Doha, Qatar: The Syrian Visual Arts Association in Qatar has organised a photography training workshop aimed at helping enthusiasts develop their technical skills and take their first steps towards professional photography.
The workshop, titled “Photography Basics: Your First Step Towards Professionalism”, was conducted by Dr. Abdul Razzaq Ouda Bashi (pictured), with the participation of photography enthusiasts and people interested in visual arts from among citizens and residents.
The initiative, organised under the umbrella of the Syrian Community Council in Qatar, forms part of the association’s efforts to promote artistic culture, nurture creative talents and encourage community participation in cultural and artistic activities.
The workshop introduced participants to the technical and artistic fundamentals of photography, covering key elements of exposure, including aperture, shutter speed and ISO sensitivity. It also addressed artistic composition, lighting control and selecting appropriate shooting angles to improve photographic quality and develop participants’ creative vision.
Combining theoretical explanations with practical exercises, the session gave participants an opportunity to explore camera capabilities and learn how to use different settings to produce photographs with better technical and artistic quality.
The trainer also highlighted the importance of continuous practice and experimentation in developing photography skills and progressing from an amateur level towards greater professionalism.
Dr Abdul Razzaq Ouda Bashi said photography goes beyond simply operating a camera and taking pictures, describing it as a comprehensive visual language based on understanding light, composition and the ability to explore details through a creative perspective.
“We sought through this workshop to simplify the basic concepts of photography and present them in an interactive manner that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, helping participants understand the camera’s technical tools and use them creatively,” he said.
“Every photographer has a unique vision, and the journey towards professionalism begins with mastering the basics and continuing to learn, practise and experiment,” he added.
Chairman of the Syrian Visual Arts Association in Qatar Eng Waseem Al Khader, said the workshop reflects the association’s and the Syrian Community Council’s commitment to strengthening the Syrian community’s positive cultural and artistic presence and contributing to Qatar’s cultural and social landscape.
He said the association seeks to build bridges of communication and cooperation between Syrian artists and creative talents and their Qatari counterparts, as well as residents of different nationalities, believing in the role of arts in bringing cultures closer and promoting community interaction.
Al Khader also expressed appreciation for the safe and stimulating environment Qatar provides for creativity and its support for culture and the arts, noting the country’s efforts to embrace cultural diversity and encourage interaction among different communities.