Meet photographers who capture Palace moments

By Ganesh Anil

A single photograph can evoke thousands of memories. A picture taken at a beautiful location, in particular, becomes unforgettable. Tourist photographers play an important role in creating such cherished moments.

At the Mysore Palace, millions of visitors stand before the majestic structure and have their photographs clicked by tourist photographers, adding yet another treasure to their collection of memories.

No matter how advanced technology becomes, the reflection of the Palace captured in these images gives people a sense of contentment. Many photographers even say that with the blessings of Goddess Chamundeshwari, such moments keep the lamp of happiness glowing in their households.

Wherever people travel in the world, buying a souvenir is customary. Even if nothing is purchased, they make sure to take a photograph so the memory of the place remains eternal. These images become beautiful chapters in the story of life. Likewise, visitors to Mysore Palace carry home special moments created with the help of 17 dedicated tourist photographers who continue their work despite challenges of modern technology.

Attached to Palace Board

In the 1980s, with the cooperation of the Archaeology Department, permission was first granted to a few individuals to photograph tourists inside the Palace premises. Today, 17 photographers work under the Palace Board.

After the Taj Mahal in Agra, the most visited tourist monument in India, Mysore Palace is regarded as one of the country’s most popular destinations, attracting millions of visitors from across India and abroad.

During the Dasara festival, visitor numbers rise sharply. Tourist photographers identify the best spots within the Palace grounds, frame memorable shots, click photographs and quickly provide printed copies. The smiles on tourists’ faces bring deep satisfaction to these photographers.

From film rolls to digital cameras

In earlier days, cameras lacked today’s technological advancements. Photographers relied on roll cameras such as Pentax and SLR models to capture images. Keeping pace with changing times, they now use modern digital cameras.

Earlier, after taking photographs, photographers carefully recorded details in diaries, including the tourists’ attire, whether it was a group, couple or individual photo, along with addresses to send prints by post. Despite such effort, they earned only Rs. 12 per photograph. Today, with technology, even children take pictures with ease.

Toward the end of the roll-camera era, digital cameras made work easier. Previously, roll-camera photos were printed in postcard size and mailed. With digital technology and portable printers, photographers can now print a photograph within minutes and hand it directly to delighted tourists.

There was a time when families invited studio photographers to capture special occasions. Later, some bought personal cameras. Now, advanced mobile-phone cameras allow people of all ages to take photos instantly. High-end smartphones are even used for filmmaking, dealing a significant blow to traditional tourist photographers.

Before mobile photography, people ordered multiple printed copies. Today, many visitors prefer just one image transferred to their phones instead of printed photographs, creating new challenges for tourist photographers.

With dedication, these photographers continue to capture visitors alongside the Mysore Palace. By providing instant photographs, they help promote the Palace’s grandeur, while tourists carry these memories home to cherish for years, said T.S. Subramanya, Deputy Director, Mysore Palace Board.