A Once-in-a-Lifetime Street photography comprehensive workshop!
Dates :
12th Jan 2025 – 16th Jan 2025 : Prayagraj
16th Jan – 19th Jan 2025 Varanasi
Participants : Limited to 4 participants only
Workshop Fees: USD 6,495/ EUR 6,495/ INR 540,000. Avail the early bird discount before the 2nd of February, 2024.
The sum of USD 7,195/ EUR 7,195/ INR 595,000 shall be effective subsequent to the 2nd of February, 2024.
Why Maha Kumbh 2025?
Maha Kumbh is not just an event, it’s a kaleidoscope of spirituality, culture, and human connections. This mystical congregation of millions is a visual feast, a tapestry of colors, emotions, and traditions that beg to be immortalised.
What Makes this Workshop Unique?
As seasoned street photographers, we bring a wealth of experience and a keen eye for storytelling to this exclusive workshop. This isn’t just about technical skills, it’s about learning to see beyond the chaos, capturing the silent moments that define the soul of Maha Kumbh. We have shot the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj in 2001 and 2013. The Maha Kumbh in 2025, will be our 3rd Maha Kumbh.
- Insider Access: With years of experience, we will help you navigate the bustling crowds with ease, gaining access to hidden gems and exclusive vantage points.
- Personalised Feedback: You will receive constructive critiques tailored to your work, helping you refine your craft during and after the workshop.
- A Portfolio to Remember: You will leave with a collection of images that not only document but also narrate the story of Maha Kumbh 2025 through your lens. Let’s capture the magic together and create images that resonate for a lifetime. Join us in Maha Kumbh 2025 and elevate your street photography to new heights!
“Kumbh” in its literal English translation means “Pot”, which emerged from “Samudra Manthan”(Churning of the Ocean) between Gods and Devils. The term ‘Mela‘ means “Fair”
In the mystical tapestry of India’s spiritual landscape, the Maha Kumbh stands as a rare celestial event, a confluence of faith, tradition, and humanity that occurs once every 12 years. Scheduled for 2025, this grand spectacle promises to be a pilgrimage like no other, drawing millions from across the globe to the sacred banks of the Ganges.
The Maha Kumbh is not merely a gathering; it is a cosmic alignment of rivers, rituals, and revered saints, where the spiritual energy is palpable in the air. The event is rooted in ancient Hindu mythology, symbolizing the churning of the ocean of milk for the elixir of immortality. Today, it represents a profound journey of self-discovery and devotion, attracting seekers and believers alike.
At the heart of the Maha Kumbh is the sacred dip in the holy river, believed to cleanse one’s sins and bestow divine blessings. Pilgrims and sadhus, draped in vibrant hues, create a kaleidoscope of devotion as they embark on this transformative ritual. The atmosphere resonates with the sounds of hymns, prayers, and the joyous clamor of divers cultures converging under the spiritual umbrella of the Kumbh.
The 2025 edition is poised to be a photographer’s dream, offering a visual feast of humanity’s collective faith. From the intricately adorned sadhus with their ash-smeared bodies to the fervent chants rising with the smoke of sacred fires, every moment encapsulates the essence of devotion. It’s a rare opportunity for photographers to capture the raw, unfiltered beauty of a spiritual carnival that transcends time and space.
APF is organising a 8 day intensive workshop which is tailor made to cater to needs of anyone who wishes to train their eyes to find order in chaos of this years Maha Kumbh Mela held in Allahabad. Street photography is very rewarding but at the same time, one of the hardest genres to master. This workshop would help ease the anxiety next time you hit the streets, would help solve the puzzle of composing compelling images in split seconds and most importantly it would help you to see.
Each day will include shooting and theoretical session on all you need to know about street and travel photography, dos and don’ts, ways to overcome the fear of getting close, detailed look into various composition aspects and the common mistakes while composing, understanding layering in photography, developing ones own style, understanding peripheral vision, ways to see and treat light. Mentors will also share shot videos of how photographs are made.
Mentors : Vineet Vohra & Rohit Vohra
A make shift classroom will help the participants share and select their top images for review and critiques.
Mentors will talk about the art of story telling. How to write stories and photo essays, followed by a lecture on importance of shooting personal projects and how it benefits in a long run.
Workshop Fees: USD 6,495/ EUR 6,495/ INR 540,000. Avail the early bird discount before the 2nd of February, 2024.
The sum of USD 7,195/ EUR 7,195/ INR 595,000 shall be effective subsequent to the 2nd of February, 2024.
