Simran Kanda - Photographer and Fashion Stylist

"I want each of my projects to have meaning... to tell a story!" - Simran Kanda

@https://www.instagram.com/simmykanda/

When we think of great photographers, we think of Karl Lagerfeld, Mario Testino, Patrick Demarchelier. And soon we will think of Simran Kanda. This young, fresh talent is working hard to bring a completely new look on photography, and Magnum Opus (M.O) was lucky to grab a few words from the already successful photographer and fashion stylist.

With a background in Arts, Drama and Media, Simran knew that when it came to choosing her degree for University, she wanted to do something different. Moving away from the stereotypes that all Asians must be academic, falling into the next generation of doctors and lawyers, Simran decided to pursue her natural passion and began studying Fashion Photography at University.

Although it is clear to see the passion and talent for photography and fashion is second nature to Simran, her love and inspiration for the craft stems from the admiration of individuals across the creative industry. One of Simran's biggest inspirations comes in the form of actor, musician, fashion model, designer and icon - Jaden Smith.

https://www.instagram.com/simmykanda/

"I'm inspired by people who make a difference and want to change the world. Jaden is one of my main role models as he is always breaking the rules. He modelled for Louis Vuitton Womens Campaign! Thats mad!" Simran explained, that her inspiration from Smith comes from his lack of care about the stereotypical norms. Another role model for Simran is a name many of us are familiar with - Alexander McQueen. McQueen, known for shaping contemporary fashion has made a big impact on Simran and her photography who also styles all of her own shoots.

"He was such an inspirational designer and back in the day, shocked everyone with his creations. He stated that 'I think there is beauty in everything. What normal people would perceive as ugly, I can usually see something of beauty in it.' This quote has stuck with me for a long time and I truly believe that everyone is beautiful."

This message can be seen throughout Simran's work. Her choice to work with a range of different models who, break boundaries and exceed the expectation of the standard of beauty, is testament to McQueens message.

https://www.instagram.com/simmykanda/

As well as fashion icons, Simran's inspiration flows from other parts of the creative world, such as music.

"Aaliyah and Tupac are music legends."

"I feel like music nowadays only talks about money, cars, hoes, all this shit. But if you listen to some old school music and what these artists say in their songs...they had stories to tell and they used music as an art form to connect to the world!"

It is clear to see that Simran draws in on all her inspirations and role models when producing her own amazing content. Keen to capture a story and message, Simran's photography breaks the mould, capturing the beauty of individuals and filling each image with its own meaning.

As well as wanting to know where Simran draws her inspirations, M.O were keen to find out who in the industry Simran is currently loving and who she would like to shoutout.

"@iamsapra, Nilik Khimani (@nilikkhimani), @karanjee, @parmjeetkd, @rohansinghkalsi, @hark1karan and @rahemurrahman. They are all individually killing the fashion scene!"

To end out chat, M.O wanted to know what Simran has going on now.

"Right now... planning some shoots and collaborating with some amazing artists and models so content is coming soon! I don't like to rush my content as I want each of my projects to have meaning to it... to tell a story!"

M.O is loving Simran Kanda. Her work is thought provoking, rule breaking and nothing short of utterly mind blowing. We are honoured that she was our first content creator to be featured here on Magnum Opus. Having already shot at London Fashion Week, and having so much of her work published, Simran is also working with clothing brand Valienté and here at Magnum Opus, we can't wait to see the rest of her extraordinary journey.

A final word from Simran?

"Let people know that Simmy Kanda is going to make a change! I'm all about positive vibes and always up to collaborate with anyone in the industry! I'm here for the Indian, Desi Kuris who I know some of are still doing something they don't like. I'm here to show them they can be whoever the fuck you wanna be. Just love yourself and be yourself."

https://www.instagram.com/simmykanda/

Links to all persons mentioned above.

https://www.instagram.com/simmykanda/

https://www.instagram.com/iamsapra/

https://www.instagram.com/nilikkhimani/

https://www.instagram.com/karanjee/

https://www.instagram.com/parmjeetkd/

https://www.instagram.com/rohansinghkalsi/

https://www.instagram.com/hark1karan/

https://www.instagram.com/rahemurrahman/

https://www.instagram.com/wearevaliente/