Looking through the lens

By Ranjan K Baruah

All of us want to keep memories captured in some forms. One of the best sources of keeping memories is photographs. Photographs or photography have been integral part of one’s life. But with the progress of science and technology there have been changes in photography. Now it has become easy for many to click easily and save the photographs for a long period of time or publish it according to their need.
With the explosion of the communication network, the growth of advertising and media and the fashion boom, and digital photography, it has now become a profession with great commercial value. Photos are an essential part in both print and electronic media. So this is an area offering great scope for those who have an interest and attributes needed to be a professional.
The best part is someone with less academic qualification may also excel in this field.Being a creative medium, photography requires more of inherent talent for success than formal training and exposure.
There are no specific academic requirements for full-time courses in photography; however, candidates who have cleared the 10+2 exam are eligible for the diploma/certificate courses in photography.
But to be successful photographers it is always advisable to do formal college or higher studies which bring more value to the individual. Photography is also offered as an optional subject for a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts. Besides the academic requirements, having a background in computers or electronics, related work experience and training is beneficial for making a break in the field.
Besides photo journalists, there are feature photography, commercial/ industrial photographer, advertising photographs, fashion photography, fine arts photographers, digital photography, nature and wildlife photography, wedding photographer, kids photographer, forensic photography, etc.
Some of the courses associated with photography are Certificate Course in Advanced Photography, Basic Photography, Digital Photography, Fashion Photography, Photo Journalism, Photography or some special diploma programme in Fashion Photography, Professional Photography, etc. One needs to have some of the good qualities to excel in this field. Communication skill is important at the same time command over English language and other language is always considered as added feature.
There is scope for this profession in places like Meghalaya as the state’s rich biodiversity and culture is to be known by people outside the state. People who are photographers can click the pictures and send it to various sources through which they can earn name and fame.
Using appropriate technology is must as that helps someone to prove his or her talent through photography. Successful photographers are always in demand by people or various departments. Freelancing has been always a good option for the photographers as they can explore more with this but they need to be good in networking so that people know about them.

(Ranjan K Baruah is a career mentor and can be reached at [email protected] or 98640 55558 for any career related queries. )