Welcome to the exclusive page for “Exploration,” a unique coffee table book showcasing breathtaking photographs that celebrate the diverse beauty of the world. Created by acclaimed photographers Deb Lahiri and Raj Sarkar, this book captures raw human emotions, cultural nuances, and captivating moments from India and across the globe. The book is published by Retro Kolkata.
“Exploration” is more than just a collection of images; it’s a visual narrative that reflects the essence of humanity and the world. Featuring a diverse collection of photographs, this book offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, architectural wonders, and human stories that transcend borders. The inclusion of a special section with 100 black-and-white photographs provides a timeless perspective of the world’s soul, making this book a visual masterpiece.
The foreword for “Exploration” has been penned by the legendary Magnum photographer and Padmashree award winner, Shri Raghu Rai, whose profound insights add unparalleled depth and artistic perspective to this book.
Renowned documentary photographer Manish Khattry introduces the authors with an engaging note, offering readers a deeper understanding of their creative journey. This section is complemented by a special photograph of Mr. Khattry with the authors, Deb Lahiri and Raj Sarkar.
In the world of photography, there are few who can truly capture the essence of life as it unfolds in the streets and corners of our cities. Raj Sarkar and Deb Lahiri are two such remarkable artists. Their dedication to their craft, coupled with an innate ability to see the extraordinary in the ordinary, sets them apart as photographers of immense talent and vision.
Raj, with his boundless energy and passion for street photography, has not only honed his skills to perfection but has also become a beacon of inspiration for many aspiring photographers. His work, characterized by its emotional
depth and authenticity, speaks to the human condition in ways that are both powerful and subtle. Whether through his insightful articles or the numerous workshops and presentations he conducts, Raj’s contributions to the photographic community are invaluable.
Deb, on the other hand, brings a unique perspective to his work, blending his deep love for travel and human interaction with his keen eye for detail
His journey as a self-taught photographer is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence. Deb's ability to capture the soul of his subjects, whether in the hustle of the streets or the serenity of nature, is truly awe-inspiring. Through the Window Photography School, Deb has nurtured and guided countless photographers, sharing his knowledge and passion with the next generation.
Together, Raj and Deb have created a body of work that not only showcases their individual talents but also highlights the diverse beauty of life around us. It is an honour to be a part of their journey and to witness their continued growth as artists and educators.
Their photographs, presented in this book, are more than just images; they are windows into the lives and stories of the people they encounter, told with grace, empathy, and a profound understanding of the world.
As you turn the pages of this book, may you see the world through Raj and Deb’s eyes, and may their work inspire you to look deeper, to see more, and to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us all.
Manish Khattry
Award-Winning Documentary Photographer, Art Educator & Cultural Chronicler, Varanasi
Artistic Excellence: High-quality, professionally curated photographs that highlight the world’s extraordinary beauty.
Perfect for Art Enthusiasts: A stunning addition to coffee tables, personal libraries, or professional spaces.
Cultural Insights: A rich tapestry of traditional and contemporary humanity.
Inspiration for Travelers: Discover awe-inspiring destinations and untold stories.
Timeless Appeal: Black-and-white photography section that resonates with timeless artistic elegance.
“Exploration” was unveiled at the iconic Oxford Book Store in Kolkata by celebrated filmmakers Mr. Gauta Ghosh and Prof. Ashoke Viswanathan. This prestigious event received extensive media coverage, including a feature in Kolkata’s leading daily newspaper, The Telegraph.
“WHATSUP
RAJ SARKAR AND DEB LAHIRI’S EXPLORATION PRESENTS AN ENTRANCING COLLECTION OF STREET PHOTOGRAPHS
Raj Sarkar and DebLahiri’s coffee table book Exploration is a testament to their skills in capturing the extraordinary in ordinary and mundane frames. The cover picture of the book is a great pull and once you flip through the pages, the world of Sarkar and Lahiri fills you with awe. The book’s foreword is by legendary lensman Raghu Rai, who has lauded the duo’s acumen. Its launch was an equally star-studded affair with maverick filmmaker Goutam Ghose marking his attendance and staying throughout the book discussion.
Talking about his technique of selecting a frame and the significance Goutam Ghose poses with the photography book, Exploration of it, Ghose said: “Even when I had no films inside the camera I used to go through the viewfinder and look at the world. I think this is very important; how you choose your space is your perception. Space means the objects you like and don’t like. You will find great moments in this book.” The book is a selection of around 100 photographs captured in the city and outside. It takes the viewer on a journey and makes them taste, hear and see many Indian cities from a close range.
