By Raghav | | May 21, 2026

How I Shot 10 Stunning Portraits in Chennai This May

On a scorching day in May 2026, I found myself at the sprawling Marina Beach, camera in hand, ready to capture the essence of Chennai through portraits. The humidity was palpable, and I could feel the sweat trickling down my back as I set up for my first shoot. That day, I aimed to create ten stunning portraits, each with its unique story, and it turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences in my eight-plus years of photography.

Finding the Right Locations

Choosing the right location for portrait photography in Chennai is crucial. For this series, I opted for three distinct spots: Marina Beach, the bustling streets of Mylapore, and the serene Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Each location offered a different backdrop, colors, and textures, which allowed me to showcase the diversity of Chennai.

Marina Beach: The Golden Hour

My first subject was a vibrant young woman named Priya, who was excited about her upcoming graduation. We met at Marina Beach at 6:00 AM to take advantage of the soft, golden light. I set up my Nikon D850 with a 50mm f/1.8 lens, which I knew would allow for a beautiful bokeh effect against the backdrop of the ocean.

As the sun began to rise, I positioned Priya just off the waterline, with the waves gently lapping at her feet. I shot at f/2.2, ISO 100, and 1/2000s to freeze the motion of the waves, creating a dynamic image. The result was a portrait that captured the joy of her accomplishment, with sunlight dancing in her hair.

Mylapore: The Heart of Tradition

Next, I headed to Mylapore to meet with Ravi, a traditional musician who wanted portraits that reflected his passion for music. The streets were alive with the sounds of morning rituals, and I couldn’t resist the vibrant colors of the shops and the rich textures of the old buildings. We shot in front of a small temple where the architecture provided a stunning backdrop.

Using my Canon EOS R with a 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, I went for a more candid approach. I shot at f/4.0, ISO 200, and 1/500s, letting Ravi interact with his surroundings as he played his flute. The final images had an organic feel, with the temple’s intricate details framing him perfectly. One shot, in particular, captured him lost in the music, and it remains one of my favorite portraits to date.

Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Serenity and Structure

For my final subject, I met Anjali, a dancer who wanted a portrait that reflected her artistic spirit. We chose the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, where the vibrant colors of the temple’s gopurams (towering gateways) complemented her graceful movements. I knew this location would offer a unique blend of spirituality and artistry.

For this shoot, I switched back to my trusty Nikon D850, this time using a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens to isolate Anjali from the busy backdrop. Shooting at f/2.8, ISO 400, and 1/320s, I captured her mid-dance, the temple’s architecture softening into a beautiful blur behind her. The resulting portraits were striking, showcasing her elegance against the rich cultural tapestry of Chennai.

Editing and Enhancing the Portraits

Once the shoots were complete, it was time to edit the images. I typically use Adobe Lightroom for my post-processing. For Priya’s beach portrait, I enhanced the colors slightly to make the sunrise pop while maintaining the natural feel. I adjusted the exposure to +0.5 and increased the vibrance by 15%, which made the image even more mesmerizing.

Ravi’s portrait required a different approach; I wanted to emphasize the textures of the street. I applied clarity to +20 and used the gradient filter to darken the edges slightly, guiding the viewer’s eyes toward him. The contrast between his vibrant attire and the rustic background was striking.

For Anjali’s dance portrait, I used a soft vignette effect to draw focus. By decreasing the exposure in the corners slightly, I created a frame around her, enhancing the drama of her movement. The final image was both powerful and ethereal, perfectly capturing her spirit.

Mistakes I Made

Throughout my career, I’ve made my fair share of mistakes, and this shoot was no exception. I remember a time early in my career when I underestimated the power of natural light. During a shoot in 2018, I opted for mid-afternoon sun, thinking I could control it with my settings. The results were harsh shadows and overexposed highlights. It was a tough lesson — the light is your best friend, and timing is everything.

For this series, I made sure to schedule the shoots during the early morning or late afternoon, which provided soft, flattering lighting. Additionally, I learned the importance of communicating with my subjects. Ensuring they felt comfortable and relaxed was vital for capturing genuine expressions. In the past, I rushed through poses, leading to stiff, lifeless portraits.

Insider Tips for Portrait Photography in Chennai

1. **Timing is Key**: Avoid shooting during the harsh midday sun. Early mornings or late afternoons are best when the light is soft and golden.

2. **Location Permissions**: Always check if you need permission to shoot in public or religious spaces. For example, at Kapaleeshwarar Temple, I sought permission from the temple authorities, which made the process smooth.

3. **Weather Considerations**: Chennai’s weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden changes; carrying a clear umbrella can provide a unique touch to your portraits if rain strikes.

4. **Cultural Sensitivity**: Be respectful of local customs, especially in religious locations. Understanding the cultural context will enhance your interactions and the authenticity of your portraits.

Conclusion

Capturing portraits in Chennai this May was a rewarding experience filled with vibrant stories and beautiful light. Each of my subjects brought their unique essence, and through the lens, I was able to tell their stories visually. From the serene waves at Marina Beach to the rich cultural tapestry of Mylapore and Kapaleeshwarar Temple, each location added depth to the portraits I created.

As photographers, we have the privilege of freezing moments in time, revealing the beauty in everyday life. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting, remember to embrace the journey, learn from your mistakes, and most importantly, connect with your subjects. Every portrait is a collaboration, and the best ones are made when both the photographer and the subject are at ease.

I’m Raghav, a professional photographer based in Chennai, specializing in wedding, portrait, and travel photography. With over eight years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of capturing the vibrant culture and stories of Tamil Nadu.