Canon sparks enthusiasm for photography at professional workshop in Kenya

 Canon, a world leader in imaging solutions hosted its fourth professional photography workshop in Nairobi from 1st December – 7th December, 2015, as part of its commitment to the communities in which it operates. The week-long session, held in partnership with the Kenyatta University, sparked the minds of 10 young, aspiring photographers who jointly explored the art of storytelling their home country of Kenya, during the course of the programme.   

In keeping with Canon’s ‘Kyosei’ philosophy of living and working together for the common good, Canon has undertaken an array of youth-based initiatives across the Middle East and Africa. The workshop, hosted by the world renowned photojournalist Gary Knight, a Canon Master, was organised to provide the participants with the opportunity to a gain new and greater understanding of the technicalities of editing, along with the subtleties and nuances of capturing beautiful images whilst having access to Canon equipment. 

A number of workshop lectures were conducted by Gary Knight, with the support of Canon employees, in addition, to a series of guest lectures, aimed at inspiring the participants. 

On 1st December, Joan Pereruan, Group Photo Editor at the Nation Media Group,   Treasurer & Founder of the Photojournalists Association of Kenya, gave a lecture on her experiences and knowledge about the industry, and what makes a strong image. She also spoke about the ethics and code of conduct which you should practice as a photographer.  Thereafter, Victor Peace, Professional Fashion & Travel photographer, spoke on his career and experience to date, and how one can make a living from photography, while Georgina Goodwin, Professional Photojournalist & Kenyan News Photographer of the Year 2013, spoke on her experiences and knowledge about the industry and why it’s important to share and tell your stories in society. 

Gathoni Kinyanjui was the student guest lecturer from the previous workshop and discussed her experiences on the workshop and her career, thereafter. 

Anurag Agrawal, Managing Director, Canon Middle East said: “Canon is keen to nurture the youth in the Middle East and Africa. Our equipment is known all over the world by amateur and professional photographers, alike. With these workshops, participants have access to high quality instruction that could lead them to lifelong careers in photography. We know Africa is brimming with creative talent, it’s just a question of drawing it out.”

Professor Thairu, coordinator at the School of Creative Arts, Film and Media Studies, Kenyatta University, said: “The Canon Workshop held at Kenyatta University is a great opportunity which demonstrates that Kenyatta University, through its Department of Film and Theatre Arts, is without reasonable doubt, a progressive and proactive university. Simultaneously, it allows Canon to continue popularising and entrenching itself as the preferred makers of photography equipment in East Africa."

Commenting on the workshop initiative, Gary Knight said: “This is the fourth Canon workshop I have led in Africa.  I love coming to this part of the world as young photographers are full of hope and commitment for a better future in the Arts. Introducing these young men and women to the best quality camera equipment, shooting and editing techniques is a real joy.”

Canon Middle East serves as an active partner in the communities it operates in, by working with governments, scientific, academic, humanitarian, and arts and culture organisations, to integrate corporate social responsibility across all elements of the business.