History of srilankan photography.

 The History of Photography in Sri Lanka: A Journey Through the Lens

Photography in Sri Lanka has a rich and fascinating history, deeply intertwined with the island’s colonial past, cultural transitions, and modern artistic evolution. From black-and-white portraits taken during the British colonial era to vibrant digital art in today’s creative circles, the Sri Lankan photographic journey reflects the country's diverse identity.

Colonial Beginnings

Photography was introduced to Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) in the mid-19th century, during the British colonial period. The earliest photographic processes, such as daguerreotypes and calotypes, were brought by European settlers and visitors. These early photographs primarily documented landscapes, colonial architecture, and portraits of British officials. One of the earliest known photographs of Ceylon dates back to the 1850s.

Commercial photography began to grow by the 1860s. Studios were established in cities like Colombo, Galle, and Kandy. Prominent colonial photographers like Skeen & Co. and Plate & Co. became known for their studio portraits and scenic photographs, many of which were collected as souvenirs or sent abroad as postcards.

The Rise of Local Photographers

As photography became more accessible, local photographers started to emerge. By the early 20th century, Sri Lankan photographers were not only mastering the technical aspects but also exploring photography as a medium of expression and cultural documentation. Photographers like Lionel Wendt, a pivotal figure in Sri Lankan art, combined photography with modernist influences and helped to shape a uniquely Sri Lankan aesthetic in the 1930s.

Wendt’s work captured the lives, landscapes, and traditions of Ceylon with a sense of depth and artistry that set a new standard. He, along with members of the Colombo '43 Group, helped elevate photography to a respected form of visual art in the country.

Post-Independence Developments

After gaining independence in 1948, Sri Lanka saw a new wave of documentary and journalistic photography. The post-colonial era brought social and political changes, which were often reflected through the lenses of emerging photographers. Events like the 1971 insurrection and the civil war that began in the 1980s became subjects of critical photojournalism.

During this time, newspapers and magazines became important platforms for photography, with many photojournalists documenting the everyday realities, struggles, and resilience of Sri Lankan people.

Digital Age and Modern Trends

With the rise of digital photography in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the medium became more democratized. The introduction of smartphones and social media platforms further accelerated this shift, allowing a new generation of photographers to emerge.

Today, Sri Lanka has a vibrant photography scene, spanning wedding photography, street photography, fashion, wildlife, and conceptual art. Organizations like the Photographic Society of Sri Lanka (PSSL) continue to promote photographic excellence through exhibitions, workshops, and competitions.

Contemporary photographers such as Shantha Abeywickrama, Sebastian Posingis, and Kanchana Thalpawila are gaining international recognition, showcasing Sri Lankan culture and stories to a global audience.

Conclusion

From colonial-era sepia prints to modern digital storytelling, photography in Sri Lanka has evolved into a powerful art form that captures the soul of a nation. Whether it's the misty highlands of Nuwara Eliya, the vibrant streets of Colombo, or the quiet resilience of rural life, the Sri Lankan photographic journey is as diverse and dynamic as the island itself.