Photography was introduced to India shortly after its invention in the mid-19th century. The first recorded photograph in India, a daguerreotype, was taken in 1840. During the British colonial period, photography primarily served as a tool for documenting the landscape, architecture, and people of India. Pioneers like
Samuel Bourne and John Edward Saché captured iconic images of Indian landmarks and daily life, while
Lala Deen Dayal, one of the first Indian photographers, gained acclaim for his detailed portraits and architectural photography.
As the 20th century dawned, Indian photographers began to emerge, bringing a native perspective to the art form.
Raja Deen Dayal continued to build on his earlier success, becoming a court photographer for the Nizam of Hyderabad. Meanwhile, studio photography gained popularity, with portrait studios opening in major cities, catering to the Indian elite who sought to immortalize their status and family heritage through photography. This era also saw the rise of illustrated journals and magazines that used photographs to reach a wider audience.
Post-independence, Indian photography underwent significant transformation. The newly independent nation experienced rapid social and political changes, which photographers keenly documented. Henri Cartier-Bresson's work during the independence and partition period remains iconic. Indian photojournalists like Sunil Janah and Homai Vyarawalla captured the essence of the nation's struggles and triumphs. Their work provided a visual narrative of India's journey from a British colony to a sovereign state.
The latter half of the 20th century saw Indian photographers gaining international recognition.
Raghu Rai emerged as a leading figure with his powerful photojournalism, capturing the diverse facets of Indian life. The period also marked a shift towards more artistic and experimental photography. Photographers like Raghubir Singh and
Dayanita Singh brought innovative approaches, blending traditional themes with contemporary techniques. This era laid the groundwork for a more diversified photographic practice in India.
With the advent of the 21st century and the digital revolution, photography in India became more accessible and democratized. Digital cameras and smartphones enabled a broader spectrum of people to engage with photography. Social media platforms like Instagram provided a global stage for Indian photographers to showcase their work. Contemporary photographers such as
Sohrab Hura, Bharat Sikka, and Vicky Roy are now pushing the boundaries of the medium, exploring new narratives and challenging traditional perspectives. Today, Indian photography is a dynamic and evolving field, reflecting the country's rich cultural tapestry and rapid modernization.
