Absolutely reclusive, profoundly talented and eclectically enigmatic, this master photographer is undoubtedly India’s numero uno writes Praveen Sikkandar about Iqbal, the ace photographer who has bagged the Teacher’s Award.
Born in the temple town Madurai, Iqbal's early years were spent in Karaikudi, Dindugal, Pudukottai and the Nilgiris. The son of an IPS officer, Iqbal had an innate talent for visualising images and capturing them. Ace cinematographer Alphonse Roy once said, "This man's eyes are not circular but rectangular like a film roll!"
Iqbal completed his BA in History at Loyola College and MBA from Madras University before embarking on a journey to USA to get a degree in Photography from the world-renowned Brooks Institute, in California. He set up Asia's first professional institute for photography in the Nilgiris. He then set up the Light and Life Academy, which he is the director of today. His clients include Reebok, Timex, Ashok Layland, Toyota and Ford. His passion for travel and nature led him to bring out two coffee table books - The Nilgiri Mountain Railway and The Chola Architecture. He also brought out Portrait and Function Photography, the first of its kind book that was published in eight Indian languages besides English.
William Teacher, the Father of the Teachers brand had always strived to follow certain principles he held dear. "Belief in daring to be different refusing to tread the beaten path and leading by example thus achieving height in both spirit and action." This was the very belief that led to the inception of the Teacher's Achievement Award which salutes people who have excelled in their chosen filed of sports, business, entertainment and communication. The 9th edition of the prestigious Teachers Award was held in Mumbai on Nov 7th which was attended by crème de la crème in including Lara Dutta, Arshad Warsi and Boman Irani.
Apart from being a brilliant photographer, Iqbal is a great human being. Anyone with an experience like his will cash in on fame and money but he set up an institution to teach. The worth of a teacher is reflected in the work of the student. - Pralad Kakkar, Ad Film maker.
This award is long overdue! His sense of passion for photography is scientific and non-commercial. Back in the 90s, he was the only source of information and experience to students who wanted to pursue photography as a career. He is god to every photographer. - G. Venkatram
Iqbal is absolutely a master when it comes to pre-visualisation. He encourages and understands each and every student of his. His delivery is very strong and technically perfect. I am very, very happy about his winning this award - Madhavan Pillai, Editor - Better Photography
Know more about Iqbal Mohamed - The Director of Light and Life Academy