On the eve of World Photography Day, renowned Nagpur-based photographer Sadanand Joshi sat down with ‘The Hitavada’ for a heartfelt conversation, sharing stories that span over six decades behind the camera. His words carried not just lessons about photography but also reflections on life, humanity and memories that live forever in frames. “When I first saw the exhibition ‘Family of Man’ at Jehangir Art Gallery, I was euphoric,” he recalled with a smile. “The photographs overwhelmed me. That was the moment I decided, “I want to make people feel the same wonder I felt.” With that, a young Joshi picked up his first camera, a Kodak Brownie, and began a journey in 1962 that would define his life. Joshi never shies away from crediting others for his growth.

 

“I would show my photographs to senior photographers, ask for suggestions, and then immediately implement them. That was my education. Every frame taught me something new.” Talking about his inclination, Joshi said, “I was always drawn to Human Photography. Humans have conquered almost everything, yet we still fail to understand one another. Every human expression, every moment of daily life, there’s a story there. I believe human life is the most fascinating subject to capture.” As he spoke, he leaned back and demonstrated his own technique. “Always lean on something for balance, have a clear vision of what you want to capture, and when the moment occurs, just ‘click’.” When asked about his favourite photograph, his face lit up with childlike joy.

 

“It is a picture of a mother and her son. I was travelling by bus when I saw them walking. The boy was dragging a toy he had built with pride, while the mother carried a small pouch and an earthen pot, perfectly balanced. At one point, she gently placed her hand on his head. It was such a simple act, but so profound. Without saying a word, she was expressing her love and support. That’s the photograph I have cherished all my life.” To Joshi, a perfect photograph is one that moves the viewer. “It should instantly invoke a feeling, a memory, or a story from their own life. That is when a photograph becomes eternal.” Joshi believes technology has changed photography, but its essence remains the same. “Earlier, we had to carefully manage exposure, aperture, composition and lighting.

 

Now, cameras are so advanced that only composition and lighting really need attention. I have accepted technology, and I tell youngsters, 'Start with your phone cameras.' Don’t rush to buy expensive gear. Learn the craft first. Observe, ask questions, and practise. Phones are handy and capable; what matters most is the eye behind the lens.” Offering his golden rule, Joshi explained, “Draw two vertical and two horizontal lines in your mind. Place the subject where the lines intersect. That’s how composition enhances impact. And then, let the light do its magic.” For aspiring photographers celebrating World Photography Day, his advice is simple yet profound: “Capture the moments that tell a story. Don’t just click a photo; capture a memory. Photography is not about equipment; it is about emotion.” And as Joshi says this, his eyes twinkle with the same wonder he once felt as a young boy at an exhibition.