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Journalism of Courage
I have always been a secret poser. I have worked on my sad, happy and angry looks in front of the mirror since I was a child but I wouldn8217;t be caught dead in front of a camera. So I was a little reluctant as I was about to step into Prem Studio in north Delhi to get a matrimonial portrait for an assignment.
It8217;s the same studio where the Delhi University election candidates come for a digital makeover. I was gaping at the photographs when the man at the reception asked me what I want. 8220;A matrimonial portrait,8221; I said. I was asked to wait.
8220;But didn8217;t they notice the difference when they finally met her?8221; I asked her. She guffawed loudly and pinched my cheeks. 8220;The boys get it done too beta. Everyone knows that in person they look completely different,8221; she said confidently.
Just then the photographer came out and led them in. 8220;But I was here first,8221; I protested. 8220;You8217;re not wearing any make-up. There8217;s only so much we can do to make you look better,8221; he said. He then instructed a lady at the counter who I presumed was their make-up artist to get me ready. I was guided to a small room with red walls so bright that it was difficult to keep my eyes open. For the next 10-15 minutes, she worked on around my face.
One look in the mirror and I started. My face looked whiter than a Ramsay ghost. 8220;Isn8217;t this too much?8221; I asked her as I looked around for a box of tissues. 8220;No, the extra make-up wont show in the pictures but it will make you look fairer,8221; she said. 8220;But I don8217;t want it to. I look like a clown,8221; I complained. Job done, she ignored me and walked out. I followed her into the studio.
The photographer asked me if I wanted to pose or get a simple photograph clicked. 8220;What do you suggest?8221; I asked. 8220;A simple photo will suit your style. Put your hands on your lap and smile shyly,8221; he said. 8220;No, don8217;t show your teeth.8221;
I followed his instructions and he clicked away while making small talk. 8220;You wait and see how many proposals you get after putting our pictures on the matrimonial website,8221; he said. After about an hour, we are done for the day. 8220;Can I see the pictures?8221; I asked him. 8220;No. You collect them tomorrow. And please visit us with mithai after you find your match,8221; he said. Yes, I said, and shuddered at the thought.
No, I am not going to tell my mother what I did to earn my living this week.
Ishita Yadav is a feature writer with Eye
