Warlock Asylum: Thanks for taking the time to answer a few questions and share your artistic perspective as a photographer with our readers. Can you tell us a little bit about your background?
Ismail Sirdah: I was born in Cape Town, South Africa, as the only child of a successful restaurant owner. During my teenage years, I worked at the family business. After moving to Savannah, Georgia and getting familiar with its arts district, I was fortunate enough to land a side job working as a photographer’s assistant. Not only did I gain exposure, but was able to learn how to develop my skills by simply being attentive at work.
Warlock Asylum: Oh I see. So your interest in photography came from your work in the field?
Ismail Sirdah: Not exactly. I’ve always enjoyed taking pictures. However, my photographic career began to take flight when I began working with other professionals in the field.
Warlock Asylum: How did your business Ismail Sirdah Photography start?
Ismail Sirdah: In 2009, when I started Ismail Sirdah Photography, I decided that it would be more cost effective to invest in a good camera than to hire a photographer every time I needed photos to promote a band. I bought a very expensive camera and took some classes at the Savannah College of Art and Design.
Warlock Asylum: I’m sure that many of our readers are curious as to some of the formulas or things that you do to aid you in meeting your aims as an entrepreneur?
Ismail Sirdah: One of the things I find useful is to incorporate the habit of writing out my three ‘focus items’ for the day. This exercise has really contributed to my success. Relationships are also important. The business relationships that you develop with your clients are the heart of your business. It’s a way of exchanging emotional resources with others that result in financial gains in the physical world.
Warlock Asylum: In recent years, we’ve seen an explosive growth in digital photography. How do you feel about digital photography or do you find using film more rewarding?
Ismail Sirdah: While I spend a lot of time working with film and enjoy doing so, I’ve been working digital into the mix and having a lot of fun with it. I love digital photography!
Warlock Asylum: How do you stay motivated?
Ismail Sirdah: I always look at every new day as a fresh beginning. We can only do what we can do for each day. I do not let the mistakes and failures from the previous day affect my outlook on what is here and now.
It is very important for me to keep my environment filled with positive emotions and professionalism. There are no underhanded methods involved in my business dealings. There are lots of photographers, but few that will behave with integrity.
Warlock Asylum: What advice would you give to someone wishing to turn their dreams into a reality?
Ismail Sirdah: Nothing in life can truly be achieved until you learn to love your own uniqueness. In order for any goal to authenticate itself, it must begin with understanding the nature of our own authenticity and a willingness to accept ourselves as a whole person.
When I first came to the United States I was embarrassed about my accent and to some degree my background. However, when I began to love who I am and the moral standards that my family passed onto me from youth, my drive and focus blossomed. Being at peace with yourself is the most vital part of creation.
Warlock Asylum: That is truly amazing! Thanks once again for your time and the opportunity to discuss a few things. How can potential clients and our readers contact you and stay abreast with your work?
Ismail Sirdah: People can reach me through my website. I am also on Twitter and Instagram. Thanks for the questions and a chance to share my experience with other sincere human beings.
*On behalf of Warlock Asylum International News, I wish you all the best in your artistic and business endeavors.
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