Politicians in Uttar Pradesh now look at photoshopping to improve 'image'

Lucknow: With the election process kicking off from Saturday, politicians in Uttar Pradesh are busy photo-shopping their images.

Netas of all political shapes and sizes are taking part in elaborate photo sessions so that they can give their 'best shot' in the elections.

 
"Times have changed and now presentation matters most. In our times, no one looked at our faces - they scrutinised our work but now the 'look' matters most. As they say, the first impression is also the last impression," explains veteran politician Ram Naresh Dwiwedi.

Majority of the UP leaders have been camping in Delhi - only for tickets - but also for getting themselves photographed at a particular photo studio in Gol market area. The photo studio is also believed to be immensely lucky for politicians.

 
A Samajwadi leader from eastern UP, known for his scruffy look, says he has been getting himself photographed at this particular shop since the past one decade.

 
"The photographer gives me a magical makeover and at times, I cannot believe it is me in the photograph. Besides, he has been lucky for me and I get all my photographs clicked by him. If he is not available, I use my old photographs but never opt for another one," he says

The particular photographer at the Delhi's Gol market studio belongs to Jaunpur district in Uttar Pradesh and admits that he has a regular clientele that keep him busy during elections.

About the makeover, he says, "Most of them have sunburnt skins and do not take regular care of their skin. I have to give them a few layers of foundations and ensure diffused lighting so that they photograph well. Besides we have Photoshop software which makes further corrections," he says.

If sources are to be believed, this particular photographer has become so famous in political circles that even top-notch politicians in the state summon him to their residences for a photo-shoot.

However, he refuses to divulge their names. "It is a trade secret and I cannot betray their confidence," he says with a smile.

Meanwhile, some of the other top politicians have already visited Mumbai to get their photoshoots done by fashion photographers.

One such politician, who belongs to the Bahujan Samaj Party, says, "The fashion photographers know your best angles and play up your positive side. A good photograph is necessary because it reaches the people before you do and stays in their mind. Even a person with villainous looks can get a positive response if he has been well photographed."