BRAND AMBASSADOR
Kay Nambiar
18 February, 2025
As a musician, TV-host and model, Amsterdam-based Kay Nambiar has lived many lives. In recent years, his focus has shifted towards photography, working for brands and magazines allover the world. We caught up with him to ask him about his seemingly endless creativity and what role his Ace Two plays in his daily life.
Who or what are some of your most significant influences, and how do you keep your creative energy alive while pushing the boundaries of your work?
My sources of inspiration are diverse and often depend on the circumstances. It can come from anything I encounter in my day-to-day life, whether it's something I read, a piece of music, a conversation, or even a brief moment I observe. Moreover, being in a new environment has a significant influence on my creativity, offering new ideas and viewpoints that I may not have previously considered.
Your creativity spans different mediums, with music, modeling, TV work and now photography. How do you approach each project?
The approach differs depending on the project. For commercial work, it typically starts with a mood board or a creative meeting with the client, which I then interpret and transform into my own way. For personal projects, however, I draw inspiration from things that resonate with me on a personal level.
Is there a particular project that holds special significance in your career? What made it stand out as a defining moment for you?
A project that holds special significance is a story I shot in India. It was especially meaningful due to my Indian heritage, which made the experience very personal. The opportunity to connect with my roots while sharing a narrative that resonated with my cultural background made it a special moment in my career.
Are there particular tools or techniques that you find essential for your creative process?
I typically shoot on film, a medium that has remained largely unchanged over the years. However, during commercial shoots that require a fully digital setup, technology is evolving at an incredibly fast pace. For me, this translates into a more efficient workflow, with improved software and cameras that continually enhance the process.
You use the Veloretti Electric Ace Two, which undoubtedly enhances how you get around. What initially attracted you to Veloretti, and how does the Ace Two fit into your everyday life?
I love the bike's minimal design and sleek aesthetics. Combined with its ease of use, it makes for the perfect mode of transportation, especially when you need to get around town quickly.
How does cycling fit into your daily life or creative routine? Do you find that it influences the way you approach photography or design?
I was born and raised in Amsterdam, so cycling is practically in my DNA! I do everything by bike; it's the perfect way to get around in a city that's so compact, with everything just a short ride away.
Do you have a favourite route?
I love biking from Amsterdam to the countryside just outside Amsterdam Noord, where my family lives. It's a beautiful journey through the fields, especially during the late summer and early fall when the landscapes are most stunning.
What upcoming projects are you excited about?
I'm currently working on my first publication, which is due early next year. It features work I shot during my two years of living in New York. While I'm still in the editing phase, I'm really excited to see everything come together and be printed.