M. Aminur Rahman
CEO & Chief Photographer
Checkmate Events
M. Aminur Rahman is not just a name but a brand synonymous with innovation, artistry, and entrepreneurial excellence in the world of photography and creative storytelling. As the CEO and Chief Photographer of Checkmate Events, he has redefined the standards of visual art in Bangladesh, turning fleeting moments into timeless memories. Under his dynamic leadership, Checkmate has completed over 11,000 projects, setting benchmarks in wedding and corporate photography that resonate far beyond borders.
From humble beginnings to global recognition, Mr. Rahman’s journey reflects resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Representing his craft at esteemed conventions like PPAC, PEP Asia, and SILK Inspire, he has infused international standards into his work, establishing Checkmate as a household name in the industry. His trailblazing ventures, such as ‘The Masterpiece™ Series Photography’ and ‘Wed-Classic Cinematic Wedding Films,’ exemplify his ability to innovate and inspire.
More than an entrepreneur, Mr. Rahman is a mentor, a storyteller, and a dreamer who empowers the next generation of creative minds. His story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance, making him an icon in the photography industry and beyond.
Let’s dive into his inspiring journey and exclusive insights in this captivating interview!
The InCAP: Mr. Aminur Rahman, your remarkable journey as CEO and Chief Photographer of Checkmate has set new benchmarks in the Wedding and Corporate Photography industry. What pivotal moments and challenges have defined your leadership and shaped the company’s success over the last decade?
M. Aminur Rahman: My journey as CEO and Chief Photographer has been nothing short of transformative, both personally and professionally. One of the most pivotal moments was the realization that photography is more than a profession—it is a medium to capture memories, emotions, and stories that last a lifetime. This realization became the cornerstone of Checkmate’s vision.
Challenges were inevitable, especially during the initial years when the market was still evolving, and photography was not considered a high-value service. Convincing clients to see the value in our work required us to consistently deliver beyond expectations. Another significant challenge was building a team that shared my vision. It took time to find talented individuals who were not only skilled but also committed to the ethos of Checkmate.
The introduction of services like ‘The Masterpiece™ Series Photography’ and ‘Wed-Classic Cinematic Wedding Films’ was another defining moment. These offerings elevated our brand identity, setting new industry standards. Overcoming competition, adapting to rapidly changing technology, and consistently innovating have been integral to our growth. Today, Checkmate stands as a testament to what dedication, creativity, and resilience can achieve over a decade of hard work.
What motivated you to establish Checkmate, and how did you envision its journey when you first started? What were the key challenges you encountered while transforming it into the industry leader it has become today?
The motivation to establish Checkmate was rooted in my passion for storytelling and creating art that resonates on a personal level. Alongside my co-founder and wife, Sadia Afrin, we envisioned Checkmate as more than just a photography company—we saw it as a brand synonymous with trust, creativity, and excellence.
When we started, our vision was to elevate the standards of wedding and corporate photography in Bangladesh. However, the journey was not without hurdles. One of the most significant challenges was gaining trust in a market that was largely unregulated. Clients were skeptical about investing in premium photography services, and we had to prove our value with every project.
Managing limited resources was another challenge. We had to make strategic decisions about where to invest—whether it was upgrading equipment, marketing our brand, or training our team. Additionally, staying relevant in a highly competitive market required constant innovation.
Today, as we look back, these challenges have only strengthened our resolve. They pushed us to think creatively, work harder, and deliver more. We transformed obstacles into opportunities, and this journey has been one of the most rewarding aspects of building Checkmate.
Checkmate has grown to become a leader in wedding and corporate event photography, completing over 11,000 projects. What strategies and innovations have been instrumental in achieving this remarkable success?
The success of Checkmate lies in its adaptability and forward-thinking approach. Completing over 11,000 projects required us to develop a robust strategy focused on quality, creativity, and client satisfaction.
