GLOBAL GOENKAR PHOTOGRAPHERS IN FOCUS
LONDON
A basic course in photography in Panaji, Goa, was all that it took for a young Goan to enter, explore and excel in the world of fashion photography in the UK.
Russel Shawn Diniz has already gained acclaim for his photography, and his photos of beauty pageant winners, international models, and renowned personalities have been featured in global fashion publications.
LIFE IN GOA
Born in Dramapur, South Goa, Russel did his 10th at Perpetual Succour Convent High School, Navelim, and his 12th Science at Cuncolim United Higher Secondary School.
While still a student, his desire for photography prompted him to enrol for a course in digital photography at Stenodac Institute of Professional Photography in Panaji.
Russel then migrated to the UK in March 2019 and enrolled for a Bsc (Hons) in adult Nursing, graduating from Keele university while continuing to pursue his interest in photography alongside his studies.
LOVE FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
However, Russel’s passion for photos drew him to the field of photography.
“I am a self-taught student of photography. I did not undertake any additional college training but made use of various YouTube and other online software training to sharpen my skills. I uploaded my photographs on a website he developed and on Instagram. My work was recognised, and I was invited to cover the London Fashion Week and major fashion events across Europe said Russel.
“I have been attracted to the power of an image that can transmit emotion, beauty and personality without words."
Russel then spent a lot of time practising and experimenting in portrait with various creative shoots, thus developing his very own style.
ACCLAIM IN FASHION WORLD
Over the last five years, Russel has covered international fashion photography at the topmost level. His brand, ‘Russel Photography', is now well recognised, and his work ranges from global runways to editorial work and pageantry photography.
“My work has been featured in global fashion publications, I collaborate with models and personalities connected to global platforms such as Miss England, Miss World, Miss Universe, I have also covered global fashion brands, notable personalities, and international models and television personalities,” said Russel.
Russel said one of the key highlights of his journey was working with the reigning Miss World England 2025, Grace Richardson, who will represent England at Miss World 2026.
“I am also actively involved as a fashion runway photographer at London Fashion Week and other major European shows, capturing both runway and behind-the-scenes moments,” said Russel.
“I have collaborated with the internationally recognised couture brands such as Aadnevik, known for dressing celebrities such as Selena Gomez, Kendall Jenner, Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez and Rihanna, reflecting the global reach of my work.”
Russel said his portfolio also includes internationally recognised models and collaborations with television personalities such as Nathalia Campos (Love Island) and Georgia Wood (Celebs Go Dating), as well as British-American actress and model Afton McKeith, who has appeared in campaigns alongside Central Cee and on ITV’s Loose Women.
Russel’s work has also extended to influential figures in pageantry and advocacy.
“I have photographed Melisa Raouf, the first contestant in the 94-year history of the Miss England beauty pageant to compete without makeup to promote natural beauty; Emily Cossey, the first UK pageant queen to be crowned Miss Tourism Queen of the Year International; and Emma Rose Collingridge, recognised for her historic achievements at Miss Universe and Miss Supranational,” said Russel.
“Another of my milestones was having my work featured on the front cover of the Miss England Calendar 2025, showcasing Miss England 2024, Milla Magee, supporting her 'Beauty with a Purpose' initiative, GoFarWithCPR, a global campaign founded by former Miss England, Milla Magee to making CPR and basic first aid training compulsory in school curriculums.”
Russel’s photography has also been featured in international fashion publications and press releases associated with Miss England.
“I have worked with models across London, Paris and New York fashion circuits, including those featured on platforms such as Times Square, as well as talent from Miss Swimsuit USA and Gold Coast Swim Week,” he added.
FUTURE PLANS
When asked for his future plans, Russel replied: “At the moment, I am focused on expanding my work further within international fashion weeks and continuing to collaborate with designers, models and creatives across London, Paris and New York.”
“One of my upcoming focuses is building more long-form visual stories rather than just individual images, projects that feel more cinematic and emotionally driven while still grounded in high fashion aesthetics. I am also interested in continuing to document behind-the-scenes culture within fashion as those moments often reveal the most honest side of the industry.”
“In terms of dream projects, I would like to work on global campaigns that combine fashion with purpose-driven storytelling where imagery is used not only for beauty but also for cultural or social impact.”
LOVE FOR MUSIC
Apart from photography, Russel also enjoys playing the guitar.
He learnt to play the guitar at St Sebastian Music School in Aquem-Margao, reads music and played at St Joseph Church, his local church in Dramapur, South Goa.
After moving to the UK, he continued playing the guitar at St Vincent de Paul Church in Osterley, London.
“I feel that music taught me emotion, rhythm and patience when connecting with people,” explained Russel.
