All of us have special moments we want to revisit. While most of us carry the memories in our hearts and minds, photographs help a lot of us capture the moment forever.

“I love looking at photographs from my childhood and reliving the memories,” Amanda Gunathilake,28, told The Daily Morning Brunch. “I have so many memories with my friends and old school boyfriends and the photographs I have kept the memories alive.”

From nature photography to street photography and even event photography, the art of capturing a picture tells a story that words sometimes cannot express.

In order to cherish the value of a photograph, World Photography Day is celebrated on the 19 August and is dedicated to recognizing the craft and dedication of photographers all across the globe. In order to recognise the art in all its glory, we spoke to some photographers in Sri Lanka who have shown dedication to their craft.

A passion for pictures

Many photographers often recognise their passion for capturing images and dedicate themselves towards perfecting a single shot.

“I didn’t really get into photography with the intention of becoming a photographer,” street photographer Nazly Ahmed said. “What started as a hobby to escape from my desk job gradually became something more.”

Ahmed said that discovering photography was a gradual process that helped him tell the stories of a city and its people.

“Over time I realised I wasn’t taking photographs; I was documenting a city that was constantly changing,” Ahmed said. 

Meanwhile, amateur photographers also noted the importance of doing what you love, even in the face of adversity.

“I started off taking photographs of my hikes,” amateur photographer Paul Peters, said. “I love traveling and discovering nature and photography is a great way to express your passion.”

Peters said that while he is not a professional photographer, his passion for capturing images has helped him discover who he is.

“Photography has taught me so much about myself and I’m grateful,” he said. “Even if I’m just getting started.”

A challenging market

While photography has an unique value, it is not without its challenges.

“Photography in Sri Lanka is an incredibly saturated and price sensitive industry,” photographer Ushan Gunasekara said. “Unfortunately, a lot of clients tend to make decisions based on price, sometimes regardless of the difference in quality.”

Pricing is often a challenge many photographers face.

“You can have a dozen photographers offering broadly different services, but at various price points,” Gunasekara said. “That makes it challenging to communicate the value of your work and stand apart based on your creativity and quality rather than simply competing on price.”

Many photographers said that while the profession has unique challenges like getting the correct camera equipment and getting people to recognise its value.

“Like any artistic profession, people look at photography and say it’s just a hobby,” Peters said. “And while I do have a full time job, it is sad to see my passion being taken for granted.”

Peters said that he hopes that photography gets the attention and recognition it deserves.

The rewards amidst the challenges

While challenges exist, many photographers state that the modern climate provides them with so many opportunities to showcase their work.

“One of the biggest benefits today is that there are so many tools and opportunities available to photographers more than ever,” Ahmed said.

He noted that tools such as artificial intelligence and smartphones are changing the landscape of traditional photography and the way we view the market.

“Technology keeps evolving, but having a unique perspective and something meaningful to say through your work is still what ultimately matters,” he said.

Finding your own perspective

As photography continues to evolve, photographers said that developing a unique style is more important than simply keeping up with the latest trends.

Gunasekara believes photographers should focus on their own progress rather than constantly comparing themselves with others in the industry.

“Your best competitor is yourself,” Gunasekara said. “Focus on building your own body of work rather than constantly comparing yourself to what everyone else is doing. Your journey, your style and your growth are what matter.”

He said that photographers should also avoid becoming too focused on purchasing the newest equipment or following popular brands.

“And don’t get caught up in the rat race of constantly chasing the newest gear or the most popular brand,” Gunasekara said. “The best camera is ultimately the one that works for you. Master what you have, create good work with it, and let the work speak for itself.”

For photographers, developing a personal style can take years and often comes through experimenting, making mistakes and learning from each photograph.

More than just a photograph

Despite the challenges, photographers said that the value of photography goes beyond the equipment, technical skills or commercial side of the industry.

For Peters, photography continues to be a way of documenting his experiences and appreciating the world around him.

“Sometimes you take a photograph without realizing how important it will become later,” Peters said. “Years from now, you can look at that image and remember exactly how you felt.”

As technology continues to change photography, the emotions and stories behind an image remain at its heart. Whether capturing a changing city, a beautiful landscape or a special moment with loved ones, photography continues to give people a way to preserve memories and tell stories that can last for generations.