THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: For Nizam Ammas, a self-taught photographer, capturing the beauty of nature is a passion. An environmentalist, Nizam says, “I began my career in photography with a vintage Yashica 35 mm camera. I have not undergone any professional training.
The reference books from the Film Institute, Madras were my sole guide. It’s my passion for photography that lead me down this path.” This wildlife photographer also dabbles in production of short films and organises exhibitions to satiate his commitment towards the betterment of the society.
“More than minting money, my aim is to create social awareness among the mass with the help of my pictures,” he says.
According to him, professional photography has witnessed a sea change over the years. Most modern equipment and new softwares have enabled photographers to experiment.
At present, Nizam focuses on ‘Abstract Photography’, a novel method that’s gradually gaining precedence. “Termed an experimental and non-objective method, abstract is not popular among Indian photographers. However, it has a lot of followers abroad,” says Nizam.
One of his experiments in photography, revolves around abstract sand portrayals formed by tides along the beach. “Have you noticed such abstract portrayals? These images on sand along with streams and mosses depict the sad plight of our environment.
At times, these images symbolise our environment - the barren land, desert and trees being cut down,” says Nizam, who has been actively pursuing this passion along Shanghumugham, Varkala and Kovalam beaches. “One needs keen observational skills to identify the right form and combination because the picture might appear particularly different to an untrained eye,” he explains.
Nizam says his exhibitions are part of an effort to inform and educate the public about the need to protect our environment along with this new concept of photography. “I hope the government will extend financial support to conduct such exhibitions since they are highly expensive,” he says.
Nizam will be holding another exhibtion of his photographs at Kollam. The exhibition begins on Friday. Actor and MLA Mukesh will inaugurate the exhibition at 8 point Artcafe, Adventure Park, Ashramam at 9:30 am.