The recent release of ViewFinder, authored by the veteran photojournalist Sir Jagdish Yadav, marks a significant milestone in the history of Indian journalism. Published by IIP Academy in collaboration with Manak Publications, this book provides a window into over 40 years of rich, diverse experiences that Sir Jagdish Yadav lived through his lens. ViewFinder is not just a book it is a vivid documentation of history, blending personal stories, critical moments, and timeless images, all captured by Yadav in his journey as a photojournalist.
A Journey Told Through the Lens of Experience
The stories in ViewFinder are an enthralling combination of historical relevance and personal insights. Through decades of covering political events and cultural shifts, Sir Jagdish Yadav has encountered many of India’s most powerful figures, capturing them in unguarded, human moments that transcend their public personas. One of the most memorable anecdotes in the book involves his interaction with Indira Gandhi during a photoshoot where, noticing Yadav’s hesitation, she graciously asked, ‘What’s the problem?’ to which Yadav explained his need for a few more seconds due to working with cut films instead of a full roll.
Another memorable story comes from his encounter with Rajiv Gandhi. Yadav recalls Gandhi’s concern for his safety as he attempted to take photos from a moving train. ‘I will hand over your camera. Otherwise, you might get hurt, and the camera could be damaged,‘ Gandhi said, displaying both his attentiveness and humility.
In addition to politicians, Yadav shares gripping moments from his time photographing the infamous Phoolan Devi, capturing a powerful shot of her seated by a bonfire, flanked by her gang members. His ability to blend into high stakes environments and capture compelling, human narratives is a recurring theme throughout his career.
An Essential Guide for Photography Enthusiasts and Professionals
The collaboration with IIP Academy and Manak Publications has made this book not only a documentation of history but also a treasure trove for aspiring photographers. ViewFinder offers a unique learning experience for students and enthusiasts alike, as it dives deep into the technical and emotional aspects of photojournalism. The book goes beyond just images; it teaches the art of patience, the importance of timing, and the unspoken rules of interaction with subjects.
From Mahendra Singh Tikait, who whispered instructions to Yadav during a farmer’s protest to highlight a specific community in his photographs, to Lalu Prasad, who playfully warned, Turn off the camera, or you’ll end up using the photo somewhere elsethese are lessons not just in photography but in the delicate dance of ethics, respect, and storytelling.
For young photographers, ViewFinder serves as a profound motivational tool. Sir Jagdish Yadav’s stories of persistence, innovation, and capturing the essence of his subjects provide invaluable lessons. Aspiring photojournalists can learn from his meticulous approach to work, as seen when he photographed Mamta Banerjee, who humbly refused food from the pantry staff during a railway journey, opting instead to eat from her own tiffin box. It’s these small, humanizing moments that make his photography so impactful and relatable.
A Profound Contribution to Journalism
The impact of photojournalism in shaping public opinion is undeniable, and Sir Jagdish Yadav’s work stands as testament to that fact. ‘ViewFinder’ brings into focus how a photograph can often tell the entire story in a single frame, conveying emotions and narratives that words sometimes fail to express. His experience with Chandra Shekhar, who loudly declared, ‘I am betrayed,’ during a political meeting, is one such moment where Yadav’s ability to capture raw emotion shines through.
The role of photography in journalism, as discussed in ‘ViewFinder’, is not just about documenting events but about shaping perspectives, sparking conversations, and sometimes, even challenging the status quo. Yadav’s photographs of political figures like VP Singh and social icons like Phoolan Devi reveal the profound impact photography has in presenting history in real time. The images he has taken over the years have helped form the public’s understanding of significant socio political events in India.
Interesting Stories and Timeless Lessons
Throughout ‘ViewFinder’, readers are treated to an array of fascinating stories, such as Phoolan Devi’s iconic portrait around a bonfire, a defining moment in Indian photography, or Mahendra Singh Tikait’s strategic whisper to ensure a particular narrative is shared through Yadav’s photographs. The book also includes anecdotes like Lalu Prasad’s humorous request to turn off the camera as he adjusted his wife’s saree, and Chandra Shekhar’s candid confession of feeling betrayed during a political upheaval.
These captivating stories, combined with the factual insights provided about the role of photography in journalism, offer readers an enriching experience. They remind us that behind every historic photograph is not just a person with a camera but a storyteller who seeks to capture the soul of the moment.
The Legacy of ViewFinder
ViewFinder is more than a book it is a legacy. It is a reflection of Sir Jagdish Yadav’s contribution to photojournalism and the larger world of media. His candid anecdotes with the most powerful people in India are paired with his technical and artistic expertise, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in photography, journalism, or the art of storytelling.
Published by IIP Academy and Manak Publications, this book is a powerful resource for anyone looking to dive into the world of photojournalism. The collaboration underscores the book’s significance as a tool for both learning and inspiration.
In conclusion, ViewFinder is not just a chronicle of a celebrated photojournalist’s life but a powerful narrative that captures the essence of an era. Through the lens of Sir Jagdish Yadav, readers are invited to witness history unfold, learn the art of storytelling through photography, and gain insights into the ethical and professional challenges faced by photojournalists. The release of this book marks a major milestone in Indian photojournalism and will undoubtedly inspire generations of photographers to come.
