World Photography Day
Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, August 23, 2024
World Photography Day is an annual, worldwide celebration of the art, craft, science, and history of photography. It offers a moment for people around the globe to reflect on the profound impact of photography on our lives.
What began as a niche hobby for a few has transformed into a universal medium that transcends language, culture, and geography. In 2024, the significance of this day has never been more relevant, as photography continues to shape our perceptions, document history, and foster connections in an increasingly digital world.
This year, World Photography Day took place on Monday, August 19, 2024 as part of a two week celebration from August 12 to August 26, 2024.
Capturing ‘an entire day’
This year, World Photography Day 2024 embraces the theme “An Entire Day.” With over eight billion individuals inhabiting Earth, the combined human experience in a 24-hour period totals more than 20 million years.
The theme invites photographers around the globe to capture the essence of a single day, exploring the vast array of human experiences that unfold from dawn to dusk. From the mundane to the extraordinary, every moment in a day contributes to the shared narrative of humanity.
The theme encourages photographers to highlight the diversity of daily life, whether it be a bustling city morning, a quiet afternoon in the countryside, or an evening celebration. By focusing on a single day, photographers are challenged to find beauty and meaning in the ordinary, emphasising that every day is a story worth telling.
About World Photography Day
World Photography Day commemorates the invention of the daguerreotype, a photographic process developed by Louis Daguerre and Joseph Nicéphore Niépce in 1837. The French government announced the daguerreotype as a “gift to the world” on August 19, 1839, marking the birth of modern photography.
Over the years, photography evolved from a complex and expensive craft into an accessible and popular art form, thanks to technological advancements and the rise of digital cameras and smartphones.
Today, World Photography Day is not just a celebration of the art and science of photography but also a reminder of the power of images to tell stories, evoke emotions, and inspire change. It is a day that encourages both professional photographers and amateurs to share their work and reflect on how photography has enriched their lives.
Renowned photographer Steve McCurry, known for his iconic “Afghan Girl” image, emphasised the universal appeal of photography and said, “Photography is a universal language, a way of storytelling that transcends borders and cultures. On World Photography Day, we are reminded of the incredible power of an image to convey emotion, provoke thought, and connect us all.”
Photography in today’s society
In 2024, photography plays a more significant role in society than ever before. With the proliferation of social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest, millions of people share images daily, documenting their lives, surroundings, and experiences. Photography has become an essential tool for communication, allowing individuals to express themselves and connect with others across the globe.
Prominent photography exhibitions, both online and offline, have been organised globally to celebrate this year’s theme. From the bustling streets of New York to the serene landscapes of Kyoto, photographers are contributing to a worldwide visual dialogue that explores the rich tapestry of a single day in human existence.
Renowned galleries such as the Louvre in Paris and the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC, are hosting special exhibitions that delve into how a single day can be captured in all its complexity and beauty.
Public participation
As part of the global celebrations, numerous events and workshops have been organised, encouraging people to pick up their cameras and participate in the art of photography. One of the most significant events this year is the World Photography Day Global Contest, which has attracted thousands of entries from amateur and professional photographers alike. The contest challenges participants to submit images that capture the essence of “An entire day,” with winners to be announced later this week.
Public enthusiasm for World Photography Day has been overwhelming. Ashok Kochhar, a renowned photographer from India who is well known in the Hamilton photography community for his workshops and philanthropic projects, shared his thoughts and said, “Photography is more than just taking pictures. It is about capturing moments that would otherwise be forgotten. World Photography Day reminds us of the importance of preserving these memories, especially in a world that is changing so rapidly.”
Mr Kochhar further emphasised the role of photography in cultural exchange and said, “Through my lens, I have been able to share stories from the streets of Varanasi with people who have never been to India. It is amazing how a single photo can convey so much about a place, a culture, or a moment in time.”
The Future of Photography
As we look to the future, it is clear that photography will continue to evolve and adapt to new technologies and trends. The advent of AI-driven image processing, augmented reality, and 3D photography is pushing the boundaries of what is possible, allowing photographers to explore new creative avenues.
However, amidst these technological advancements, the essence of photography remains unchanged. It is about capturing moments and telling stories that resonate with people on a deep, emotional level. World Photography Day 2024 serves as a reminder of this enduring power, encouraging us all to pick up our cameras and look at the world through a new lens—one that embraces diversity, celebrates creativity, and honours the art of visual storytelling.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
