It’s incredible to see how technology is democratising creativity: SS Rajamouli

SS Rajamouli is known for his grand fantasy dramas, laced with high octane action, such as ‘Baahubabli: The Beginning’, ‘Baahubabli 2: The Conclusion’, ‘RRR’, ‘Magadheera’, ‘Eega’ and many more. He is one of the most celebrated film directors of all times in the Indian film industry.

Adgully caught up with SS Rajamouli recently for a freewheeling conversation on his art and the evolving landscape of visual storytelling through both photography and filmmaking. Rajamouli, renowned for his epic cinematic narratives, offers a unique perspective on how technological advancements are shaping these creative fields. His thoughts provide a profound understanding of the intersection between technology and creativity, shedding light on the future of visual storytelling, imagine IF Photography Awards, advancements in technologyinfluence your creative process, rise of powerful smartphone cameras, rise of powerful smartphone cameras and many more.

As a renowned filmmaker, how do you perceive the impact of visual storytelling through photography compared to cinematic storytelling and how your background in filmmaking influences your perspective on the art of photography?

As a filmmaker, I see photography and cinematic storytelling as two sides of the same creative coin. Photography captures moments frozen in time, evoking emotions and narratives through a single frame. It is the art of distilling a story into a single powerful image, where every detail matters. On the other hand, cinematic storytelling unfolds over time, using a sequence of images, sound, and movement to immerse the audience in a narrative journey.

My experience in filmmaking shapes my approach to photography, where I focus on how the shot is framed, how light interacts with the scene, and how the story unfolds visually. When I pick up a camera, I am not just taking a picture; I am crafting a story, drawing on the techniques I have learned in filmmaking to make that story come alive visually.

In your opinion, what unique elements do the Imagine IF Photography Awards bring to storytelling that may differ from film?

I am glad to be an Ambassador for OPPO India and Imagine IF Photography Awards 2024. With this initiative, the focus is on visual storytelling through a single image. It is about capturing the essence of a scene, an emotion, or a story in one frame – a challenge distinct from the film’s world-building and narrative flow. The initiative is designed to spark creativity in mobile photography and represents a bold step towards celebrating innovation and imagination.

The Imagine IF Awards open this up to everyone in India over 18. With such a diverse range of categories, there’s space for all photographic styles and stories to be told. I am excited to see the creativity and talent that emerges from this platform.

How do advancements in technology, particularly in photography and filmmaking, influence your creative process, and how do you envision the evolving intersection of technology and creativity shaping the landscape of visual mediums like photography?

As a storyteller, I am constantly amazed by how technology keeps pushing the envelope. Take something as basic as capturing a scene – today’s smartphones, like the OPPO Reno series, have cameras that resemble professional equipment. It is incredible to see this democratization of creativity, where anyone can be a photographer and share their vision.

The same thing is happening in filmmaking. Technology like pre-visualization tools let me plan intricate action sequences with pinpoint accuracy, while editing software helps craft the perfect narrative flow. But tech isn't just about big-budget effects; it allows for deeper storytelling. With my OPPO phone, I can capture stunning visuals anywhere, sparking ideas and inspiring fresh perspectives.

It is all about using technology to break creative roadblocks, not just technical hurdles.The human imagination is the most powerful tool of all, and technology should only serve to amplify that. As a filmmaker, I'm always adapting to new tech, integrating it into my process to elevate the story and visuals. It is the same in photography - I use advancements to push my craft further and explore uncharted territories of visual expression.

How has the rise of powerful smartphone cameras democratized photography and reshaped the industry? Do you observe a shift in how people value visual storytelling?

The rise of powerful smartphone cameras is revolutionary! It is democratized photography, putting a whole studio in your pocket. Anyone can be a storyteller now. OPPO's constant innovation empowers new creators with these tools – it’s incredible!

This accessibility is a game-changer. Anyone can explore their vision and share their unique perspective. It’s a beautiful marriage of technology and art, a win-win. Professionals can experiment on the go, while new storytellers can hone their craft. Smartphone cameras have democratized filmmaking too. Everyone's a potential content creator! Initiatives like the Imagine IF Awards challenge people to push boundaries with mobile photography. It’s an exciting time for storytellers, and I can’t wait to see the incredible stories these advancements bring to life.

Lastly, how do you envision the future of photography and visual storytelling, considering the ongoing technological advancements?

The future of photography and visual storytelling is incredibly exciting! With advancements in technology, we will see even more powerful tools that push the boundaries of what’s possible. OPPO is at the forefront of this movement, developing flagship smartphones with exceptional camera capabilities that empower creators to capture the world around them in stunning detail. I believe smartphones will become even more versatile filmmaking tools, allowing directors to shoot high-quality footage that rivals traditional cameras. Imagine capturing epic cinematic moments without bulky equipment – that’s the future we're heading towards. This democratisation of filmmaking will open doors for new voices and stories to emerge, enriching the world of visual storytelling like never before. It’s a future I’m eager to be a part of.