Today we’d like to introduce you to Pratik Naik.
Pratik, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started in this industry professionally a decade ago with my start as a photo retoucher. Almost simultaneously, I also did photography as a hobby and the two often go hand in hand. Through the years, I’ve taught on all but one continent (the one without people in it), and have been so fortunate to meet so many creatives in the field. Taking portraits, teaching, and retouching for others has been the story of the last ten years.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The struggles of being a freelance creative, especially as a retoucher or photographer, is one of communication. Being that there’s no barrier to entry, anyone can do this, so there’s no qualifications that set you apart from the next person. Being able to communicate but also understand the person you are working for is a huge struggle sometimes, as not everyone is good at communicating what they want.
Shot by Pratik – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I am a photographer and retoucher and specialize in fashion, beauty, glamour and boudoir work. I am most proud of my online community on social media, education platform www.theretouchingseries.com and the tools I’ve helped develop for creatives such at www.infinitecolorpanel.com. I am most proud of the ability to sustain myself as a creative for so long and I am forever grateful for the support of the industry for it.
I feel I set myself apart from others in that I am well rounded in being responsible, reliable, determined, and authentic in who I am and what I do. It should be par for the course but you’ll find that many people who are working in the creative field may not possess the base qualities needed.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
For me, success is being able to be happy. We try to put lofty goals to success but if success is as simple as being happy, anything becomes an opportunity for success.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.solsticeretouch.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/solsticeretouch – Retouching
www.instagram.com/shotbypratik – Photography
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