Underlining the interdependence of tourism and photography, Esha Chaudhuri interacts with Award-winning travel photographer, Chinamrak W Momin and his many adventures.
What is tourism even without a visual tickle? Going by the book, all travelogues, travel magazines and brochures encapsulate the essence of a photo album illustrating the picturesque side to a place to attract sizable crowds. This, in an age of social media, video blogging and travel pages in the digital space only amplifies the very same notion. This stance is further echoed by celebrated photographer, Chinamrak W Momin (32), whose work has been recognised with accolades such as the Meghalaya Tourism Photography Award and the Northeast Photography Award, in collaboration with Incredible India. Born and raised in Shillong, Momin’s relationship with photography is beyond a mere job as it is his devotion towards the arts, a way to connect with people and the world around him. In his interaction with Sunday Shillong, Momin shares insights into his genre of photography, as a crucial tool for tourism and some less frequented places in pristine Meghalaya.
Click and Flash
As people live vicariously through photographs, a display of varied angles and activities from a place bolsters the chances of people imagining themselves there and engaging in similar activities. Thereby, increasing the possibility of attracting tourists in a certain destination. Acknowledging this, Momin says, “Photography and Tourism is a medium to attract more travellers around the world, as many travel destinations portray the beauty of their locations through photographs aiming to attract more travellers to visit their destinations.”
Interacting with him on his many travel destinations, especially those within the state, he was asked how has his skills and photography has enhanced the appeal of a place, to which he answers, “Photos can aid in attracting travellers to discover a source and an idea of visiting a particular place, especially if it creates a story of going there. I once visited Mawryngkhang in East Khasi Hills, also known as the scariest trek in Meghalaya, and after uploading those photos with the same caption, I received queries from multiple people asking me about my experience and how they can reach there. So, in this way I believe that pictures say it all by creating a community.”
Momin who enjoys travel photography says “Travel photography brings me happiness and also allows me to enjoy the surroundings, meet new people, learn their cultures, customs and history.”
Momin does not have any one favourite photography destination as he believes that one weaves their own stories irrespective of the place. However, on recommending Top 5 travel spots in the state, an enthusiastic Momin says, “I would suggest travellers to visit Chidambong in East Garo Hills, Rongchong in Wageasi, North Garo Hills, Daribok in West Garo Hills famous for oranges, Kynshi, a popular spot for sunrise, Rongon in East Garo Hills , Nongriat in East Khasi Hills, Wahniangleng in East Khasi Hills, and Mawryngkhang in East Khasi Hills among many others.”
Previous reports have hailed Momin’s works as one that promotes the Garo community and its cultural heritage. On asking how he captures that, he replies, “I would like to mention here that tourism in the Garo hills is still lagging behind. Through my lenses, I try my best to promote heritage sites not only in Garo Hills but also in Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills, but yes, my focus lies in lesser known places in the Garo Hills because for instance, most of the people don’t know where the First Baptist Church located is located in Garo Hills. In this way, I try my level best to capture those images and present them to the world.”
Convinced that photography is one of the most important elements that can make tourism better, ultimately capturing compelling images goes a long way in touristic enthrallment.
Technically speaking
Photography is an artform deeply embedded in technical knowhow as well as an imaginative vision. Therefore, it’s not surprising that photographers are always at the right time and right place since their commitment to their end goal is paramount. Sharing his style and trusted genre in photography, Momin says, “As a photophile, I would say that the love for creating memories only needs time, so I divide my timings to capture those precious moments. My personal interests lie in fine arts, travel and wildlife.”
In the age of social media and popular photography platforms, it can be challenging times for professionals to distinguish themselves from amateurs. At a time when phone cameras perform and deliver immaculate results, Momin believes that professional photography still stands strong ground. He says, “I always thought that the distinction between the two is not significant because practice makes a person perfect. But later, after receiving formal training, I realise that a person, even though creative, artistic, passionate, will have to learn some technicality. A professional will always have an edge with storytelling through their images.”
He further adds, “In today’s era, technology has become more advanced and is quite challenging where the idea or creativity we put in can be easily plagiarised or even downloaded by others. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook offer us a space to showcase our creativity around the world but the output is very little in terms of earnings as well as dangers of plagiarism. In my opinion, instead of focusing on social media, an exhibition or a travel book is a better idea.”
Inspired after meeting renowned travel photographer, (L) Peter E. Thangkhiew, Founder of Discover Meghalaya, Momin says he was the linchpin behind his career choice and mentorship all throughout. “His works inspired me as his hardwork and dedication for his images were a testament to that. He constantly gave me advice and suggestions on seeing my capability and interest in the field and thereby began in 2015 by the official name of CWPhotography Shillong.”
A staunch believer in the philosophy that photography is another form of storytelling, Momin is determined to create his own style of photography through modes of precision and focus that formulate into a minimal and meaningful pictorial statement. As a recipient of many prestigious accolades, Momin feels humbled and trusts in the wisdom that learning is lifelong and he has a long way to go.
