By Zuzana Zajacová (CZ)
Photography as the visual art offers us the unique way to treasure our memories and to tell the stories from the place we live. It takes us to various parts of the city, teaches us about history and at the same time refers to recent life. Photography provides an excellent way to explore the environment from different perspectives.
Joining IWAP in 2015 and the Photography group gave me an opportunity to meet people, and in 2018 I became the leader of the photography group.
How to describe this group? One of the long term members of the group said it all in these words; “The photography group is a safe and friendly environment to learn about taking photos where we can discuss our mistakes and how to improve.” All nationalities are welcomed, different types of cameras are accepted, it is open to all levels from beginners to advanced.
The Photography group meets twice a month. Meetings take place mainly outside. We explore the city through the viewfinder. It is amazing how often we are astonished by the fact that the familiar place suddenly looks different, many interesting details come to our attention, and the local spirit shows it’s hidden face. We follow assignments, learn some technicalities about cameras and a different way of taking photos. Indoor meetings are popular as well because while drinking a lovely cup of coffee or tea we are displaying our photos. Ten different photographers and one object to be photographed can lead to endless discussions. No one is professional, all of us are enthusiastic amateurs.
Photos taken for group projects are expected to be shared with group participants. A photography group member’s only Facebook page displays photos from the assignments and photowalks. We share our opinions and learn from each other. Every year we have members leaving and I know that all of them printed their memories of Prague in their own photos.
Photography Group members experiences and memories:
“The photography group is a safe and friendly environment to learn about taking photos where we can discuss our mistakes and how to improve. Zuzana is so patient, professional and has great creative ideas. It is a great hobby to have and during the pandemic, even when we could not meet, we were given assignments which helped us focus on something fun and interesting instead of worrying about the situation around us. I personally found these very helpful. I am grateful that this group could continue to connect and have fun during our lockdown periods. I remember the first group meeting, over two years ago, we were given the assignment “red” and we had to take photos with something red in it. It is amazing how such a simple task can make you look at the world around you differently. At this point I knew I was going to enjoy attending this group!” – Sandra
“I joined the photography group because it is a fun group of people that enjoy photography. The leader of the group is a very kind and patient professional that shares her valuable experiences with us. Members come from different parts of the world bringing new insight on the project. People from different countries see the art of photography with different eyes and that is what I really enjoy most.” – Bohumila
Gallery
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