On the concluding day of ‘The Power of Monochrome,’ black-and-white photography exhibition, Vinay Thakur, renowned fine art photographer with over decades of experience, engaged the audience on ‘Developing a Photographic Vision’ at the Rangayan Hall, Chitnavis Centre, on January 5th. Addressing a packed audience, he shared the transformative essence of monochrome photography. Thakur engaged into the art of observation, perception and storytelling, underscoring the interplay of light, shadow and emotion. “Photography is not about capturing moments: it’s about crafting narratives that resonate beyong the picture,” he explained. He also addressed ‘photography as something operating in a gymnasium, as you frame your vision.’ It is a form of painting where expression breathes life into the image.

 

Demonstrating some of his notable works, Thakur elaborated on the meaning and observations behind each photograph. Feeling Alive, Kashmiri Lady, Reaching the Goal Together and Looking back at the Reflection, Thakur revealed stories behind these monochrome imagery, capturing the subtitles of life life, emotions and world’s nuances. The photograph of Kasmiri Lady is one of his unique interactions during his trip at the Kashmir, as he fascinatedly wanted to shot this scene, lady and her reaction looking at the Rifle, he added. During the second-half, Thakur fondly recalled the advice from one of his mentors in France as, ‘KISS - Keep it Simple, Stupid.’ This philisophy helped him guide his approach, creating impactful photographs. Thakur summarised his philosophy as, “Photography is a documentation that unfolds as a story,” in a media interaction at the concluding session. He appealed young photographers to look beyond the lens and engage themselves in the creative process of monochrome imagery.