THE Myanmar Photographic Society, in accordance with the motto “Let the world recognize us through the art of photography,” continues to participate in international photography competitions and exhibitions. Meanwhile, foreign countries tend to show special interest in artistic photographs that portray the natural beauty of traditional culture and rural landscapes, rather than those created using advanced technological methods.
The Myanmar Photographic Society has its motto “Let the world recognize us through the art of photography” for a long time. Last month, Myanmar, South Africa, and Indonesia submitted nature photographs to FIAP as part of a competition. There are also many other international competitions. In October, the Myanmar Photographic Society will attend a cultural photography exhibition in China. Countries around the world usually give awards to photos that show culture and tradition, more than the photos taken with modern technology, like underwater or aerial shots. For example, they are very interested in photos of Bagan pagodas and the Thingyan Water Festival. The Myanmar Photographic Society is always trying to show the world Myanmar’s natural beauty, ancient culture, and traditional customs,” said U Than Tun Oo, chairman of the society.
The Myanmar Photographic Society is a member of FIAP (The International Federation of Photographic Art), comprising over 100 member states, and it organized the 1st Myanmar International Photography Salon in 2018. It competes in international photo exhibitions and competitions every year, and it highlights the natural beauty, culture and traditions of ethnic people, and there are fewer photo submissions in the underwater and aerial photography categories, as they require expensive technology.
“I am currently photographing and documenting the lives and lifestyles of the Salon people. We can say it is a detailed documentary of a specific ethnic group. Underwater photography usually draws international interest. However, when it comes to artistic recognition, the conceptual photography category often gets more attention. Underwater photography is great for adventure and exploration. As for me, as I live near the sea, I enjoy both types of photography,” said photographer Ko Pyi Soe Tun (artist).
The Myanmar Photographic Society was established as Rangoon Photographic Society on 21 November 1950. In 1955, it changed to the Myanmar Photographic Society and opened an office at the lower block of 35th Street in Yangon in 1963. It celebrated its 50th anniversary event, and marked its 75th anniversary with the 58th Myanmar National Photography Art Exhibition. This year, the exhibition was held from 13 to 16 March at Sule Square. — Thitsa (MNA)/ KTZH
