Photography is more than just capturing images; it is about preserving memories, telling stories, and evoking emotions. Ancel Dias, a talented photographer and cinematographer from Bicholim, Goa, has dedicated himself to mastering this art. At just 24 years old, he has already built an impressive portfolio, transitioning from a passionate hobbyist to a professional in the industry. With a background in mechanical engineering, his journey into photography is a testament to his relentless pursuit of creativity and excellence.
A Passion Turned Profession
Ancel’s love for photography began as a simple hobby—capturing nature, insects, and wildlife using his phone. This early fascination gradually evolved into a more serious pursuit as he recognized the need to refine his skills and invest in professional equipment. Over the past four years, he has developed a unique style that blends technical precision with artistic storytelling, making him a sought-after name in the industry.
Background
During his engineering studies, Ancel discovered a deep passion for photography and began capturing moments using his phone. As his interest grew, he shared his aspirations with his parents. His mother, especially supportive, encouraged him to pursue photography professionally and urged him to enroll in a formal course. This led Ancel to join the CMYK Academy, where he refined his skills. Recognizing his dedication, his parents further supported him by gifting him his first camera, marking the true beginning of his journey into professional photography.
Ancel’s transition into the professional world began when Fr. Peter Britto, a priest from his church, encouraged him to pursue photography seriously. With the support of his family and the priest, he started photographing daily mass and religious ceremonies. This initial experience opened doors to new opportunities, including becoming the official photographer for the band Shine On. He was introduced to the band through a mentor who recognized his talent, and he worked with them for two years, capturing performances and creating video content. Alongside this, Ancel also took on small shoots and wedding assignments.
His portfolio expanded significantly when Ancel was given the opportunity to work on the IFFI 2022 project with Heraldo and cover major events such as Oktoberfest. Over time, he took on a variety of projects, including music videos, events, food and product photography, parties, and weddings. Along his journey, Ancel met an experienced videographer and photographer who invited him to collaborate, allowing him to gain valuable industry knowledge and refine his skills. Through these experiences, he built a strong and dedicated team, committed to delivering top-quality work in every project.
Specialization and Creative Approach
While Ancel explores various genres of photography, his expertise lies in portraits, weddings, events, commercial shoots, and wildlife photography. His approach to conceptualizing a shoot is deeply rooted in understanding his clients’ visions. By engaging in detailed discussions and offering creative ideas, he ensures that every photoshoot becomes a meaningful and memorable experience. His ability to capture candid emotions and frame them aesthetically allows his work to stand out in a competitive industry.
Mastering the Art of Photography
A firm believer in the blend of technical expertise and storytelling, Ancel meticulously plans his shots, considering the perfect camera angles, lighting conditions, and equipment to bring his vision to life. He primarily works with Canon cameras, preferring full-frame models for their superior quality. His go-to lenses include the versatile 24-70mm and the 85mm, which help him achieve stunning portraits and sharp details.
Overcoming challenging environments is part of the job, and Ancel has honed his skills through experience and continuous learning. From dealing with unpredictable lighting to refining his editing techniques using Adobe software, he ensures that every image meets the highest standards of quality.
Facing Challenges and Overcoming Them
Every project comes with its own set of challenges, but Ancel embraces them as opportunities for growth. From technical failures that risked losing valuable data to emotionally significant edits for clients who wanted to preserve memories of loved ones, he has tackled each situation with professionalism and dedication. A notable challenge he recently faced was during Goa Carnival 2025, where he was tasked with shooting and editing an anthem song launch within a tight deadline. His ability to deliver under pressure is a testament to his expertise and adaptability.
Staying Ahead in the Industry
Photography is an ever-evolving field, and Ancel ensures that he stays updated with the latest trends and techniques. By researching industry developments, practicing with his equipment, and learning from fellow photographers, he continuously refines his craft. His philosophy is to compete not with others, but with himself—to become a better version of his artistic self with every project.
Building Strong Client Relationships
Ancel believes that successful photography is not just about technical skills but also about creating a comfortable and professional environment for clients. His approach involves pre-shoot discussions, setting clear expectations, and offering guidance on styling and posing. By fostering a relaxed atmosphere, he helps clients feel at ease, resulting in authentic and expressive photographs.
Handling feedback is another crucial aspect of his work. He values constructive criticism and uses it to improve his services, ensuring that every client walks away satisfied. His commitment to delivering quality has led to strong client relationships and repeat business.
Memorable Projects and Unique Experiences
Among the numerous projects Ancel has worked on, some stand out for their emotional significance. One particularly touching assignment involved digitally incorporating a deceased grandparent into a family portrait, bringing immense joy to the client. Such moments reinforce the power of photography in preserving memories and emotions.
The Role of Social Media in His Growth
In today’s digital era, social media plays a vital role in a photographer’s success. Ancel utilizes platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase his work, attract potential clients, and expand his reach beyond Goa. His online presence allows him to connect with a broader audience, demonstrating his skills and establishing his brand in the competitive photography industry.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Ancel envisions further growth in his career by continuously refining his craft and exploring new genres of photography. He is committed to staying at the forefront of industry trends, embracing innovative techniques, and pushing creative boundaries. His ultimate goal is to create extraordinary visual experiences that leave a lasting impact on his clients and audience.
Advice for Aspiring Photographers
Ancel encourages aspiring photographers to follow their passion fearlessly. He emphasizes that expensive equipment is not a prerequisite for success—what truly matters is dedication, practice, and continuous learning. He advises beginners to start with whatever tools they have, experiment, and gradually upgrade as they progress.
For him, failure is not an endpoint but a learning opportunity. He believes that persistence, adaptability, and a strong personal style are key to standing out in a saturated market.
Conclusion
Ancel Dias exemplifies the essence of passion-driven success. From capturing the beauty of nature on his phone to becoming a professional photographer known for his artistic vision and technical expertise, his journey is inspiring. With a commitment to excellence and an unwavering dedication to his craft, he continues to push creative boundaries and redefine photography as an art form. As he embarks on new ventures and takes on diverse projects, one thing remains constant—his ability to turn fleeting moments into timeless memories.
