A unique heritage photography workshop led by internationally acclaimed photographer and curator Richard Wilding.

The programme includes day and evening photography sessions in which participants will capture the region’s traditional architecture, artisanal crafts and vibrant souks.

In addition to the technical aspects of photography, participants will be led through the process of selecting and editing their images, and discuss potential opportunities and uses for heritage photography.

This workshop aims to develop skills in the documentation and promotion of architectural and cultural heritage through photography. The course is aimed primarily at photographers with intermediate to advanced technical knowledge who wish to apply their skills to the photography of heritage. It is also suitable for heritage enthusiasts and professionals who wish to develop their technical skills in photography.

The programme consists of 5 sessions over two consecutive days, with a total duration of 12 hours. A maximum of 8 participants will be accepted to ensure that individual attention is given to each photographer. The language of instruction is English.

OVERVIEW OF MODULES

Day 1, Morning (3 hours)
The first session will begin with an introduction to the workshop objectives and schedule, followed by a review of how heritage has been recorded and promoted historically and in the contemporary era. A discussion will then focus on the purpose of heritage photography and some of the challenges to be overcome.

The session will continue with a technical and creative brief, covering the most important camera settings. Discussions will include the appropriate times of day and night for heritage photography, and the options for natural and artificial lighting. The session will conclude with the preparation of equipment for sessions two and three.

Day 1, Afternoon (2 hours) Golden Hour (1 hour)
The second session will consist of daytime photography of the region’s traditional architecture and heritage sites (tangible cultural heritage). A selection of outdoor and indoor locations will give participants an opportunity to capture a variety of different subjects, architectural styles and materials. Participants will be encouraged to use natural lighting to enhance the character and authenticity of their photographs.

Day 1, Evening Twilight (1 hour)
The third session will feature night-time photography of the region’s artisanal crafts and vibrant souqs. This session will focus on heritage that involves human activity (intangible cultural heritage), such as the making of palm-leaf baskets, handmade abayas and the trading of spices, henna, incense and perfumes.

Day 2, Morning (2 hours)
The second day will begin with a group discussion about the locations visited and themes explored on day one. Participants will then begin to review and select their best photographs, learning how to use Adobe Bridge or Lightroom to rank their images.

The session will continue with the editing and adjustment of images in Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom, with guidance from the instructor on how to get the most out of these applications. The training will focus on the processing and adjustment of photographs in the ‘raw’ image format, demonstrating how typical challenges with contrast and exposure can be overcome.

Day 2, Afternoon (2 hours)
The final session will give participants an opportunity to present their selection of photographs for review by the group, or one-on-one review with the instructor. Participants will be encouraged to think about how they can identify and develop future photographic projects focusing on cultural heritage.

Discussions will focus on the different heritage issues that can be documented through photography such as restoration, cultural identity and community engagement, as well as the artistic and commercial opportunities including academic documentation, publications, exhibitions and tourism marketing.