What began as playful imitation has turned into a remarkable talent for four-year-old Pihu, also known as Sree Saivi, from Palakkad in Kerala. The child has captured social media attention for her quiet focus and surprising confidence behind a professional camera.
Her journey gained public notice last November after MP Shafi Parambil shared a video and photographs taken by her. The post quickly went viral, with many praising her natural eye for detail.
Learning by watching
Pihu is the daughter of professional photographer Vipin Das and Sreeeshma Sreedharan, who run a studio named Videobeats in Palakkad. According to her father, she first picked up a camera at a birthday party and began mimicking other photographers.
“She handled the device with care and captured around 10 good photos in her first attempt,” Vipin said in an interview.
Since then, she has accompanied him on outdoor shoots, gradually becoming comfortable with framing shots and adjusting to lighting conditions, even without understanding technical details.
Festival moments and viral clips
During Kalpathi Ratholsavam, visitors noticed the young girl clicking pictures while supported by her father. One of her favourite shots, according to Vipin, was of a woman street vendor who posed for her.
She also photographed her mother during a maternity shoot at a resort in Attappady. Videos from the session and other candid moments have since circulated widely online.
Parents respond to criticism
While some have criticised the parents for allegedly pushing her into photography, they insist her interest is natural and evolving.
“She is too young. Her interests may change. We will support whatever she chooses,” her father said.
As she prepares to begin formal schooling this year, Pihu remains unaware of her growing online popularity, continuing to capture everyday moments with quiet enthusiasm and curiosity.