The indigenous people of Sri Lanka

My Photo scholarship 2010 entry

Sri Lanka | Wednesday, August 4, 2010 | 5 photos

These pictures were taken in Sri Lanka. They are of the Sri Lankan indigenous peoples known as the Vedda. I visited two different tribes, in order to craft a story about the cultural evolution of indigenous people. The two tribes have progressed in two distinct directions, the first group, the Dambana Vedda dress up as their ancestors and make a living from donations, and are becoming more involved in modern society. While the eastern Vedda still live in the jungle, and have adapted to a life of sustenance living. In order to convey these differences I used two different photographic styles. I shot the Dambana with studio lighting in a very static form, in one sense to capture the quintessential NatGeo photo of tribes and also to provide an image that does not emotionally affect the viewer. For the eastern Vedda, I employed natural light and more environmental shots, to develop a stronger connection between the viewer and the photographs.
In order to get access I contacted a heritage foundation in Sri. They were able to put me in contact with a well-versed guide/translator/driver. Although the costs were beyond my budget as an aspiring photographer, this is a representation of the passion and desire I have in achieving my goal of becoming a professional travel photographer. Another aspect of my life that further highlights my infatuation is my decision to live in Taiwan. I have left a conventional life in the United States and dedicated myself fully to photography and travel. Living in Taiwan allows me to make a sustainable income, while keeping me very close to the locations where I want to shoot. Because of my developing skill as a photographer, and absolute passion for photography, I feel I would be an excellent candidate for this assignment.