From the beginning, we embraced technology as an enabler. By investing in cutting-edge equipment and software, we ensured that our work was always ahead of the curve. Social media played a pivotal role in amplifying our reach. By showcasing our work on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, we were able to connect with clients who appreciated our style and vision.
Our team culture has also been a key factor. We foster an environment where creativity thrives, encouraging our team to push boundaries and experiment with new ideas. Regular training sessions ensure that everyone stays updated with global trends.
Innovations like ‘The Masterpiece™ Series Photography’ and ‘Wed-Classic Cinematic Wedding Films’ helped us carve a niche in the market. These offerings became synonymous with Checkmate’s brand identity, setting us apart from competitors.
Lastly, maintaining a client-centric approach has been crucial. Listening to feedback, adapting to client needs, and delivering personalized services have been at the heart of our strategy. This has helped us build lasting relationships and a reputation for excellence.
How have services like ‘The Masterpiece™ Series Photography’ and ‘Wed-Classic Cinematic Wedding Films’ become cornerstones of Checkmate’s brand identity? Could you share the creative philosophy and impact these offerings have on your clients and the industry?
‘The Masterpiece™ Series Photography’ and ‘Wed-Classic Cinematic Wedding Films’ are more than just services—they are experiences that reflect our commitment to storytelling and artistic excellence. These offerings emerged from a desire to create something unique, something that would not just capture moments but also evoke emotions and tell stories that resonate deeply with our clients.
The creative philosophy behind these services is rooted in the idea of authenticity. We believe that every client has a unique story, and our role is to bring that story to life through our lens. This requires a deep understanding of our clients, their personalities, and their aspirations.
The impact of these offerings has been profound. Clients often tell us that our work exceeded their expectations, that we captured moments they didn’t even realize were significant at the time. This emotional connection has set a new benchmark in the industry, inspiring other photographers to elevate their standards.
Moreover, these services have strengthened Checkmate’s brand identity. They have become a symbol of trust and creativity, attracting clients who seek exceptional quality and a personalized touch.
Leading a team of highly skilled professionals in photography, videography, and editing requires a unique leadership approach. How do you foster collaboration while maintaining high standards across all aspects of your work?
Leadership by example has always been my approach. I prioritize clear and open communication, ensuring that client requirements are translated seamlessly across all departments. Regular team meetings play a pivotal role in aligning everyone’s efforts toward a common goal. I also focus on fostering harmony and cultivating a positive work culture, as mutual respect and collaboration are the foundation of our success. By promoting teamwork and maintaining high standards in all areas, I ensure that we deliver exceptional results consistently.
Photography is both an art and a business, requiring a delicate balance between creative brilliance and operational efficiency. How do you harmonize the pursuit of artistic excellence with the challenges of managing client expectations, streamlining operations, and fostering team growth?
Entrepreneurship is a continuous balancing act that I embrace wholeheartedly. To manage client expectations, I prioritize organization and focus, relying on detailed schedules and operational workflows. Streamlining processes ensures that every project runs smoothly without compromising creativity. Regular feedback and training sessions are essential for fostering team growth and maintaining our creative edge. Additionally, I place great emphasis on time management and occasionally take breaks to realign priorities and maintain a healthy work-life balance. This harmony between artistic excellence and operational efficiency is key to our sustained success.
You’ve represented Checkmate at prestigious photography conventions like PPAC, PEP Asia, and SILK Inspire. How have these experiences influenced your vision to elevate photography in Bangladesh to a global standard?
Attending global conventions has been transformative for me. These platforms have provided the opportunity to learn from industry leaders, gain exposure to diverse perspectives, and incorporate global standards into our work. Through these experiences, I’ve been inspired to push boundaries and elevate the quality of photography in Bangladesh. My involvement with WPPB and the organization of the largest gatherings of wedding and portrait photographers in the country have further solidified this vision. Moving forward, I aim to expand Checkmate’s reach internationally, showcasing the immense creative potential of Bangladeshi photography on the global stage.
