The city in a thousand frames, Abu Dhabi's oldest photo studios capture time
A portrait studio is a small room where time learns to linger. People step before the camera for only a heartbeat, yet what they carry away can outlive fashions, addresses and even the cityscape beyond the door. For the generation now, the only reason to visit a studio is probably to get a passport-size photos for their visas. But there existed a time, when wedding guests used these studios for…
Abu Dhabi's oldest photo studios have captured the city's history through countless frames. Rima Dandan, founder of Golden Camera, established her studio in 1995 to offer a distinct vision of portrait photography. Jerry Jose Vazhapilly, owner of Vivi Studio, inherited his father’s business, which began in 1985. These studios offered a traditional, personal experience that has evolved over the decades.
In the 1980s, photographers had to manually adjust settings, carefully light the scene, and compose each portrait. The process was meticulous, with no instant feedback or digital preview. Now, digital tools have made photography more accessible but also increased competition. However, the desire to preserve personal milestones remains unchanged.
Rima Dandan, a Lebanese immigrant to the UAE, began her career in 1993 and ensured her studio served women and families. As the industry faces challenges from COVID-era events and changing customer expectations, Rima considers closing her studio. Despite the decline in customers and the scarcity of film-processing equipment, these photo studios continue to document Abu Dhabi's transformation and people's most cherished moments.
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