Across the world, August 19 is celebrated as World Photography Day. On this day, the world pays tribute to the history of photography, celebrates the present and decides on the way forward. It also marks the invention of the daguerreotype, a photographic process developed by Louis Daguerre.
Photographs are a powerful way of communicating emotions, feelings, situations and realism to the world. Photographs speak a thousand words and each captures the moment forever.
Today is a day to realise the power of this medium and discuss ways of not only improving this skill but also enhancing the future of better technology for photography.
If it had not been for photography, we may never have seen how the Earth looks like from outer space, what the moon looks like and other space related images that have enthralled us from time to time.
The origin of the day lies in the invention of the Daguerrotype, a photographic process which was developed by Frenchmen Lois Daguerre and Joseph Nicephore Niepce in 1837.
As per historical evidence, on January 9, 1839, the French Academy of Sciences made an announcement regarding the Daguerreotype. After 10 days, the French government got the patents and said that this invention was a gift to the world, without any copyright.
The future of photography – thanks to social media like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, people have become more photo conscious. Newer ways of enhancing photographs, taking better angles and getting the finest print quality are prompting people to get more involved with this medium.
Want to celebrate this day better? Here are some ways –
Gift yourself a camera –
A good camera can make the experience much more satisfying. If photography really interests you, then get a good quality camera for yourself.
Enjoy the pleasure of old memories –
Take out old photographs and enjoy the moments of the past.
Reflect on the photograph, figure out how you could have clicked it better in terms of the quality of the image.
Make a collage –
Pick out some of your best photographs of 2019 and make a collage. Apart from the feel-good factor, it will also motivate you to carry on with your passion.
Make the World Photography Day special.