As the world prepares to celebrate World Photography Day on Wednesday, 19 August, Chatsworth photographer Dineshran Rodney Nayager is reminded of why he first picked up a camera — to capture the moments that matter and preserve them long after they have passed.
The 45-year-old Moorton resident, who was born and raised in Chatsworth, discovered his passion for photography in 2011 after the birth of his son.
“I wanted to capture every milestone and every precious moment of his life. Through those experiences, I realised photography wasn’t just about taking pictures—it was about preserving memories that would last forever,” he said.
Although Nayager works as a Client Relations Officer in the pathology industry, he said that photography has become an important creative outlet alongside his career and family life.
“My career has taught me the importance of communication, building relationships and making people feel comfortable. Those same skills are invaluable in photography because people are always more relaxed and natural when they trust the person behind the camera,” he said.
He describes his photography style as “natural, emotional and timeless”, with a particular love for photographing families, children, couples and special occasions.
For Nayager, the technical aspects of photography are important, but it is the emotion behind an image that makes it memorable.
“A picture records what you see, but a photograph tells a story. It’s about understanding lighting, composition, timing and emotion. A great photograph makes people feel something long after it was taken,” he said.
He believes professional photography still has an important place in a world where almost everyone carries a camera in their pocket.
“Professional photography isn’t just about owning expensive equipment. It’s about experience, creativity and knowing how to capture meaningful moments in the best possible way. Those are memories that families will treasure for generations,” he said.
The emotional impact of photography is something Nayager has witnessed first-hand, particularly when families see candid moments they did not realise had been captured.
“I’ve photographed families who became emotional seeing moments they didn’t even realise had been captured. Those genuine reactions remind me why I love what I do,” he said.
Photography has also taught him to slow down and appreciate the present.
“It has shown me that the best moments are often unplanned and that every person has a unique story worth capturing,” he said.
For Nayager, Chatsworth remains an important part of that story.
“Chatsworth has a strong sense of family, culture and community. I enjoy capturing the warmth, traditions and genuine spirit of its people because every family has a story that’s worth remembering,” he said.
And on World Photography Day, his message is simple: “Photography isn’t about having the best camera—it’s about seeing the beauty in everyday moments. Every photograph tells a story, and every story deserves to be remembered.”
