Maiya Shrestha, a 70-year-old woman, gets ready to capture a customer's passport-size photo at Memory Concern in New Road, Nepal on Monday, May 29, 2023.

In the bustling streets of New Road, Nepal, Maiya Shrestha, a 70-year-old woman, stands behind the lens, capturing the essence of life with every click. With unwavering determination and a passion for photography, Maiya defies age barriers to create timeless memories for her customers.

Having embarked on this journey at the age of 54, Maiya's path to becoming a skilled photographer was an unconventional one. Prior to this, she had served as a diligent bank assistant at Rastriya Banijya Bank. However, after the birth of their son, her husband's suggestion changed the course of her career. Joining him in his photography shop, Maiya found her true calling.

In the early days, their shop experienced a bustling crowd, especially during festive seasons like Dashain. But those were times when photo development meant sending pictures all the way to Bangkok. However, with the establishment of local labs in Kathmandu, Maiya became a part of the evolving photography industry, even working in one of those labs. She recalls the days when Polaroid cameras were used for capturing passport-sized photos, simplifying the process for their customers.

As the digital age advanced, laptops and smartphones became ubiquitous, resulting in a decline in customers seeking traditional photo services. Nevertheless, amidst this shift, Maiya adapted, embracing photo editing software like Photoshop to meet the demands of her clientele. Connecting with her customers through Viber and email, she ensures seamless communication in this modern era.

Often, visitors to her shop express surprise when they inquire about a photographer and discover that Maiya is the one behind the lens. But their initial astonishment quickly transforms into awe as they witness the caliber of her work. Maiya's talent and dedication leave a lasting impression, earning the admiration and satisfaction of her clients.

Beyond her personal achievements, Maiya's journey serves as an inspiration to women everywhere. A 70-year-old woman who defies societal expectations, she encourages others to pursue their passions and continue their work, regardless of age or gender. My relatives are surprised that I still work, as they often stay at home due to various pains and illnesses. But my age has not hindered me, says Maiya.

In a world filled with fleeting moments, Maiya Shrestha stands tall, capturing the timeless memories that will be cherished for generations to come. Through her lens, she reminds us that passion knows no boundaries and that a true artist can transcend age, leaving an indelible mark on the world.

(Skanda Gautam / Nepal Photo Library)