With initiatives like Headshot Bangladesh and Raptors, you are expanding into new territories. What inspired these ventures, and how do they align with your broader vision for Checkmate and the photography industry?
Headshot Bangladesh and Raptors were born out of a desire to diversify and innovate. These ventures, spearheaded by Sadia Afrin’s visionary leadership, are integral to our goal of providing comprehensive photography and videography solutions. They reflect our commitment to excellence across various genres, including corporate photography, events, and weddings. Through the Checkmate Universe, we’ve created a platform that ensures a seamless, high-quality experience for our clients while paving the way for innovative services that redefine industry standards.
Photography is often a deeply personal and emotional art form. What inspires your creative process, and how do you infuse this passion into Checkmate’s signature style?
Our signature style is rooted in authenticity and creative freedom. I draw inspiration from the emotions and stories behind each moment, which drives me to capture images that resonate on a deeper level. At Checkmate, we empower our artists to explore their individuality and bring their unique perspectives to life. This philosophy keeps our work fresh, impactful, and aligned with client preferences. As the industry evolves, we remain adaptive, integrating social media trends and modern aesthetics into our creative process. This balance of tradition and innovation ensures that our work continues to stand out.
Mr. Rahman, as someone who has redefined the photography industry in Bangladesh, what advice would you offer to aspiring photographers and entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in this competitive field?
My advice to aspiring photographers and entrepreneurs is simple yet profound: embrace every challenge as an opportunity. Resilience, innovation, and a strong client-focused approach are crucial to standing out in this competitive field. Build a team that shares your vision and invest in their growth. Maintain a balance between your creative pursuits and the practicalities of running a business. Above all, be patient—success takes time, so enjoy the journey and stay committed to excellence.
As you look back on your distinguished career and the milestones that have defined it, what key pieces of wisdom would you like to share with our esteemed readers.
If there’s one lesson my journey has taught me, it’s the value of time. Time is our most precious asset, and using it wisely can make all the difference. Deep, focused work is the cornerstone of achieving excellence. Stay disciplined, nurture your passion, and never lose sight of your goals. Success is not just about reaching milestones—it’s about growing with each experience and staying true to your vision. With clarity, perseverance, and a commitment to growth, the possibilities are endless.
Quick Chat With M. Aminur Rahman
The greatest achievement of your life as of now:
Turning passion into profession, empowering peoples life and creating happiness.
How do you personally define patriotism:
To live and work for the country with no return expected. Love your country unconditionally.
The greatest philosopher in your view:
Rumi.
Meaning of “Success” to you:
The be chosen and able to help people.
Your Icon:
Hazrat Muhammad Sallalahu Alayhi Wa Sallam (PBUH)
Favorite Poet and Author:
Kazi Nazrul Islam & Haruki Murakami.
Name the most influential books you have read:
Rich Dad, Poor Dad.
Your childhood dream profession:
Being a creative professional.
The best gift you’ve ever received:
My Son.
Your greatest fear:
Falling from a high place.
What motivates you:
Keep moving forward as everyday is a new day.
What’s a talent or skill you wish you had, but don’t yet:
Master in coding and programming.
The Best piece of advice you’ve ever received:
It’s your life, live like a lion, courageous and fearless. (Received from my Mother)
How you wish to be remembered after death:
A generous and honest person.
You in only three words:
Create – Educate – Connect.
Skill Set
- Hard Skills: Professional Photography and Photo Editing, Teaching Undergrad Level Courses.
- Soft Skills: Leadership, Communication, Public Speaking.
Prayer for Human Civilization:
Let’s embed kindness to our life, care for each other and help everyone whenever we get the chance.
The InCAP: Thank you, Mr. M. Aminur Rahman! It’s a glittering conversation with you!
M. Aminur Rahman: My pleasure! Wish you all the best! Thank you.
To read more about Professional’s stories, Please Click Here!
