Thirteen community groups in Harrow have recently completed an engaging photography training course led by professional photographer and university lecturer, Niaz Maleknia.
The training, aimed at enhancing the participants’ ability to capture the essence and impact of their work, was provided free of charge by Harrow Giving as part of the Harrow Photographer of the Year project.
Ros Jenkins, Communications and Engagement Manager for Harrow Giving, noted the importance of this initiative, stating, “Photos can really bring the great work these groups do to life, helping to raise more donations and support. But small charities can’t afford to have a professional photographer on standby all the time! So, we decided to do the next best thing and give staff and volunteers from these groups the skills to take great photographs themselves.”
The training focused on reportage photography, which involves taking photos that tell a story and evoke strong emotions. Participants learned to create powerful and meaningful images, a skill that Flaviana Manta from RCCT (Romanian Culture and Charity Together) found particularly valuable. She said, “I loved this project – it was a privilege meeting everyone and Niaz was a wonderful person, teaching skills that are really valuable.”
Following the training, some participants are eager to apply their new skills by entering the Harrow Photographer of the Year competition. This year’s theme, ‘This is our Story’, encourages entrants to submit photos accompanied by a description of the story or memory behind the image.
The competition is open to everyone, including those using smartphone cameras, and the deadline for entries is 1st August. Submissions can be made via the Harrow Giving website at www.harrowgiving.org.uk/photographer.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
He launched Harrow Online in 2010 as a Facebook page sharing local news and information. Since then, it has grown into a trusted source for breaking news, crime, council decisions, planning, transport, business and community stories across the borough.
Harrow Online reaches hundreds of thousands of readers each month and has a social media audience of more than 200,000 followers.
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