Md. Arifuzzaman

Greetings, I’m Arif, a seasoned explorer of 48 years. From the moment my eyes first met the silver screen, I’ve been an ardent devotee of the cinematic arts. My upbringing was a symphony of movies and a treasure trove of books, each leaving an indelible mark on my soul.

The allure of stories, both whispered and bound in pages, beckoned me from every corner. I immersed myself in the classics of world literature, the heart-pounding thrillers, and the exhilarating tales of adventure. At one point, I dreamt of becoming a wordsmith, yet destiny had a different script in mind, casting me as a visual storyteller.

The world, a masterpiece in its own right, tugged at my heartstrings, urging me to capture its breathtaking beauty. Beyond my window, a vibrant tapestry unfolded, rich with diverse cultures, lifestyle of people, faiths, and the captivating rituals of indigenous communities. Each scene was an enchanting brushstroke in the canvas of existence, forever etching its mark on my soul.

My academic journey led me through the hallowed halls of Dhaka University and Southeast University, where I immersed myself in the realm of international relations Hons and Masters and earned an MBA. For over 17 years, I traversed the corporate landscape, donning various roles in esteemed organizations such as Maxwell Stamp, Banglalink, and Contic. Yet, amidst the corporate hustle, a flicker of passion for photography burned brightly within me.

In 2012, a momentous trip to Malaysia saw me acquire my first Canon point-and-shoot camera. Its lens opened a portal to boundless joy and exhilaration. In 2014, serendipity bestowed upon me a small camera, a gift from my sister-in-law, and with that, my photographic journey truly took flight.

Seeking to master the art of photography, I embarked on a transformative quest, enrolling in courses at the renowned First Light Institute under the expert guidance of GMB Akash. His name resonates not only within Bangladesh but also across the world, a luminary in the realm of photography. Under his mentorship, I uncovered the profound depths of this captivating art form.

My lens, a key to the world’s soul, guided me to embrace festivals, street photography, the rich tapestry of everyday life, the thrill of travel, and the grandeur of architecture. As a photographer, I’ve learned to savor life’s tiniest joys and unearth the hidden beauty in every corner. When I capture an image, I’m not just documenting a moment; I’m losing myself in its essence, surrendering to the art of freezing time, and momentarily escaping the world’s tribulations. Photography, for me, is a sanctuary where my spirit soars, and all pain is forgotten.