Photo journalism skills strengthened in Azerbaijan
Last weekend saw a wealth of activity at the IMS supported Azerbaijan Youth Media Center, as digital media expert and experienced photo journalist Emin Huseynov, delivered two days of intensive photo journalistic training
Celia Davies, Institute for Reporters’ Freedom and Safety, Baku.
Teaching young photographers their rights
As an underdeveloped part of Azerbaijan’s media sector, very few public photo journalism courses are available. Seeking to fill this gap, the training covered a number of skills, including both technical and legal aspects of photo-journalism.
Aside from creative skills training, the course was also a response to photo journalists’ needs to know their legal rights, as they are often faced with legal challenges. A recent controversial amendment to the constitution that forbids the audio recording, videotaping, and photographing of individuals without prior consent is one such challenge.
Boosting skills of youth media enthusiasts
Following a dynamic weekend packed with new information and ideas, participants went home full of enthusiasm about the opportunities their newly acquired skills provide.
Experienced photo journalist and IRFS Director, Emin Huseynov, noted an impressive level of commitment demonstrated by the young people, and their interest in synergies between different multimedia platforms.
“I have always been interested in developing my photography hobby, so I was really excited when I saw the Facebook posting about this training. I was interested in learning how to use basic equipment like my mobile phone to take the best possible photos. I hadn’t thought this would be possible, but Mr. Huseynov showed me how to edit and enhance the photos online,” said Aynur Mammadova, a 23 year old university student.
Another participant, 18-year-old Azad Abdiyev, has been documenting Baku’s construction boom over the past two years.
“The training at IRFS was a great opportunity to network with other young photo enthusiasts and to share tips. I learned how to make better use of light in my photos of new buildings,” he said.
The Azerbaijan Youth Media Center at the Institute for Reporters’ Freedom and Safety has been running since February, providing a dynamic, open, and inclusive space for young people to develop ideas about new media journalism and to produce their own work. The workshop on photo journalism was the latest in a series of multimedia trainings.
