Exhibition by Photographic Society of Pune showcases black-and-white pics, aims to revive this art

Speaking 1,000 words in B&W

Exhibition by Photographic Society of Pune showcases black-and-white pics, aims to revive this artu00a0

They say a picture speaks a thousand words. An exhibition to be organised by the 10-year-old Photographic Society of Pune (PSP) will dabble with the scope of black-and-white photography.

Many believe that B&W photography is an independent art form and the current generation of photographers should continue with the legacy. This form of photography best brings out the nostalgic feel and gives aesthetic satisfaction akin to a painting.u00a0

u00a0"There is a large scope to get a variety of black-and-white shades," said Sunil Kapadia, president of PSP. "Photoshop has given it a new life and we can get value addition by using the sepia color to give it a nostalgic effect."

PSP has over 125 members who have taken pictures in black-and-white. Fifty such pictures will be displayed, Kapadia said. "Reflection of light from objects and creation of grey shades add beauty to pictures," he said. "This medium can be used in still life, landscape and portrait."

There are many colleges including University of Pune and Fergusson College, who have courses in photography.
The University Hobby Centre was formed in the 1970s. Sharad Gosawi, who initiated the course, had given the facility to develop B&W pictures in a specially created lab near the Physics Department. "We have made many photographers of our students," he said.

Rajendra Mahamuni, of Fergusson College photography department, has trained students, many of who whom have started a career in photojournalism. "Black-and-white photography is a basic principle and it makes one perfect," he said.

In the city, over 300 photo studios were doing business in black-and-white photography from the early 30s to 60s.

Dr Arun Phatak, who learnt photography from his grandfather, said that a picture exhibition Pune in the early 20th century at Balgandharva Kaladalan was a big success. "The clarity in these pictures is amazing and they have brought the Pune of bygone days alive," he said.

Photographers Devidas Bagul and Satish Paknikar are fascinated by B&W pictures. "It's the most difficult and challenging medium of expression and we love it," Paknikar said.