The Fundamentals of Narrative & Documentary Photography
One week workshop in Himachal Pradesh - India
Dharamsala - 21/28th of September '25
This intensive one-week workshop will immerse participants in the fundamentals of narrative and documentary photography.
Through a combination of image analysis, hands-on fieldwork, and open discussions, participants will refine their photographic perspectives and storytelling abilities.
The workshop will also emphasize the importance of a global photography community, encouraging dialogue through the exchange and review of work.
The workshop, led by Ahmad Shaqlain and François Struzik, aims to welcome participants from India and Europe, providing a platform for sharing diverse perspectives.
Who is this workshop for?
For photographers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced, who are eager to elevate their photography.
This workshop is entirely focused on your growth as a photographer.
The workshop will be conducted in English.
Participants will come from India and Europe.
What kind of workshop?
This workshop focuses on work in the field, presentations, discussions, meeting and editing session.
We will also work together on your pictures, on your editing and your workflow.
What is included?
- 7 full days of workshop in Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh - India.
- Half board (lunches, snacks, tea & coffee).
The price is set at 520€
Travel to India and Dharamsala
- We can help with finding an accommodation In Dharamsala.
- You can reach Dharamsala from Delhi by road or by air.
What are the goals of this workshop?
Enhance your skills in photography on the field and in the narrative process:
- Develop a strong foundation in narrative and documentary photography
- Gain hands-on experience in creating a cohesive photographic story
- Learn to critically analyze and sequence images effectively
- Engage with global and regional photography communities
- Build confidence in the ability to tell meaningful stories through photography
- Find places and topics that matter to your photography and an approach to embrace them.
What is the methodology?
- Outings in interesting places and work in the field.
- Critical readings of photographs
- Group discussions
- Work on a personal assignment to be showcased at the end of the workshop
- Work together on your pictures and editing.
- Content on the workflow, project management and technique.
- Small group of max 10 people.
- 1 to 1 discussion on your photography.
How to apply?
To apply for the workshop, please submit the following materials to learning by XX 2025:
- Letter of Motivation (300–500 words): Introduce yourself and explain why you wish to participate in this program.
- Updated CV: Include relevant experience and background.
- Portfolio: Submit 10–20 images that showcase your storytelling abilities. (Images should be 1000px on the longest side, 72 dpi, and named in the following format: LASTNAME_01.jpg.)
We look forward to your application!
The workshop will be conducted by:
Ahmad Shaqlain
photographer - India
Ahmad Shaqulain is a photographer based in New Delhi, India, whose work is deeply personal and reflective.
A graduate of Sri Aurobindo Centre for Arts and Communication, he explores the shifting nature of identity through experimentation and journaling. His current project, an ongoing photobook, delves into self-identity by revisiting his family archive and personal belongings, weaving memory and history into a visual narrative.
@shaqulain
François Struzik
photographer - Belgium
François Struzik is a photo-reporter focusing mainly on documentary photography.
Committed to long-term projects, he explores social, religious, and gender issues, covering topics like dockworkers' working conditions, Sufism, Jerusalem’s Way of
the Cross, and boxing girls.
His documentary approach is rooted in the photographer’s engagement, seeking to understand the world by blending aesthetics with social reflection.
@simplyhumanphotography
