The air in "Pixel Perfect Studios" was thick with the scent of chemicals and the low hum of equipment. Rajveer stood under the harsh glare of the studio lights, feeling a strange mix of detachment and burgeoning anticipation. The photographer, a wiry man in his late thirties named Rohan with perpetually enthusiastic eyes, peered at him through the lens of a high-end digital camera.
Rohan had greeted him with professional courtesy, but as Rajveer posed for the initial shots – simple headshots against a neutral backdrop – Rohan's demeanor shifted. He started making small sounds of appreciation, a low "hmm" or a satisfied "yes."
"Chin up a fraction… perfect," Rohan murmured, clicking away. "Now, a slight turn to the left… the light catches your jawline beautifully."
After a series of standard poses, Rohan gestured for Rajveer to relax for a moment. He lowered his camera, his eyes still fixed on Rajveer with a newfound intensity.
"Rajveer," he began, his voice laced with genuine admiration, "I've worked with my fair share of aspiring models and actors, but… you, my friend, are something else."
Rajveer raised an eyebrow slightly, a hint of amusement playing on his lips. "Is that a good 'something else'?"
Rohan chuckled, running a hand through his already disheveled hair. "Good is an understatement! Your face… it's like it was sculpted for the camera. The symmetry, the angles… it's captivating. And your physique…" He gestured with his hand, taking in Rajveer's lean yet powerful build beneath the black t-shirt. "You have a natural confidence, a presence that just radiates. Honestly, you look like you've been doing this for years."
Rajveer simply offered a polite smile, the years of experience he possessed belonging to other lives.
'Well, being in a position of power for most of my life in one of my previous transmigrations has definitely affected me in some way. Having a skill like memory palace has made all of my transmigrations easier. Easing the burden on my mind. Not to forget my charm trait. I can't even turn it off.'
Rohan walked around him, circling like an artist admiring his masterpiece. "And the way you hold yourself… it's effortless. You just know how to stand, how to look into the lens. It's uncanny." He picked up his camera again, a renewed energy in his movements. "Let's try some full-length shots now. Against the white seamless."
As Rajveer moved to the designated area, Rohan continued to offer enthusiastic directions, his praise becoming more effusive with each click of the shutter.
"Yes! That's it! The way the light falls on your shoulders… magnificent!"
"The confidence in your eyes… you're selling it without even trying!"
"Hold that pose… just a little longer… perfect! You're a natural, Rajveer, an absolute natural."
"Is this really all for my portfolio?" asked Rajveer suddenly.
Rohan has an embarrassed expression on his face, "To be honest, for a portfolio, all you need is your side profiles and a face to the camera while your introductions. But… you have such a photogenic face that I can't control myself. It's like God has especially taken his time to carve you. If you know what I mean? Please, just let me take your photos. I'll definitely make good use of it."
Rajveer just stared at him dumbfounded, but agreed after thinking for a moment. 'One way or another, it will increase my visibility.'
After an hour of shooting various poses and outfits Rajveer had brought, Rohan leaned back against a stool, a look of genuine excitement on his face.
"Rajveer," he said, his voice more serious now, "you have the potential to go very far in this industry. Seriously. Your look is versatile – you could do high fashion, commercials, even films. My instincts are telling me this. But navigating this world on your own can be… challenging."
Rajveer listened attentively, absorbing the photographer's assessment.
"What do you suggest?" he asked.
"You need a good manager," Rohan stated firmly. "Someone who knows the right people, who can get you auditions, negotiate contracts, and handle the business side of things. It will free you up to focus on creative work."
He tapped his chin thoughtfully. "Actually, I have a friend… Priya. She's fantastic. Been in the industry for years, has incredible connections – designers, casting directors, filmmakers… she knows everyone. And more importantly, she has a real eye for talent. I think she'd be very excited about you."
Rohan pulled out his phone. "Let me give her a quick call. Just to see if she's available for a chat." He dialed a number, his voice animated as he spoke to the person on the other end.
"Priya? Hi! It's Rohan from Pixel Perfect… Listen, I just finished a photoshoot with this young guy… and Priya, honestly, I haven't seen raw potential like this in years. Incredible face, physique, the works… Yeah, I think you absolutely need to meet him… He's here with me now… Would you have fifteen minutes to maybe… fantastic! I'll put him on."
Rohan handed the phone to Rajveer, a hopeful look in his eyes. "Just introduce yourself. Tell her I said hello. This could be a big break for you, Rajveer."
