On Tuesday, Moray House Trust hosted two top local photographers—Fidal Bassier and Nikhil Ramkarran.
While slides of their work was shown, the photographers spoke on what it is they do. One captures the essence of a wedding and the other the essence of what it is to be Guyanese, Moray House Trust said.
Bassier, not a typical wedding photographer, explained that he is always looking for the unusual, off guard moment: a bride having her make up done, or waiting to get out of a car. Often there are no people in the picture – just the rings on a prayer book or an exquisite bouquet, the release said.
Ramkarran presented photographs focused on the streets and markets of downtown Georgetown and the people doing business there: a market vendor, a bus driver, a tout, or a man simply standing by a wall, umbrella in hand.
According to the release, Ramkarran said he was attempting to capture not only the individuality of the people but also their essential “Guyanese-ness”.
During a discussion after the slide shows, questions were raised about cameras used and the ethics of photoshopping.
The release said Ramkarran mentioned that this year he has taken many photographs with his phone camera. There was also a conversation on subject matter in the context of class and the appropriate approach to strangers who may not always feel comfortable being in front of the lens.
Moray House Trust said the event was one of several it was organising as part of its mission to foster national pride in Guyana’s diverse heritage and to enable all forms of artistic expression.
