At a time when every bit of a movie, right from its first look, goes viral, there is a lot riding on a still photographer. To freeze the right frame is important not only while marketing the movie but also in giving the audience the flavour of what’s in store. Mahadevan Thampi knows this quite well. One of the popular still photographers of Mollywood, he has proven his talent in other industries too, like when he was a part of Kamal Hassan’s Vishwaroopam in 2013. Back from the sets of Prithviraj-starrer Adam Joan and Vimaanam, he talks about his craft.
From journalism to photography
Mahadevan Thampi says his interest was initially in painting, but later he discovered that his aesthetic sense suited photography. “The only reason I took up journalism was because the course had photography in it. I bought a camera during my first year in the college. In fact, the artist in me always admired colours, so I was interested in capturing images of myriad hues,” he says.
The photographer says his journey was a struggle. He dabbled in wildlife and press photography before venturing into the world of fashion. “After initial confusions, I took up fashion photography and it was through the mini-screen that I ventured into films. I worked as a still photographer on the sets of soaps like Veendum Jwaalayi, Nombarapoovu and Thadangal Paalayam before venturing into movies.
I assisted N L Balakrishnan before Shajil Obscura for three Shaji Kailas movies. I did my first independent project when I was just 17. However, it was Ivar Vivahitharaayal (2009) which brought me recognition,” he adds.The photoshoots Mahadevan Thampi did for the movie were highly noticed.
“Besides, the song ‘enikku paadan oru paatilundoru pennu’ was directed by me. I had many memorable moments on the sets and I was given complete freedom to study the script before the shoot,” he adds.
When Kollywood beckoned
Mahadevan Thampi has worked in two Tamil movies, including the latest Jeeva-starrer Sangili Bungili Kadhava Thorae. But, he still is in awe of Kamal Haasan and the beautiful experience that Viswaroopam was. “Kamal Haasan is synonymous to a university. Working with him was a lifetime experience. The Tamil industry treats us with respect. They have a special fondness for our movies and artists,” he adds.
Working with Prithviraj
Mahadevan Thampi considers working with Prithviraj a rewarding experience. “Though I worked with him in Pokkiri Raja, I got to know him better on the sets of Adam Joan and Vimaanam. Prithviraj has a deep knowledge about movies. He is a keen observer. If not for him, I wouldn’t have done the helicam shots for Adam Joan. He trusted me and gave me the confidence to take up the task. I believe that I have become a professional helicam operator, just because of him. Towards the end of the film, I got the latest model helicam from the producer,” he says.
Mahadevan Thampi’s ultimate dream is direction. He says he is preparing himself for the task and is waiting for the right time. But, the photographer has a penchant for wedding shoots as well.
“I did take a few celebrity weddings. This actually helps me adopt and experiment new techniques in photography and videography. So, I am never going to stop doing wedding shoots,” he says.
Direction his aim
Mahadevan Thampi says he is preparing himself for directing a movie and is waiting for the right time. But, the photographer has a penchant for wedding shoots as well. "This actually helps me adopt and experiment new techniques in photography and videography," he says.