Moderator Ashoke Viswanathan started off by explaining street photography to the audience at Oxford Bookstore. He said: "Street photography means you are taking the photograph without any external help. There is no use of any
external element, there is no staging or arranging the character. It's a moment frozen in time."
With Ghose and Viswanathan at the launch, the evening was peppered with references of great filmmakers, including the sequence of Gordon Willis shooting Mia Farrow.
Lahiri's photographs tell a story and nudges you to stay hungry for more. Talking about his technique, Lahiri said: "I always try to tell a story with my photographs. So Instantly I try to freeze the moment in the story. Just like in films where there are main characters and also
supporting characters who are acting in silence, I try to join the dots and tell a story."
Sarkar threw light on his technique of melding with the scene, becoming an insider from an outsider. He said: "The first thing I do is I try to understand the ambience because I don't know what happened there before I arrived. There might have been a tense environment, an incident, or a murder. So I need to submerge myself in the environment before taking out the camera. When I am one of them then only will I be able to get a candid shot."
Farah Khatoon
Pictures courtesy: Ahava Readers' and Writers' Club
“Exploration” received an exclusive invitation to the prestigious Livorno Photo Meeting 2024 in Italy. On November 17th, 2024, the authors, Deb Lahiri and Raj Sarkar, showcased the book and delivered a captivating presentation about the images and their creative journey. The event featured an interactive interview session, during which photographs from “Exploration” were displayed on a giant screen, earning resounding applause from the European audience.
This recognition not only celebrated the artistry of the book but also led to an enthusiastic reception, with a significant number of copies being sold immediately after the program. The event underscored the global appeal of “Exploration” and its ability to connect with diverse audiences.
Bring the beauty and emotions of the world into your home with “Exploration.” This coffee table book is an ideal gift for photography enthusiasts, art lovers, and anyone who appreciates the diversity of global cultures.
Available Now:
Price: INR Rs.2000/-
Format: Hardbound Coffee Table Book
Shipping: Pan-India and International
Raj Sarkar, a Kolkata-based street photographer and educator, passionately explores the endless possibilities of street photography, focusing on capturing fleeting emotions and actions of individuals, preserving them in time through his lens.
Beyond his own practice, Raj shares his expertise through numerous workshops on street photography and delivered insightful presentations and lectures at institutions like IIM, St. Xavier’s College, and Union Chapel School. His contributions extend to curating various exhibitions showcasing the talents of fellow photographers and judging in numerous
photography competitions. His expertise also covers insightful reviews of various gadgets, particularly for Fujifilm X series camera and X series lenses.
Raj has earned impressive accolades in contests like the International Pushkar Mela Contest and Garuda World Photo Contest and the HIPA. His work has been exhibited worldwide, captivating audiences with its authenticity and emotional depth. Raj’s insightful articles have been published in prestigious magazines and websites like Fujilove Street Photography Magazine (USA), View Find, APF Magazine, Smart Photography, Better Photography, Asian Photography, Chiiz magazine, Saveus, 121 clicks and National Geographic. Additionally, his innovative compositions serve as educational materials for aspiring photographers.
As a dedicated traveler, Raj seeks new photographic opportunities globally and recently served as a judge at the Livorno Street Photography Festival in Italy (2023), reinforcing his respected status in the international photography community.
Deb Lahiri, hailing from the vibrant city of Kolkata, is a renowned street and documentary photographer who fully embraced photography during the digital revolution in 2009-10. Despite a busy professional life, photography became a central pursuit in his creative journey.
Recognized in national and international platforms, including National Geographic, Deb’s talent is evident in prestigious publications like Better Photography, Asian Photography, Smart Photography, TOI, ABP, 121Clicks and more.
Self-taught, Deb immersed himself in books, magazines, and online tutorials, drawing inspiration
from both obscure and celebrated photographers globally. His deep passion for travel, nature, and human interactions is reflected in his work, capturing diverse facets of human existence and the world's beauty with each shutter click.
Beyond photography, Deb is an esteemed educator, founding the acclaimed Window Photography School, as the institution's guiding force guiding aspiring photographers to artistic growth. His works adorn prestigious galleries nationally and internationally, solidifying his status as a luminary in the field of photography.
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