Photography workshop helps participants to improve skills
Published:Friday | October 6, 2023 | 12:08 AMKeisha Hill/Senior Gleaner Writer
The people who make up today’s thriving photographic community are our eyes to the world. Whether established artists and journalists or passionate emerging voices, they inform us, they inspire us, they amaze us, they put our world in the broader context of history.
With the proper equipment and vision, photography can make your life much better. It can help lift our spirits when we are down, help us look beyond the disappointments life can sometimes throw at us, and spark our creativity and imagination.
Fine art photographer, Gerald Gordon, hosted an inaugural Beginner’s Photography Workshop, held at The Summit House. The event was attended by over 60 participants, and included a comprehensive exploration into the world of photography. The attendees’ comprised a diverse group, including participants from the Morant Bay Women’s Centre, members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), corporate groups, and youth associations.
According to Gordon, the workshop delved into a wide array of topics that provided a well-rounded learning experience.
“Renowned photographer Donnette Ingrid Zacca educated us about the history and significance of photography, while Kianne Hutchinson shared practical tips for capturing stunning images using smartphones. Gevanni Hinds enlightened us on different lighting techniques to enhance the visual impact of photographs,” Gordon said.
“The NCB Foundation segment titled ‘Snapping Success’ offered insights into mastering social media, developing financial literacy skills, and monetising photography. The workshop concluded with a discussion on conceptual theory, unveiling the power of storytelling through photography,” he added.
Gordon indicated that the workshop also served as an exceptional platform for participants to hone their photography skills, acquire practical knowledge, and network within the industry. “By equipping individuals with the tools and knowledge to succeed in photography, we aim to contribute to their personal and professional development,” he said.
We can find beauty in our lives through photography. Don’t believe it? Look at all the old photographs your mother or grandmother had around. Using a camera to find beauty in the things and people around us helps us to see things in a different light. A wonderful therapeutic benefit of photography is that it can help us see the beauty surrounding us. We just have to take a moment to stop and look.
“The response from our attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Many attendees expressed their interest in a follow-up event, affirming the success and impact of our workshop,” Gordon said.
One of the workshop’s participants, Renard Raymond, said the event was inspiring and a success, as it shared significant knowledge and skills with others. “The desire to learn and improve one’s craft is undoubtedly fuelled by the ability to create a supportive and enriching environment for all participants. As photographers, we not only capture captivating images but also ignite a spark in numerous aspiring photographers,” he said.
He said by providing a platform for both beginners and seasoned photographers to share their experiences, exchange ideas, and learn from one another, the space has been created where creativity can flourish.
“The impact of the workshop extends beyond the event itself, as attendees will undoubtedly carry the lessons learned and the inspiration gained into their own photographic journeys. The workshop has undoubtedly empowered and encouraged many individuals to pursue their dreams and explore the world through the lens of a camera,” he said.