Vintage Vision: Unveiling the Timeless Magic of Tikam Chand ji's 1860 Camera!

Preserving History, One Click at a Time, in the Streets of Jaipur

📢 Welcome to the latest edition of our STEM Newsletter! Get ready for an intriguing journey into the world of photography as we explore the captivating story of Tikam Chand ji, a photographer in Jaipur who has mastered the art of capturing moments with a vintage 1860 camera. Join us as we dive into the history, passion, and dedication that make Tikam Chand Ji's work truly exceptional.

📸 Preserving History, One Click at a Time

In an era dominated by high-tech DSLRs and smartphone cameras, Tikam Chand ji stands out as a beacon of tradition. Armed with a Carl Zeiss Jena box camera that has been passed down through generations, he roams the streets of Jaipur, clicking pictures of tourists outside the majestic Hawa Mahal. The camera itself, an antique relic from 1860, showcases the timeless beauty of photography and Tikam Chand ji's unwavering dedication to his craft.

🕰️ A Family Legacy

Photography runs deep in Tikam Chand ji's family. The camera was originally gifted to his grandfather, Pahari Lal, by a Maharaja of Jaipur, who recognized Pahari Lal's talent as the King's official photographer. Now, as a third-generation photographer, Tikam Chand ji proudly carries forward the ancestral lineage of skilled photographers, infusing every click with a rich heritage.

📽️ An Instagram Glimpse

Thanks to the power of social media, Maroof Umar (@maroofculmen) shared a captivating video that takes us behind the scenes of Tikam Chand ji's photography process. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Jaipur's bustling streets, the video showcases the meticulous setup of the vintage camera and the intriguing challenges associated with its maintenance. Despite its age, Tikam Chand ji's dedication to preserving this historical gem shines through.

@maroofculmen's post on Instagram

🔧 Mastering the Antique

The Carl Zeiss 1860 box camera is a true masterpiece, and Tikam Chand ji knows every nook and cranny of this magnificent device. From the darkroom where photos are developed to the fixer, developer, and film box, all compacted into a mammoth 20KG camera, Tikam Chand ji's comprehensive knowledge leaves us in awe. His commitment to maintaining and repairing this unique piece of history is a testament to his love for photography.

🗣️ A Deluge of Admiration

Maroof Umar's post on Instagram stirred up a storm of praise and adoration for Tikam Chand ji's captivating photograph. Users marveled at the vintage camera, with one playfully reminiscing about the bygone days with the phrase, "photo dhulne gai hai" (the photo has gone for a wash). The juxtaposition of old and new technologies did not go unnoticed, as another user pointed out the presence of a UPI QR code hanging from the camera, exclaiming, "How the old intermingles with the new!" The admiration continued as antique camera collectors expressed their appreciation for Tikam Chand ji's dedication in preserving the lost art of photography. They highlighted the unmatched aesthetic appeal of capturing photos with a 120mm film roll in early 1900s cameras, asserting that modern devices simply can't replicate that charm.

🌟 Capturing History, One Frame at a Time

Tikam Chand ji's passion for photography and his commitment to preserving the art form are truly inspiring. As we revel in the wonders of modern technology, let us not forget the foundations laid by visionaries like him. Through his lens, he bridges the gap between generations and reminds us of the immense joy that can be found in capturing moments, no matter the tools we use. We salute Tikam Chand ji for his unwavering dedication and