Madh Island, Mumbai, is dotted with bungalows that are often used for shoots. They are called shoot bungalows – as compared to the private or company bungalows that dot the landscape.

We were shooting for a show called Golden Age, hosted by Kitu Gidwani – that goes on Samay Mumbai from next week. The show is aimed at an audience above 50 – and seeks to ’empower’ them through a combination of information, case studies and representation .

(Kitu Gidwani – Golden Age, Samay Mumbai)

More on the show closer to launch date……

Being in Madh, gives you access to the beach – and with that a whole different ecosystem At one end you have shoot crews bustling and shouting out instructions …

And, at the other – across the wall- you have a much quieter mode of life – where conversations seem to be much more muted. and, people seem to have the non verbal communication of those who work hours together and are in perfect synch

A shoot – in addition to talent, equipment and crew – is also props – that give the sorroundings a different kind of ambience

Something like this simply adds a dash of colour to a frame. All those little splashes or little touches that one sees in a frame (or more likely doesn’t see) takes time to achieve.

Often, I run out of patience when propping is being done _ and I usually try one of three things a) spend time with the talent – trying to get the best out of the content. Usually the best way is through conversation on the topic – this allows for an exchange of ideas and usually a better take for camera. b) meditate – staying calm is absolutely necessary on the shoot floor. I personally have issues with loud decibels or rudeness. I push aside those tendencies with just finding a corner and meditating. c) click – another way of relaxing. I tend to shoot in interesting places, and I like documenting those places & people – and there is always enough downtime – unless I am also directing – to click

And, of course, if i am lucky – i truly get a great Arabian Sea sunset ….