Includes :
- Workshop charges
- Single occupancy Hotel stay in 3/4 star property for 7 nights and 8 days.
- All meals
- All local travel in Allahabad and Varanasi
Excludes:
– Return international air ticket
– Any private expenses
– Room service charges
– Porter services
– 18% GST for Indians / 5% paypal fee when applicable
– Return Domestic tickets, Visa fees (if applicable)
– Personal travel insurance (compulsory; self-purchase)
To book the complete package please write to us at contact@artphotofeature.com
Cancelation Policy :
- If the workshop is cancelled due to any reasons (including covid), full refund will be issued to the participant.
- 35% Cancellation charges before 6th June 2024
- If a participant cancels for any reason after 6th June 2024, 100% fee will be deducted.
All precautions will be taken for the safety of participants. Workshop is limited to 4 participants only.
We would highly recommend a good travel insurance for your own safety.
During this Intense shooting 8-day workshop, we will focus on the following topics:
- How to work towards a theme and focus on projects.
- Travel Photography and art of story telling
- How to edit your images to enhance the final result.
- Photography assignments to put theories to work while walking with the mentors in Allahabad and Varanasi
This workshop is limited to 4 participants only.
There are no pre-requisites for attending this workshop. The workshop will be best suited for photographers who have some understanding of how to operate their camera, edit their photos, have some experience in photography and want to take their skills to the next level. However, inexperienced photographers are also welcome. You will be walking a lot during the 6 days, please be prepared for that. We will be shooting in odd hours as required for this largest spectacle on earth.
Students need to bring the following to the workshop:
– A digital camera with a fixed wide angle lens preferably (a 35mm focal length lens would be best). You are most welcome to get your Long telephoto lenses and zooms for your personal work.
– A laptop with software to edit/tone your images
– A notebook to take down notes during the workshop
Register Now:
To book the complete package please write to us at contact@artphotofeature.com
FAQs
- What is the Maha Kumbh Mela, and why is it a unique opportunity for street photography?
- The Maha Kumbh Mela is a major Hindu festival that takes place every 12 years, drawing millions of pilgrims. It’s a vibrant and culturally rich event, offering incredible opportunities for unique street photography.
- What camera equipment should I bring to the workshop?
- We recommend bringing any digital camera, a 28mm -35mm lenses are great but you are most welcome to bring the lens that you are comfortable. A comfortable camera bag which can carry extra batteries and a bottle of water would be great.
- Will there be photography restrictions or guidelines during the Mela?
- While photography is generally allowed, there may be specific areas or events where restrictions apply. We will provide guidance on respecting local customs and obtaining permissions when necessary. We will try and get you all access for most of the locations.
- Do I need prior street photography experience to attend this workshop?
- No prior experience is required. This workshop is suitable for photographers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. We’ll cover fundamental principles and techniques, tailoring the instruction to individual skill levels.
- How will the workshop address the challenges of photographing large crowds?
- We’ll discuss strategies for navigating and capturing moments in crowded environments, emphasising techniques to maintain creativity and storytelling amidst the bustling atmosphere of the Kumbh Mela.
- Is there a specific focus on cultural sensitivity in the workshop?
- Absolutely. We will dedicate time to understanding and respecting the cultural nuances of the Maha Kumbh Mela. This includes guidance on approaching subjects respectfully and being aware of cultural sensitivities.
- Will there be opportunities for one-on-one feedback and critique sessions?
- Yes, we will conduct review sessions where participants can share their work, receive constructive feedback, and engage in discussions to enhance their skills. These sessions will be held everyday.
- Are there any specific safety considerations for photographers during the Mela?
- Safety is a priority. We’ll provide guidelines on navigating the festival grounds, securing your equipment, and staying aware of your surroundings. It’s essential to be mindful of personal safety while capturing memorable moments.
- What is the workshop schedule, and how flexible is it?
- The workshop schedule will include a mix of instructional sessions, shooting streets, and group discussions. While there’s a structured plan, we understand the dynamic nature of the Mela, and the schedule will be adapted to capture spontaneous photographic opportunities.
- How do I register for the workshop, and what is included in the registration fee?
- Spots are extremely limited. To register for the workshop, please write to contact@artphotofeature.com . Registration details will be provided on mail. The fee covers workshop charges, all meals, all local travel, accommodation for all days. Participants are responsible for their additional personal expenses. (See the section above for more details)
