Hundreds of photographers snap for cash along world's longest beach

"More tourists means more money for us," said the photographer, who has practiced photography since the era of analogue cameras.

"The beach authorities have given me, like all recognized photographers, a uniform. More and more guests are visiting the beach and we try our best to win their hearts with great photographs."

Another photographer, Polash, has been involved with the profession since 2001.

He said that in the past Cox's Bazaar had not been particularly developed, but that these days there is very good beach administration, better security and more facilities available to tourists.

"The beach is very safe now. Tourists are coming and visiting places in Cox's Bazar without any trouble."

"When we used to shoot on film we charged 20 taka for one printed photo. Now we provide photos on memory cards and also charge 20 taka for one printed photo," said Polash.

He went on to explain how he provides photos in various ways as per customers' choice and that business is booming now.

Taking photos for customers on the beach has also created an earning opportunity for Md Babul, a student, who works on the beach snapping pics during his free time.

"I need to earn money for myself and my family. The district administration has fixed the prices of photos so for each digital photo we charge 5 taka. But for each printed photo a customer needs to pay 20 taka," he said.

Photographer Dildar told Xinhua he spent 40,000 taka to buy a camera and lens to set up his beachfront photography operation.

"I earn about 10,000-12,000 taka every month. The more people come, the more I earn," the happy snapper said. (1 dollar equals about 82 taka).