If legendary street photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson were still alive, I’m sure that he would’ve given a nod of approval to the image we are looking at today.
This city scene was shot by Somdutt Prasad – an ophthalmologist and multi-award-winning photographer – on the streets of Kolkata, India, and recently won the Urban category of the National Geographic Traveller (UK) Photography Competition.
In the colorful frame, aptly titled Disconnected, we see a hooded man using his phone, just as the subject in the mural behind him uses his, in what is a brilliant example of Cartier-Bresson’s Decisive Moment philosophy: the split second when all elements of a scene—geometry, movement, and human emotion—come together, producing a visually stunning and emotionally impactful image.
“I’d been photographing in the area when I came across this striking mural. What immediately attracted me was the vibrant palette and the large seated figure depicted in the artwork, absorbed in a mobile phone,” said Somdutt.
But instead of simply snapping the mural, Somdutt returned early the next morning when the streets were quieter, hoping to capture a pedestrian passing by in a way that would “create a meaningful visual relationship with the artwork.”
Eventually, a passerby entered the frame while using his phone, which was the final missing piece of the decisive composition. “For a brief moment, the real and painted worlds seemed to echo one another, creating a layered commentary on contemporary urban life and our relationship with technology,” said Somdutt.
When deciding on the Urban category winner, I’m sure the National Geographic judges picked up on just how well Somdutt reflected Cartier-Bresson’s philosophy in his shot. Speaking on winning the award, Somdutt said it was both “humbling” and “deeply rewarding.”
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