This was one of those rare events where photographers outnumbered visitors. Then again, put P C Sreeram in a gallery packed with over a thousand rare cameras and it stands to reason that amateur shutterbugs would arrive by the dozen. In fact, the flashes that swarmed around the cinematography guru continued for a good 20 minutes before any words were said at all.
Incidentally, the exhibition was launched on World Photography Day (August 19.) P C Sreeram, who remained invisible for the most part with his lensman entourage was gracious and appeared eager to guess the era of various camera models on display.
“This is from ‘98 no?” he asked artist A P Sreethar who curated the showcase at the Art House on Kasturi Rangan Road.
Walking around and taking in the multiple glass-covered shelves of cameras, some that date back to the 1880s — this was any photography enthusiasts’ paradise.
Said Sreeram a little later, “Everybody should know the history of photography (with film). It’s over a 100 years old.” He added for the benefit of young enthusiasts present, “Digital photography has been around for less than 10 years.” To create a national platform for youngsters to better understand the world of photography, a movement called ‘Smile Please’ was unveiled at this time.
But back to the exhibition. One of the rarest cameras on display was the studio bellows — seven feet in length and crafted out of wood, this antique piece drew much attention and awe from visitors. Asked about how he managed such an elaborate feat of bringing the cameras together, artist Sreethar responded, “I’ve been collecting cameras for nine years.” He continued, “But have stepped it up seriously only in the last two years,” he confided. Seeking out these rare cameras also took him all over the globe — 12 countries to be precise. He added humbly, “But I am no photographer, I’ve maybe taken five photos at best.”
Also on display are framed black-and-white photos of Kollywood’s yesteryear directors and actors cranking up the camera. Think of greats such as Mahendran, L V Prasad and even MGR, for a dash of nostalgia. The exhibition is on till September 10.
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