• Investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the people of India, as the second wave engulfed the country. Work in Progress - to be curated in form of a photobook.
• Collaborations with artists from diverse disciplines and working styles to shoot pictures in digital and analog mediums.
• Examined the influence of narrative in postwar 20th-century fashion photography, and compiled the research and inferences in form of an essay.
• Time Out (Graduation Project): A cinema influenced project exploring mental health and xenophobia, with the story progressing in form of a photo series.