Shutter Stories Chapter 4’ opens at National Art Gallery

Moments frozen in time, emotions captured in light, and stories told without words came together at "Shutter Stories Chapter 4", the national photography exhibition organised by the Photography Club of United International University (UIU), which opened at the National Art Gallery of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in Dhaka on Friday.

Now in its fourth edition, the exhibition offers a glimpse into contemporary life through the eyes of young photographers from across the country. Held at Gallery No 7, it will remain open to the public until 28 December, inviting visitors to explore visual stories shaped by patience, perspective, and creativity.

This year's response was impressive, with nearly 1,000 photographers submitting almost 11,000 photographs. Following a rigorous selection process, 78 single photographs and six photo stories are on display, each offering a quiet yet powerful reflection of the world around us.

The selection jury comprised acclaimed photographers Hasan Saifuddin Chandan, Mohammad Rakibul Hasan, and Mahmud Hossain Apu. They highlighted the growing role of photography in shaping artistic expression and cultural conversation in Bangladesh, noting that platforms like Shutter Stories encourage young creatives to observe, question, and document their surroundings with honesty and skill.

For the organisers, the opening marked a rewarding milestone after months of preparation. The exhibition is open to all at Shilpakala Academy, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience the work of emerging photographers up close.

At the inauguration, Pulok Sikdar, President of the UIU Photography Club, said the fourth chapter of Shutter Stories was the result of nearly one and a half years of dedication and teamwork, encouraging photography enthusiasts and art lovers to explore the exhibition first-hand.

Echoing this, Md Mahmudul Hasan, the club's General Secretary, expressed hope that the photographs would leave a lasting impression on visitors. A total prize pool of Tk50,000 will be awarded to six photographers featured in this year's exhibition.

After its run at Shilpakala Academy, "Shutter Stories Chapter 4" will move to the UIU campus, where it will be displayed at the university's Multipurpose Hall on 6 and 7 January, offering students another opportunity to engage closely with the works.