Rajveer took the phone, a sense of opportunity tingling within him. "Hello, Priya? My name is Rajveer…"
He introduced himself, keeping his tone confident yet respectful, briefly mentioning Rohan's enthusiastic appraisal. Priya's voice on the other end was sharp, efficient, and immediately business-like, yet with an undercurrent of warmth. She agreed to meet him at Rohan's studio in fifteen minutes, her curiosity clearly piqued.
True to her word, fifteen minutes later, a stylish woman in her early forties, with sharp features and an aura of effortless power, walked into the studio. Priya's eyes, intelligent and assessing, immediately locked onto Rajveer. She shook his hand firmly, offering a brief, professional smile.
"Rajveer. Rohan has been raving about you, which is quite rare by the way. And I must say, he wasn't exaggerating." Her gaze swept over him, taking in his appearance with a practiced eye. "You certainly have… the presence."
Rohan beamed, clearly pleased with Priya's initial reaction. He offered them both chairs near the backdrop.
"So, Rajveer," Priya began, her focus entirely on him now. "Tell me about yourself. What are your ambitions in this industry?"
Rajveer met her direct gaze with equal intensity. "My goal is to become a successful actor, someone who can bring diverse and compelling characters to life. I also have a strong desire to write and eventually produce my own stories." He paused, considering how much to reveal.
"Ultimately, I want to make a significant impact, not just in the entertainment industry, but perhaps… beyond it as well." He kept the more fantastical elements of his past lives and grander ambitions to himself for now, sensing Priya's pragmatic nature.
Priya listened intently, her expression thoughtful. "Acting and writing… that's a good combination. Many successful actors have also ventured into writing and production. Ambition is very crucial in this industry, Rajveer. You certainly seem to possess that. What experience do you have?"
Rajveer knew this was a potential stumbling block. "I have done theatre during my college in IIT Bombay," he began carefully. " I have also taken music classes, so I am well versed in singing and a few other instruments like Guitar and Piano."
'Of course I am lying about music classes and instruments, but I can change the structure of my larynx to make my voice more melodious and sweet. As for the instruments, my good ol' trait, fast learner, can make me learn anything in a very short period of time. Really, I have so many advantages compared to any other aspiring actors. The most powerful trait of mine is definitely luck, which just increases over time, making me incredibly lucky. It is really unfair for those who are struggling in this industry for years, with hardly any notable work. But I can't do anything about them now. Maybe in the future…'
Meanwhile, Priya's eyebrows rose slightly, "You are way ahead of many models and actors already. However," she continued, her tone becoming more advisory, "raw talent, while valuable, isn't always enough. This industry demands skill, technique, and discipline. There is a difference between doing theatre and acting in front of a camera. To truly hone your craft, especially in acting and even in your writing through understanding dramatic structure, I would strongly advise you to enroll in a reputable acting institute."
She leaned forward slightly, her gaze earnest. "And considering your… striking presence," she added, a hint of a smile playing on her lips, "dance classes would also be immensely beneficial. It will enhance your physicality, your movement, and your overall stage presence. Plus, many films incorporate dance sequences."
She paused, allowing him to absorb her advice. "There are some excellent institutes in Mumbai. I can recommend a few that have produced some very successful actors and dancers. Think of it as an investment in your future, Rajveer. It will give you the foundation and the network you need to navigate this competitive landscape."
Rajveer considered her words. They made logical sense. While his inherent abilities might give him a head start in terms of presence, formal training would undoubtedly provide him with the tools and techniques to truly excel. He also recognized the value of networking within the industry.
"That sounds like sound advice, Priya," Rajveer said, nodding thoughtfully. "I'm willing to put in the work and learn. Which institutes would you recommend?"
Priya's lips curved into a more genuine smile. "Good. That's the right attitude. I know a few places that would be perfect for someone with your potential. Let me make some calls and get you some information. In the meantime," she added, pulling out a business card, "here's my card. Keep in touch. Rohan has my number. Let's start building your portfolio and exploring some initial opportunities once you've begun your training."
She stood up, her movements decisive. "Rohan, thank you for the introduction. Rajveer, I see real promise here. Don't waste it. I'll form a contract. Make sure to read it properly. Tell me if you find any problems." With a final, assessing glance, she turned and left the studio, leaving a palpable sense of opportunity in her wake.
Rajveer looked at the business card in his hand, a sense of focused determination settling within him. Priya's directness and belief in his potential were encouraging. The path forward was becoming clearer: hone his skills, build his network, and work relentlessly towards his ambitions. The journey had truly begun.