STORY & LEGACY

TWO GENERATION’S LEGACY

Unearthing the Past: The Impact of a Forgotten Roll of Film

Attila Preszter Zenit Camera

I discovered my passion for photography at a young age, a spark first ignited when I was given my father's old Zenit Film Camera to explore. My love for capturing moments truly blossomed after I stumbled upon my grandfather's vintage LOMO Smena 35mm Film Camera, along with an undeveloped roll of film that had been hidden away for over thirty years.

Finding those long-forgotten photos sparked a curiosity in me and a desire to capture and preserve moments in time through my camera lens. From that moment on, I knew photography was more than just a hobby; it was a true passion I was determined to pursue.

I've always felt like an artist at heart, seeking ways to express my creativity. This passion has led me on an incredibly interesting journey, encountering extraordinary people and compelling stories to capture. Through my lens, I don't just take photographs—I craft narratives, immortalising moments and memories for everyone to appreciate.

  • Zenit Camera: A Legacy from my Father

  • Capturing Images with the Zenit Camera

  • LOMO Smena 35mm Film Camera

  • The 32-Year-Old Forgotten Film

  • The forgotten film: Double Exposed Photo

  • The forgotten film: Cousins and Cats

THE ART OF FILM DEVELOPMENT AND PRINTING

A Guided Journey with Master Printer Hetty Walsh

Hetty Walsh - Printer

Upon discovering my grandfather's old camera and undeveloped film, I became determined to bring those hidden photos to life. I embarked on a quest to find a developer who could assist me with the process. During this journey, I fortuitously stumbled upon Hetty Walsh, a master photo printer based in Ireland. With an impressive 40 years of experience, Hetty had worked with some of the most renowned Irish photographers, such as Bill Doyle and John Minihan, and even famous actors like Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Day-Lewis.

Hetty not only developed the negatives and printed the black and white film photos for me but also kindly took me under her wing. She tutored me in the intricate ins and outs of developing film and printing black & white photography in her darkroom. I was fortunate enough to learn from Hetty, a true virtuoso of her craft, with an astounding 27 Kodak awards to her name.

Under her expert guidance and mentorship, I began to truly understand the artistry and technical skills required to produce breathtaking photographs. Elements such as contrast and light, among other aspects of photography, became more apparent. Hetty played an instrumental role in shaping my career as a photographer. I will always be deeply grateful for the knowledge and wisdom she generously shared during our time together in the darkroom.

  • Photo Printing in Hetty’s Darkroom

  • With Hetty in the Process of Development

  • Manipulating Light through Burning and Dodging

  • Examining the Developed Negatives

  • Hetty Walsh Autographing Her Artwork

  • Freshly Printed Black and White Photographs

INFLUENCE AND INSPIRATION: THE NOTABLE PHOTOGRAPHER

John Minihan: Teacher, Mentor, and Friend

Hetty Walsh not only mentored me but also introduced me to one of her esteemed clients, the renowned Irish photographer John Minihan.

I was fortunate to encounter John Minihan several times. His legendary status in the world of photography was well-deserved, as he had captured iconic images of notable figures such as Samuel Beckett, Lady Diana, Alfred Hitchcock, Jimmy Hendrix, Andy Warhol, Francis Bacon, and The Beatles. John's work served as a profound source of inspiration for me.

I had numerous opportunities to meet with John, each encounter leaving a lasting impression. John was not just a casual acquaintance; he became a mentor to me, dedicating time to scrutinise my portfolio and offer constructive critiques. During these meetings, we would often delve into in-depth discussions about the philosophy of photography, dissecting the elements that transform a photograph from a mere snapshot into a compelling narrative.

John's lessons extended beyond technical skills; he also imparted a nuanced understanding of what makes a photograph meaningful, teaching me to look beyond the surface and into the soul of my subjects. These mentoring sessions were pivotal moments for me, each one a masterclass that helped shape my artistic voice and approach to photography.

John's influence was not only theoretical; he showed immense faith in me by gifting me his cherished Rolleiflex camera, a gesture that symbolised the continuation of a rich legacy. This act fortified a relationship already built on mutual respect and admiration, giving me not just a tool, but a touchstone for my own aspirations in the world of photography.

Our relationship transcended the typical mentor-mentee dynamic, evolving into a profound friendship that deeply enriched my work and perspective. Through John's mentorship, I honed my craft, enriched my artistic philosophy, and developed a clearer vision of what I aspired to achieve in the photography world.

  • When I first met with John

  • With John in Kinsale

  • At John’s exhibition in the UCC Library

  • During a coffee meeting with John

  • John with Hetty in Kinsale

  • John & Hetty - A lifelong journey

  • John Minihan with his Nikon F

Capturing the World Through the Lens

The Photographic Journey of Attila Preszter

Today, I continue to honour the legacy of my mentors. I meld time-honoured photographic traditions with my own creative flair to create images that engage both my clients and art aficionados. In doing so, I pay tribute to those who have inspired me while carving out my own space in the art world.

Inspired by the teachings of seasoned mentors, I have embarked on a global journey as a photographer. Always equipped with my camera, I capture the essence of diverse landscapes, intricate events, captivating animals, and intriguing individuals. As I travel, my lens serves as a window to the world's multifaceted beauty, from bustling cities to tranquil nature spots.

While I retain a deep appreciation for the art of black and white photography, I also embrace the capabilities of modern digital cameras. This allows me to experiment further and capture elements that traditional film might limit, such as rapid motion or low-light conditions. Seamlessly integrating the old with the new, I create a portfolio that is both timeless and contemporary.

For me, the real fulfilment comes from not just taking photographs, but from sharing these captured moments. My work serves as a conduit for joy and meaningful connection, subtly paying homage to the great traditions and innovations in photography. If you're keen to be a part of this visual journey, explore my carefully curated collection of signed images.

In every frame, I seek to evoke emotions, provoke thought, and capture the essence of the moment.