In 2017, The Confluence Collective (TCC) organized an intensive seven-day photography workshop designed for photographers with a technical foundation in digital photography. The workshop focused on visual storytelling, encouraging participants to move beyond technical proficiency and explore narrative-driven photography. Participants were guided to create a cohesive body of work over the course of the program, enhancing their ability to tell compelling stories through the lens.
The aim was to introduce participants to a variety of visual styles and languages, pushing them to develop narratives that reflect their personal experiences and perspectives. This was an opportunity for photographers to explore the deeper meaning behind their subjects and tell stories that resonate with emotion and context.
During the seven days, seven participants explored Kalimpong through their own eyes, hearts, and minds. The workshop pushed the photographers to examine not only the town’s landscapes but also its people, culture, and emotions. From local bars to family homes, snooker clubs to contemplative moments, the participants captured the essence of Kalimpong—questioning meaning and symbol in everyday life.
The program concluded with a public presentation, where participants showcased their work and received constructive feedback from mentors.
Workshop Details:
Date: 9–16 April 2017
Venue: Himalaya Photo Gallery, Kalimpong
Language: Nepali + English Mentors:
Prasiit Sthapit
Kishor Sharma
Both mentors brought years of experience to the workshop, sharing their insights on visual storytelling, editing, and presentation. They also showcased their own works, offering examples of narrative photography that guided the participants through the process.
The 2017 Photography Workshop successfully created a space for emerging photographers from the Darjeeling-Sikkim region to hone their skills and explore new methods of visual storytelling. The immersive experience allowed participants to connect deeply with Kalimpong, offering a platform for creative growth and cultural exploration. The Confluence Collective is committed to continuing such initiatives, empowering local photographers and preserving the visual heritage of the region.
The following participants took part in the workshop:
Birat Rai – Kalimpong
Brihat Rai – Kalimpong
Bhaskar Thapa – Kurseong
Ashwin Sharma – Kalimpong
Kunga Tashi – Gangtok
Shivam Darnal – Darjeeling
Manzar Khan – Kurseong
About the Mentors:
Prasiit Sthapit (b. 1988) is a visual storyteller based in Kathmandu. In 2016, he received the Magnum Emergency Fund Grant and was selected for the World Press Photo Joop Swart Masterclass. He is currently associated with Fuzz Factory Productions, a multimedia collective based in Kathmandu.
Kishor Sharma (b. 1983) is a freelance documentary photographer based in Kathmandu. In 2013, he completed an advanced visual storytelling course at the Danish School of Media and Journalism. His work on Nepali nomads won him the Asia Prize at the Photo City Sagamihara Awards in 2014, held in Sagamihara, Japan.
About the Organizers:
The Confluence Collective (TCC) was formed with a deep-rooted commitment to preserving and reimagining the histories of the Darjeeling-Sikkim Himalayan region. We are a collective of researchers and artists focused on archiving and retelling the stories of the people and communities that make up this unique region. The Darjeeling-Sikkim Himalayas have been deeply influenced by colonial history, and our efforts to decolonize begin by acknowledging this reality. Our collective strives to reframe the narratives of hill societies—offering fresh ways to see and imagine this place through local stories and histories.
photo.circle Established in 2007, photo.circle is a leading platform for photography in Nepal, aimed at fostering creative voices in visual storytelling. Through workshops, exhibitions, publications, and commissioned projects, photo.circle has played a significant role in documenting and engaging with social change in Nepal. The platform also organizes Photo Kathmandu, Nepal’s only international photography festival, providing a space for visual storytellers to exchange ideas with local audiences.
Website: www.photocircle.com.np FINAL PRESENTATION OF THE PARTICIPANTS:
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