Photography Training Program sessions primarily occur during the Kumbh Mela. Cameras, film, memory sticks, batteries, developing & printing, etc. are provided free of cost to the female ascetics of Juna Akhara. This is an experiential education program, where participants are given opportunity to photograph the Mela, how they see it, with little guidance as to “what to shoot” or even “how to shoot it”. Once they have a clear understanding of the basics, participants mostly photograph on their own time, without the guidance of a media mentor.
The Photography Training Program works on two levels.
Level One participants are typically given disposable (one time use) or regular 35mm film point and shoot cameras (depending upon availability). Basic instruction, as to how the camera works as well as best times of day and or lighting conditions in which to shoot, are provided. No instruction as to composition is provided to Level One participants, with the sole purpose of allowing the first time photographer to photograph what they want, how they want it, with out thinking about what or how they should be shooting. One-time use cameras typically have 27 exposures. Once the participant has shot all their frames, they return the camera to the AWC program. Film is processed, scanned and printed free of cost to the participant. AWC keeps an archive of the negatives and digital files of each roll of film. Prints are then returned to the participant photographer and subsequently discussed (gently critiqued) on the basis of content, composition, and exposure. Many participants continue with level one, receiving several disposable cameras prior to moving on to level two. In 2007, 40 disposable cameras were distributed to over ___ participants. In 2010, 56 disposable cameras were distributed to over ___ participants.
Those with particular interest, proven natural visual sensibilities are invited to the next level of training. Level Two participants are given digital point and shoot cameras (depending upon availability) as well as given more instruction as to composition, camera angles, lighting, exposure etc. Most participants take the opportunity to sit with a media mentor, in front of the computer, to go through their photo files, pick out which images they would like printed, discuss what makes some photos better then others, and ultimately learn to become competent photographers regularly contributing to the photo archive. After successfully completing Level Two participants who show particular interest are then invited to participate in the “Her-Story” Video Production Program.
The materials used in this program have been provided by generous donations throughout the years in between the Mela dates.
Program dates (during and beyond the following festivals):
2004, Simhastha Kumbh Mela, Ujjain, Madhaya Pradesh
2007, Ardha Kumbh Mela, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh
2010, Maha Kumbh Mela, Haridwar, Uttarkand
2013, Maha Kumbh Mela, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh
Below is a random selection of links to photo galleries (by various contributing ascetics) from 2004, 2007 & 2010.
• Rollover a thumbnail image to read whose gallery it is. • Click on a thumbnail image to view entire gallery.
