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HAPPY snappers have had their work put on display and will be trying out their new-found skills with the camera to capture the beauty of Bahrain.
They were students of the first photography class run by professional, Bahrain-based, freelance cameraman Jody Peck, who is nationally recognised for his photo-journalism, landscapes, editorial and portrait work.
The 12 sessions provided the exploration of the fundamental principles, techniques and application of a professional photographer using a Digital SLR camera within and outside the classroom.
The six students joined their instructor on ‘photo walks’ which were chosen specifically by Mr Peck for photographing particular subjects, including the iconic Bab Al Bahrain Souq and Bahrain Fort.
Students chose their favourite photographs for an exhibition which was staged recently at the Art Centre at the British School of Bahrain (BSB).
Student Beverley West, 41, from Hamala, media liaison officer of the American Women’s Association, said: “My love for photography has come from capturing images for the family album.”
Mrs West, who has lived in Bahrain for seven years and is married with two teenage boys who both attend BSB, added: “Photography is not just seeing an image through one’s own eyes, but with your heart. ‘Happy Days’ from now on.”
Fellow student Karen Arnold said: “I wanted to be able to take real photographs of what my eye sees; with depth, colour, texture, mood and feeling. I have learned a lot from this course and seen my photographic skills develop exponentially.”
Tarryn Patel, 28, a married Kindergarten teacher, who lives in Saar, said: “Growing up in South Africa, on the farmlands of KwaZulu Natal, beauty was something that was all around me.
“From early on we were the models in countless photographs taken by my mum. Over the years the roles were switched and a dormant passion was released. Although enjoying it, I never had any training or direction. Over the past 12 weeks I have learned there is so much more to taking a photo than just ‘aim and shoot’.”
Jameel Al Mozan, 59, married to Dr Maeda Alward, agrees and believes photography is ‘a noble art’. “I always wanted to learn the art of capturing an image,” he said. “This course has inspired me to develop my passion in the field of ‘Growing Cities’ and panoramic views, which I like to explore.”
Pakistan national Mujahid Ali Syed said: “Passion and love for photography was dormant in me for a long time. Finally it has come out thanks to my wife who gave me my first professional camera. Growing up in Pakistan, a country with beautiful landscapes and rich culture, I was always fond of exploring nature and history. This course has given me a boost of confidence to go out with a good knowledge of the trade, explore and experiment even more!”
Tosin Arowojulu, from Janabiya, previously a construction manager for the City of Los Angeles, moved to Bahrain from the US four years ago with her husband Andrew and two sons, Dapo and Seth, both BSB students.
“I developed an interest in photography after receiving my first DSLR camera three years ago as a gift and have become an avid student ever since,” she said.
“I enjoy capturing special moments that showcase the versatility of life wherever I am.”
“Photography is something I want to be better at. This course has given me the tools for doing that,” added Sharon Nicklin, who is married to Matthew. The couple has two daughters Ella, eight, and Freya, six.
Photography instructor Mr Peck added: “With adults from diverse backgrounds (doctors, parents, teachers etc) it was a unique course that got underway. After 12 hours of instruction and three field trips it is amazing at the transformation which has taken place. The photographic exhibition at the end of the course has shown how anyone can master their camera and take absolutely fantastic pictures. I am very proud of all the students and look forward to seeing their work exhibited on the island.”
Chris Jupp, head of business and development and Life, Home & Hobbies at the BSB together with his PA Bobby Gabrielle, spent many months researching all the courses and finding suitable instructors.
Mr Jupp said: “The purpose of the Evening Education programme was to provide opportunities for adults to meet new people whilst developing additional skills and learning new hobbies.
“Over the past six months that we have been running we have seen the interest grow in our programme. Feedback from our course participants has been really positive and we continue to develop new ideas and concepts to meet the numerous suggestions we receive.
“The Evening Education’s Life, Home & Hobbies is truly a community outreach project open to all nationalities and we hope that we can give something back to hard working parents and adults of Bahrain.”
The new course runs for six weeks starting on September 7 from 4pm-6pm costing BD110. Students are required to provide their own DSLR camera during the course, which will include exploring inspirations and how photography can help build a photographer’s eye, understanding how the camera works, aperture, shutter and ISO settings, focusing techniques including use of manual focus and capturing people on camera.
The Life, Home & Hobbies booklet is available through the BSB website, or pick up a copy from the British School of Bahrain or various venues throughout Bahrain, including the Dilmun Club, AMH and Alosra Supermarket. Call 107610973/43 or email academies@thebsbh.com for more information.
