In the last decade, Kathmandu has grown into a creative hub. Today, the Valley houses more creatives and art enthusiasts than it ever did before. The number of younger and grittier artists, writers, producers, and photographers is at an all time high.

With the growing accessibility of both smart camera-phones and DSLR cameras, photography in general, and street photography more so, has become a field that this very crowd is easily drawn to. Even when it has always been around, street photography is ‘trending’ of late.

With an aim to further catalyse this trend, an intensive three-day photography workshop has kicked off in the Capital, on Saturday. Organised by Sattya Media Arts Collective within and around its premises, the Street photography workshop aims to share more tricks and tips, and some technical knowledge with its participants under instructor Rabik Upadhyay.

The participants will take on to streets of Patan to learn how to approach strangers, and to overcome the fear of taking photos on the go, alongside understanding the basics of composition and mastering available light. They will also gain insight on ethics of street photography and analysis of the decisive moment. At the end of the day, they will reflect on their work, discuss ways to improve the technique and imagery, and play with photo-editing tools.

“Nowadays with the availbility of decent camera-phones, street photography has gained popularity,” says Upadhyay, who has been taking candid and abstract photographs for the last four years. “Composition and timing are key aspects of the craft, but also a keen pair of eyes.”

The workshop will conclude on Monday.