Afghan Box Camera

The Afghan Box Camera is a unique and fascinating photographic culture that has survived against all odds. In Afghanistan, this traditional form of photography has continued to thrive, with generations of photographers using hand-made wooden cameras like the kamra-e-faoree to capture portraits for identity documents. Despite being outlawed by the Taliban, box camera photography has persisted, often in conjunction with more sophisticated large format black and white portraits that are painstakingly hand-coloured. This book brings together dozens of Afghan photographers to showcase their remarkable technique and artistry. By exploring the world of the kamra-e-faoree, readers gain a deeper understanding of Afghanistan's rich photographic history, spanning decades from peacetime to war. The result is a visually enthralling and captivating photographic culture that has never been fully documented before. Through stunning images and insightful commentary, Afghan Box Camera reveals the beauty and significance of this forgotten art form, shedding new light on the lives and work of Afghanistan's photographers.