Travel+Leisure India & South Asia revealed its second set of T+L Champions at India’s Best Awards 2023. From travel content creators and entrepreneurs to hoteliers and interior designers, these 12 individuals are making waves in their fields. One such trailblazer who is redefining travel is the T+L Champion of Travel Photography. Meet Ashik Aseem.

Excerpts from the interview with Ashik Aseem:

T+L India: What inspired you to combine travel photography with the unique gesture of personally delivering postcards to the people you photograph?

Ashik Aseem: It all started when I was travelling to Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh on a motorcycle in September 2019. I am a travel and landscape photographer. So, I keep my camera handy most of the time. In Rangrik Village, I entered a small shop where two ladies were spinning yak wool yarn. Seeking their permission, I took their photo. Their initial smiles faded when they realised they wouldn’t see the picture again.

This encounter made me realise that despite being frequently photographed, the people of Spiti Valley had few pictures of themselves. I observed few old photos kept as treasures in various homes due to the rarity of printing pictures there. Promising to send copies, I collected addresses during my journey. Reflecting on this while riding, I decided to edit, print, and deliver photos to everyone I met. Despite sending weatherproof prints later, winter disrupted communication. Unsure if the photos reached, I returned to Spiti in 2021 with larger prints, anticipating duplicates. The warm reception prompted a decision: I would hand deliver photos instead of relying on unreliable postal services.

T+L India: What impact or reactions have you observed from the recipients when you deliver these personalised postcards?

Ashik Aseem: While exploring remote areas, I carry a tent for overnight stays. In hospitable places like Spiti Valley, connecting with families is easy; they accommodate a solo traveller like me. I prefer local homes to hotels. In 2019, staying in Losar Village, I formed a strong bond with a family.

Later, I discovered the grandmother in the house had passed away. Wanting to help, I decided to bring a framed photo on my next visit, despite the challenge of carrying it from Kerala to remote Himachal. Hand-delivering the photo was emotional; witnessing the grandfather’s tears was touching.

T+L India: How do you find unique locations seen in your photographs?

Ashik Aseem: To take the photos no one else takes, I have to go to places no one else goes to. I usually avoid the usual tourist spots and try to live with the locals for at least a month.

T+L India: What is the best camera for travel photography?

Ashik Aseem: For serious photography, I recommend the Sony Alpha R series, and for videography, consider the S series. If it’s a hobby but you still aim for high-quality results in both photos and videos, opt for the Sony A7iii or IV. I personally find Sony to be the best in terms of both quality and compactness.

Champion’s Choice

Best destination that you have photographed: The Himalayan states and northeast India, particularly Meghalaya
A place you often find yourself returning to: Spiti Valley holds a special place in my heart. Kashmir is another favourite

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