Interview with Sports Photographer & Videographer - Zaki Mulla

Inside the career of a photographer shaped by football at every level

In this interview, a Mumbai-based football photographer shares his evolution from shooting local club matches to working with professional teams in the ISL and I-League. His journey reflects how persistence, networking, and hands-on experience across different levels of football helped him build a strong career in sports media

About Zaki

Zaki is a sports and events photographer whose work spans football, lifestyle, and large-scale global productions. Over the years, he has built a diverse portfolio by working on both grassroots and high-profile assignments, including major international projects like the Messi GOAT Tour and collaborations linked to David Beckham. He has also contributed to creative campaigns associated with global brands such as Google, YouTube, and Meta. His journey reflects a balance of technical skill, adaptability, and experience across different scales of production.

Q1 — Where did you start your journey in photography? Which genre/company did you start with? 

I started my photography journey by doing different kinds of shoots and slowly understanding what I enjoyed the most. In the beginning, I worked with a few local football clubs in Mumbai, which helped me gain experience and improve my skills. During that time, I came across some ISL players training in Mumbai for pre-season, so I reached out to them personally and got an opportunity to work with them. That experience helped me build a strong sports portfolio. 

Later, I applied for an opening at Rajasthan United FC in the I-League and got selected. I worked there for a year, which gave me valuable professional experience in football media. After that, I returned to Mumbai and worked as a freelancer for around a year, shooting both photos and videos. At the same time, I was also freelancing with Mumbai City FC. Eventually, I got an opportunity with Punjab FC in the ISL, and later I joined Mumbai City FC professionally as a photographer and videographer.

Q2 — What do you like most about Sports Photography? Which other genre do you like the most? 

What I love most about sports photography is capturing real emotions and moments that happen within seconds. Every match has a different story — celebrations, pressure, intensity, fans, and emotions — and being able to freeze those moments feels very special to me. I also enjoy the fast-paced environment because every game teaches you something new. 

Apart from sports, I also enjoy lifestyle and cinematic content because it allows more creativity and storytelling in a different way.

Q3 — Any mistakes which you had learned the most from? 

One of the biggest things I learned early on was that photography is not only about camera settings or expensive gear. Timing, consistency, and understanding the moment matter much more. I’ve also made mistakes like not being fully prepared during shoots, underestimating storage or battery backup, or focusing too much on technical perfection instead of storytelling. Those experiences taught me to stay prepared and think ahead during every assignment.

Q4 — Any Tips for Sports Photographers Starting their Journey? 

Start shooting as much as possible, even if it’s local matches or small tournaments. Sports photography improves with experience and repetition. Learn the sport properly because understanding player movement helps you predict moments before they happen. Also, don’t wait for expensive gear to begin — consistency and hard work matter more in the early stages.

Q5 — Any YouTube / Instagram Channels or Photographers You follow the Most? 

I follow a mix of sports photographers, filmmakers, football clubs, and creative creators online such as Ali Bharmal, Vaqaas, Camerawalebhaiya (Soumesh Pandey) and a lot of inspiration from photographers & videographers working with IPL, ISL teams and top European football clubs. I enjoy studying work from international football media teams and sports creatives because it helps me understand storytelling, editing, and match coverage better. But I believe the biggest learning always comes from shooting regularly and analyzing your own work.

Q6 — Any Financial Advice on photographers Struggling to Stay Afloat? 

In the beginning, managing finances properly is very important. Many photographers feel pressure to constantly upgrade gear, but I think investing in skills is more important than chasing equipment trends. Try building multiple skills like photography, videography, editing, and social media content because it creates more opportunities and stability over time.

Q7 — Any Tips on How to reach the Big Leagues in Sports Photography? 

Consistency and networking are extremely important. Keep building your portfolio, post your work regularly, and treat every local opportunity seriously because you never know who might notice your work. Professionalism, discipline, and delivering content on time matter a lot at higher levels like ISL, IPL, or Pro Kabaddi. Most importantly, stay patient because these opportunities usually come after years of consistent effort.

Q8 — Everyone wants reels these days. Do you think Photography is no longer in Demand? 

I think photography will always remain important. Reels and video content are growing fast, but powerful photographs still capture emotions and moments in a unique way. The industry is evolving, so creatives who can do both photo and video definitely have an advantage today. But photography itself is still very valuable and relevant.

Final Thoughts

The key takeaway from his journey is the importance of gradual progression, adaptability, and consistency in sports photography. From local Mumbai football to ISL assignments, his experience highlights how learning on the field, building strong relationships, and staying professionally reliable are what ultimately open doors to top-tier opportunities.