Tell us about One Eyeland.
One Eyeland is a repository of creative photographs shot by some of the world’s best photographers. The idea is to make the website a one-stop shop in creative photography.
Where did the idea stem from?
In 2009, as a photographer and at the helm of an advertising agency, I felt there was a need for a platform that art directors and artistes could use to identify talent for clients.
Did you have to deal with resistance from international photographers?
Initially, yes. But over time, they have realised that photography is serious business for us.
The level of participation on the website?
We have about 30,000 members, of whom nearly 50 per cent are photographers. In the last 30 months, we’ve received nearly 43,000 images, of which 9,500 are on the site.
How much do photographers depend on it?
Nearly 100 images are uploaded daily. We get an enquiry for a photographer or two from a prospective client almost on a daily basis.
And now there is a book as well...
Yes. The idea behind One Eyeland Book, Vol 1, is to collate the creme de la creme of the photographs and present them in a printed aesthetic that is truly international.
Does it have work by Indian photographers?
Yes. Suresh Natarajan from Mumbai and Wasim Khan from Bangalore.
Where will the book be distributed?
The book is being shipped to nearly 1,000 advertising agencies across the world.
Are more books like this in the offing?
The plan was for an annual affair, but from the response—especially from ad agencies—we’re considering making it more frequent.
Did Mani Ratnam, who launched the book, like it?
The first thing he said was, “There are digitally manipulated images as well. That’s great.” He recognises the need for innovation and technology to achieve a stunning aesthetic.