Capturing Time: The Art of Photographers Showcasing Timeless Landmarks and Architectural Heritage

A multitude of photographers have accentuated the significance of photography in chronicling historical sites and heritage architecture, exhibiting their distinct beauty and increasing awareness of their cultural worth, thus motivating society to conserve them.

In discussions with the Qatar News Agency (QNA), they stated that Qatari forts and heritage structures function as inspirational cultural symbols that tell profound stories about human connections and geographical authenticity, aiding in the reinforcement of national identity and the revival of cultural heritage.

The photographers recounted their personal journeys in capturing these sites, emphasising how contemporary technologies enhance the documentation of their aesthetics, alongside their aspirations for the future of photography in light of technological progress.

Abdulla al-Mesleh remarked that Qatari forts and heritage architecture are of pivotal importance as historical emblems representing bygone eras and significant national worth.

Many of these structures were erected for defensive purposes and to safeguard the nation, preserving a rich tapestry of narratives that resonate universally, particularly with photographers who strive to immortalise these moments for subsequent generations.

Al-Mesleh articulated that his pursuit as a photographer is to document these sites to showcase their beauty and preserve them, underscoring the necessity of building an archive of images that records any alterations these landmarks may experience due to natural or human-made influences.

This, he affirmed, enriches the memories of inheriting generations and allows them to grasp the significance of these sites.

Al-Mesleh underscored his dedication to participating in global exhibitions and gatherings with works that document historical landmarks, as they mirror Qatar’s heritage and present others with illuminating aspects of its history.

He mentioned that two of his artworks received accolades at the 2024 International Pano Awards – one featuring The Pearl Island and the other displaying night photography in the Al Aamriya area.

Concerning his photographic style, al-Mesleh indicated that the optimal times to photograph historical landmarks are during sunrise, sunset, and overcast weather, stating that these conditions add beautiful hues to the images, enhancing their artistic documentation.

He embodied this vision in his 2017 solo exhibit titled “Qatar Between Sunset and Sunrise,” which showcased a series of works capturing Qatar’s natural, architectural, and heritage sites.

This ambitious initiative is one he intends to expand with a follow-up edition.

When discussing the evolution of photography, he observed that while modern technology, including digital cameras and artificial intelligence (AI), has positively influenced the discipline, it cannot substitute for the artist.

Al-Mesleh emphasised that the value of a photograph resides in the photographers’ style and their approach to using tools and technology.

He remarked that photography in Qatar is undergoing continual growth, with growing interest from young talents and newcomers.

Meanwhile, Abdulhadi al-Marri conveyed that historical and heritage structures function as a “black box” reflecting the narratives of nations and civilisations, noting that architectural forms are the most reliable witnesses to history and the contributions of forebears.

He asserted that local architecture inspires creators across various artistic realms, highlighting that photographers play a vital role in preserving this cultural legacy by shining a light on architectural aesthetics and narrating visual stories linked to them.

Al-Marri stated that as a photographer, he concentrates on the form, elements, and style of architecture, which embody profound social philosophies.

He pointed out that interconnected architectural designs represent the need for sustainable ventilation, while surrounding walls ensure privacy for inhabitants, showcasing the unique philosophy of the nation and its ancestors.

Al-Marri expressed that he prefers to photograph architecture from elevated or aerial viewpoints to accentuate the overall composition from a distinctive angle, as these perspectives captivate the viewer’s eye.

He also prefers to utilise wide-angle lenses for ground-level shots to underscore the particulars of local architecture, marked by simplicity and harmony with the environment.

Concerning the future of photography amid technological advancements, al-Marri declared that the outlook appears bright for visual arts and content creation, credited to technical advancements and the advent of AI, broadening opportunities for photographers and creators.

He added that public awareness regarding art and its significance has increased, and educational resources on photography have become more accessible, positively influencing the artistic landscape in general, particularly photography.

Maha Rashid al-Athba underlined that heritage architecture and historical forts are a rich source of inspiration and artistic innovation.

She noted that photos illustrating cultural heritage or historical sites capture attention because they stir curiosity and evoke a sense of belonging and pride.

Al-Athba confirmed that the allure of details and ornamental motifs enriches photographs artistically, illuminating the history and narrative of a place.

Forts and heritage sites also carry cultural and historical symbolism, enriching images with diverse meanings, making them ideal for artistic exploration.

Al-Athba employs a unique approach in photographing heritage architecture, focusing on accentuating the aesthetic and symbolic elements of historical edifices.

In her creations, she utilises light and shadow to illuminate architectural motifs and decorations, infusing depth and character into her images that resonate with the authenticity of the site.

Through her artistry, al-Athba aspires to document architectural heritage in a manner that unites historical precision with visual appeal, contributing to the reinforcement of cultural identity and raising awareness about the necessity of safeguarding historical landmarks.

She underscored that photographs play an essential role in protecting heritage by accurately documenting forts and heritage sites, motivating individuals and organizations to preserve them, and enhancing public appreciation of their significance.

This empowers future generations to comprehend their history and value, while also creating media and artistic influence by attracting public focus and addressing threats faced by these locations.

She stated that photographs offer an elegant medium to showcase the beauty and significance of historical landmarks, encouraging individuals to visit them and learn about their cultural value, thus promoting cultural tourism and aiding in the preservation of these locations.

Al-Athba further mentioned that these visuals assist in raising awareness regarding the importance of conserving historical forts and architectural heritage through highlighting their beauty and narrative.

She observed that documented images of these sites serve as a vital reference for restoration efforts, assisting experts in reestablishing intricate details that may have been compromised.

On the future of photography, al-Athba posits that the rise of technology and digital cameras broadens the creative horizons within the discipline.

She pointed out that ongoing technological advancements are reshaping the limits of artistic expression.

The photographer stated that the most notable aspects of this future comprise continuous enhancements in image clarity and precision, alongside the use of AI to analyse scenes and automatically optimise images – such as adjusting lighting, correcting colours, and eliminating flaws.

Smartphones fitted with advanced cameras and photography applications are also democratizing photography, making it accessible to all.

Al-Athba added that with the emergence of contemporary technology and drones, photography has transformed into an innovative tool for storytelling, exploring the globe, and expressing concepts in ways previously unattainable.