I worked as a still photographer for K Balachander’s Punnagai Mannan and will always cherish the experience. KB sir always believes in giving plenty of screen space for all characters, and that was the case in this film too. This picture is from the Kaalam Kaalamaaga Vaazhum song.
I always say Kamal Haasan is the best subject for any photographer because of his involvement in, and understanding of the process. Even before I placed the camera in front of him, he would know the kind of shot I was going to take.
Kamal himself clicks good pictures, and I have seen them. At that time, not even professional photographers were exposed to all the different techniques and the latest cameras, whereas Kamal had them all. Name a camera, and he’d have it.
He has a childlike enthusiasm for learning, which has, in turn, motivated me to come up with unique shots every time.
I study the artistes for some time to see how they emote, and shoot accordingly. There are very few artistes who can sustain a close-up, and Kamal is one of them. He has expressive eyes; so obviously, my focus was there. Revathy also is a terrific artiste.
She can remain in focus without ever making it monotonous. This photograph, with both of them, was always going to be a winner.
(The photographer has taken stills for more than 500 films over the last three decades.)
Source: The New Indian Express