A black and white visual feast

‘Learn To See – A Photographic Essay’ by veteran photographer Kala Bhushana L.E. Samararatne will be launched by Dr. D.B. Nihalsingha, at the Galle Face Hotel, Colombo on March 30 at 3 p.m.

A first of its kind publication, the book, a classic hard-cover coffee-table edition, is not only an enviable collector’s item for connoisseurs of art, but also an educational guide to aspiring and practising photographers. It contains 125 black and white picture reproductions done by Mr. Samararatne in a career of more than 50 years.

The publication includes articles by other eminent professionals. Well-known editor and writer Gaston de Rosayro has enhanced the tone of book with his enchanting captions.

While fellow photographer Panduka de Silva has been responsible for the co-ordination of the publication from its embryonic stage, its designer Gamini Mendis has conjured up an innovative format that adds to its appeal.

The publication provides camera enthusiasts with invaluable tips on how to visualize, capture and create a professional picture. It is also a compendium of Samararatne’s finest work in his long and illustrious professional career. Among them are personality portraits, scenic studies, historic news graphics and aerial images.

The book is published by Stamford Lake (Pvt) Ltd, a Singaporean company based in Colombo. The high technology printing by Lake House Printers has helped augment its quality. Lake House Bookshop is handling the book’s distribution.

The book will be on offer at a special promotional price at the launch.