George Raphel, a chef turned photographer turned entrepreneur, has taken his passion for photography and transformed it into a thriving career, making a mark for himself in Bahrain and the GCC. Apple Sharma caught up with him for an exclusive interview ahead of his first solo exhibition at Downtown Rotana.

You trained as a chef before you took up photography and founded your creative studio Random Solutions. What led you to make this transition and pursue the art professionally?
Yes, I did go to culinary school but I didn’t pursue a career as a chef for very long. One of my culinary experiences was working at an art café in Kochi [Kerala, India], my hometown – probably one of the first of its kind in the country at the time. But I’ve always been passionate about photography. I started taking pictures in high school and loved the whole process of creating a photographic image, from choosing the right kind of film to developing it in the darkroom and printing it out. I think working with artists who held exhibitions in the café inspired me to take photography seriously. So, I left my job and went to a photography school in Mumbai called Shari Academy to finish my degree in Photography.

You’ve built a successful career over the past decade, with your work being featured in many well-known publications. How has your journey as a photographer evolved since you first started in the industry?
I landed my first job as a photographer in Dubai with a top publication in the GCC. It was tough at first to switch from commercial photography training, where we used the latest equipment for each project. But I quickly learnt to improvise and get the job done with what I had. The best part about editorial photography is that it teaches you to handle all kinds of photography quickly and makes you confident enough to walk into any shoot and meet all kinds of people.

Your portfolio spans a wide range of photographic styles, from editorial and fashion to food and advertising. Which of these genres has been the most rewarding for you, and why?
I don’t have a favourite genre but I love working with all my clients, who are so passionate about their work. They truly appreciate your efforts as a photographer. As for my bias, I must admit that I’m a bit partial to food photography. It’s just so obvious and, given my culinary background, I think I have a good understanding of food science.

Your ongoing exhibition ‘Ana-glyph’ at Downtown Rotana focusses on stereoscopic images. Could you explain this technique and what inspired you to explore this unique form of photography?
Ana-glyph is my first fine art photography exhibition, featuring 20 stunning pieces that I’ve captured across various locations in Bahrain. Anaglyph is a fascinating stereoscopic technique that has been around since the dawn of photography. It involves using a special two-camera rig to capture images and then digitally superimposing them to create a 3D effect. To view these images, you’ll need a pair of 3D glasses [provided at the exhibit]. I believe this is the first time anyone has captured Bahrain the way I have for this series, so come and experience it yourself!

You’ve described the exhibit as a ‘translation’ of your personal connection to Bahrain. What do you hope to convey through these images and what emotions are you hoping to evoke in viewers through this series?
Having lived in this country, which adopted me like its own, for 16 years, I feel this exhibition is an homage to Bahrain. We all know Bahrain is a serene place, and whenever I come back here, I feel myself. This little island country has grown on me like it does on anyone who comes here. Home is where your heart is, and I lost my heart here, I guess. I know so many people can relate to this – I hope the exhibit evokes these same emotions in the viewers.

Which is your favourite Bahrain location that always draws you back for photos, and why?
If you ever find yourself in Muharraq, you’ll be instantly captivated by its rich history, vibrant culture, mouthwatering food and the people. As a photographer, you’ll be spoilt for choice, with countless opportunities to capture stunning moments and create unforgettable memories.

What’s the craziest shoot you’ve done so far, one where you’ve had to go to extreme lengths (climbing things or awkward angles) just to get the shot?
Oh… there are so many! But I guess the best one was spending three nights on an aircraft carrier in the middle of the ocean to shoot a feature for a lifestyle magazine.

What advice would you give someone who’s hoping to take the next step from hobbyist to professional photographer?
After more than two decades as a photographer, to be honest, I still feel like I’m learning every day. But if I can give a piece of advice, it would be – being professional isn’t only about taking great photos – it’s also about showing a positive attitude towards your work and treating your clients with respect. Invest in your craft, stay curious and surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you. And finally, remember that it’s okay not to have all the answers – what matters is being open to learning and evolving along the way. ✤

GO: CALL 3921 2428, EMAIL INFO@GEORGERAPHEL.COM OR VISIT WWW.GEORGERAPHEL.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

What: Ana-glyph Exhibition
When: Ongoing until August 31
Where: Downtown Rotana
Tickets: Free
Ana-glyph is a fine art exhibition by photographer George Raphel, featuring a series of stereoscopic images. His first solo exhibit – a stereoscopic journey into Bahrain’s soul – depicts his personal reflection, a quiet exchange with the island country that adopted him.