Meet Krishan Patel | Photographer and Videographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Krishan Patel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Krishan, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk brings us the greatest joys in life. I have always believed that if you want something bad enough you will get it. For me I was afraid of taking a risk because of the uncertainty of failure, but then I realized I was never moving forward. I have battled ulcerative colitis for most of my life. I recently saw a functional nutritionist to help hone my diet so I could overcome the daily struggles of living with this chronic condition. My overall health and well being has much improved. Living with a chronic condition has given me the gratitude to live life. It is such a gift to get up in the morning, spend time with family and friends, read a book at the coffee shop, have the ability to travel, etc…The way I see it, if I fail I fail, but I still have my health. So risk is a part of life, but not the end of life. I look forward to what challenges come my way therefore, I try my best to turn my dreams into reality. I don’t believe in inaction, and just talk about ideas. I understand that finances can come into play with some ideas, but that should not be a hindrance. It’s not about the macro changes, it is about the micro steps we take that lead to the macro changes. I immigrated from Lusaka, Zambia in Africa in the 90s’. My family and I came with the mindset that in America you can be whatever and whoever you want, the only person that will hold you back is yourself. This mindset has propelled me to strive for the life I want that brings me peace. Don’t get me wrong, happiness is also important but like sadness and pain it comes in cycles, peace is everlasting. The shift for me from a happiness mindset to peace has brought me comfort to take risks because I know I will learn and come out wiser whether I succeed or not.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

My graduate studies was in landscape architecture so utilizing aerial photography and videography I am able to capture the spirit of a place. I enjoy capturing creative moments from an aerial perspective. As a drone operator I am learning how a bird’s eye view gives me appreciation for the place rather than just the subject you are trying to capture. What I enjoy the most about the visual arts is how the textures, colors, and lighting can affect the mood of a scene. Its ability to affect emotions and open one’s eyes to the same, but different world. Incorporating bold vibrant colors in my photography and videography is how I express my zest for life.

A lot of time and effort has gone into my work. The main thing is it all started out as a hobby which has developed into a business. It doesn’t feel like work and more like play. Social media has made it easier for creatives to showcase their art and display their skills. I learned not to give up because there is an audience who enjoys and appreciates my work. My health and fighting imposter syndrome has been the biggest challenge. Overall physical and mental health is vital for a creative or any entrepreneur. Always knowing when to stop and take a break, and enjoying the present has helped center and re-energize me. The lessons I have learned are planning and organization are vital. Planning drone photography or videography involves many factors. You have to account for the weather, time of day, and how populated an area is.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The Fort Worth Botanic Gardens would be my first stop. The gardens contain native and adapted plants. The garden is a great place to have a walk and see what’s in bloom. Next I would take them to Sundance Square in Downtown Fort Worth. It’s a huge plaza that’s a very chill spot to grab a bite or have some coffee and people watch. After that I would bring them to Downtown Dallas to Trinity Groves. Trinity Groves is next to the iconic Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge. You have an awesome view of Downtown Dallas from the pedestrian bridge. When the weather is good they have salsa dance lessons on the pedestrian bridge. The Dallas skyline from Reunion tower gives you a 360 view of Dallas. The nightlife on the rooftop bars are spectacular. Some of the most notable are Happiest Hour, the Waterproof at the Statler Hotel, and the Soda Bar at the Nylo Hotel. One of my favorite spots to go for a run is White Rock Lake Park. The trails, wildlife, and view of the lake are quite relaxing to get your mind off the hustle and bustle of city life. Another spot to go check out is Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve in Plano. Oak Point has an awesome boardwalk that meanders through forest which connects to hike and bike trails adjacent to a lake. Klyde Warren Park was built above Woodall Rodgers Freeway. It is located in the Arts District of Dallas. There are a lot of events and activities that happen there. The park is also lined with food trucks serving sweet and savory items. Some of my favorite restaurants to eat at are in the Bishop Arts District located in the Oak Cliff Neighborhood south of downtown Dallas This area has a lot of new restaurants popping up, but some of my faves are Enos for thin crust pizza, Oddfellows and Tribal Cafe for breakfast, Paradiso and Written By the Seasons if you want to splurge on fine cuisine. A couple of my favorite spots to hangout with friends, study, or just have a cup of coffee or a drink is Wild Detectives. This bookstore and cafe has been my go to meeting spot because of the chill vibes. One day out of the week they turn off their wifi so you have no other choice but to socialize with people around you. Another chill spot is 1418 Coffee in Plano. They have an assortment of lattes, pastries, and desserts, but the coffeehouse in general is laid back with couches, bar top, and bench style seating depending on your choice of interaction.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
So many people have encouraged me. First off my lovely wife has been one of my greatest supporters. She has pushed me to go pursue my passions, provide constructive criticism, and keep a positive mindset. My parents helped spark my creativity and allowed me a safe space to flex my artistic abilities. My closest friends for helping me stay consistent and giving me unwavering support.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krishanpatelphoto/

Other: email: krishanpatelphoto@gmail.com

Image Credits
Krishan Patel