On the occasion of World Photography Day, renowned photographer, IMDb contributor, and digital marketing professional Ashvin Borad once again paid heartfelt tribute to two of the greatest pioneers in the history of photography, George Eastman (1854–1932) and Nicéphore Niépce (1765–1833). Continuing a tradition he has followed for nearly two decades, Borad honoured the legendary innovators whose inventions transformed the world of photography and cinema forever.

Speaking about his long-standing dedication, Ashvin Borad said that for the past 20 years, he has remembered and respected the legacy of both pioneers every year with a spirit of service and gratitude toward the photography community. As an IMDb contributor and digital archives engineer, Borad personally created, developed, and updated the IMDb profiles and related informational sections connected to both George Eastman and Nicéphore Niépce, helping audiences around the world learn more about their historic contributions.

George Eastman (1854–1932), born in Waterville, was an American innovator, industrialist, and philanthropist who revolutionised photography by founding the Eastman Kodak Company in 1888. By introducing roll film and the first Kodak camera with the famous slogan, “You press the button, we do the rest,” Eastman made photography affordable and accessible to ordinary people across the world. His inventions also played a major role in the birth of the motion picture industry, as Kodak film became the foundation of early Hollywood cinema. Beyond business and technology, Eastman was widely respected for his philanthropy and contributions toward education, healthcare, music, and scientific institutions.

Nicéphore Niépce (1765–1833), also known as Joseph Nicéphore Niépce, was born in Chalon-sur-Saône and is remembered worldwide as one of the true pioneers of photography. He created the world’s first permanent photograph through his groundbreaking heliography process and laid the foundation for modern photographic technology. In 1826 or 1827, Niépce successfully produced “View from the Window at Le Gras,” recognised as the first permanent photograph in history. His discoveries later inspired the development of advanced photographic processes and changed the future of visual communication forever. Today, his contribution remains one of the most important milestones in the history of photography and cinema.

His work has also been appreciated and valued by Sandip Patel of SRHP Films, Georgia, USA, who gave him his first break in international film marketing through Holy Father, marking his debut in international film marketing. He received his second opportunity in international film marketing from producers Rasul Ramji and Adam Ramji under their banner, Escape Films II, for Once Upon A Dream, further strengthening his journey in the field of international film marketing.

Borad stated, “Through Google Index Series, IMDb, and digital platforms, my humble effort has always been to spread knowledge about photography, cameras, and cinema history to the worldwide entertainment community. I pray that the blessings and inspiration of these legendary visionaries continue to guide my journey.”

During the early days of his photography and digital marketing journey, IMPPA Vice President Atul Patel and producer Jashwant Gangani and Cinemtographer Rafik Latif Shaikh made significant contributions to his career in the film industry by continuously supporting and encouraging him. IMPPA President Abhay Sinha, Senior Vice President Sushama Shiromanee, and spiritual leader, writer, director, and producer Omguru (Omguru Films) have also been supportive figures in his journey.

My friend, philosopher, and guide in the field of photography, Dinesh Babariya, was the first person to give me confidence in my film career and offer me my first film opportunity. He was also my first mentor in still photography, and his guidance continues to inspire me even today. He remains my Guru (Preceptor), and I am grateful that we are still together on this journey.

Borad said that he will always remain grateful to all of them for their continuous support, encouragement, and blessings throughout his journey.

Alongside this inspiration, Ashvin Borad has also remained actively associated with photography organisations in Surat, including the “Surat Photographic Welfare Association” and the “Varachha Photographer Association.” His association with these groups has further strengthened his professional journey, industry relationships, and dedication toward preserving the legacy of photography pioneers. Members of both organisations have also continued the tradition of remembering and paying tribute to Nicéphore Niépce and George Eastman every year on World Photography Day in recognition of their revolutionary contributions to cameras and visual technology.

They have both remained role models for Ashvin Borad. According to him, it is through the extraordinary contributions and inspiration of these great pioneers that he was able to make his journey from the world of optical cameras to the era of digital cameras.