MAKKAH: Photographer Abdulrahman Al-Almaei is leveraging the latest 3-D technology to offer Saudis a new way of capturing precious moments.
As well as taking pictures of people, the lensman aims to document significant memories and record the Kingdom’s rich heritage, along with important stages in culture, clothing, and cuisine.
Minimi, located in Riyadh’s Boulevard World, involves more than 80 cameras and 12 flashes inside a room. The subject is photographed from all sides before the images are combined to form a 3-D model that includes every detail.
The result is an alternative to traditional photos or artifacts.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Abdulrahman Al-Almaei offers an alternative to traditional photos or artifacts.
• Minimi, located in Riyadh’s Boulevard World, involves more than 80 cameras and 12 flashes inside a room.
• The subject is photographed from all sides before the images are combined to form a 3-D model that includes every detail.
His idea grew from an affinity with new technologies rather than a passion for photography. He noted that there were companies in the US renowned for their exceptional printer manufacturing capabilities, while the innovation was also mainstream in Japan, South Korea, and China.
On developing the concept in Saudi Arabia, he said: “While we are progressing by learning from others’ experiences, we are seeking something that aligns with our culture.
“Our focus is on refining and implementing this technology to enhance our values and culture. We are exploring potential and specific fields to generate fresh and modern perspectives in 3-D technologies,” he added.
While the technology was still new and costly, he pointed out that it was distinctive and currently unparalleled.
Al-Almaei said: “This is the phase of idea validation. We are on the verge of enhancing these concepts, particularly in the realm of photography, in order to make the experience affordable for everyone and not limited to a privileged few.”
However, he added, one disadvantage of 3-D photography was the need for specialized cameras. Printing also took a long time and required both patience and advanced technical capabilities.
Currently, the technology was only available in the Kingdom in Riyadh, but he said the feasibility of extending it to other cities was being evaluated. He also hoped Saudi Arabia’s younger generations would get involved and be encouraged to learn the fundamentals of 3-D photography.
As well as being used to print buildings and houses, the technique is also being used to document heritage, cultures, ancient clothing, and food.
Al-Almaei said the technology had no limits and offered an opportunity to connect the Kingdom’s historical wealth with its bright present.
