Aranyakam Nature Foundation conducted a photography workshop for field biologists in collaboration with Idukki Wildlife Division at Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary at Thattekkad from 16 to 18 September 2022. The workshop aimed to equip field biologists with better photography skills to improve the documentation of their research subjects. Research scholars from various universities in Kerala participated in the three-day workshop.

Mr Ouseph Inagurating the session
Keynote Address by Dr PS Easa

Mr. Ouspeh,  Assistant Wildlife Warden, Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, inaugurated the workshop, and Dr. PS Easa, chairman of Aranyakam Nature Foundation, delivered the keynote address. 

Dr. Jomy Augustine explained various aspects of photographing plants in the field during the workshop, Dr. Rajkumar KP, an experienced field herpetologist, covered the crucial points in photographing animals, and Dr. Sandeep Das, Assistant Professor, St Joseph’s College Irinjalakuda, provided an extensive session on macro photography in research.

Dr Jomy Augustine explaining how to photographing plants
Dr Sandeep Das on Macrophotography in Research
Dr Rajkumar KP on photographing fauna

Mr. Ameer KP, an expert in user experience design, covered both theory and practicals of photography post-processing, and Mr. Abhilash Ravindran explained various techniques and methods in habitat photography. Finally, Mr. Abdul Riyas, Associate Professor, Government Arts and Science College, Kozhikode, elaborated on practicing ethics in wildlife photography.

Talk on habitat photography by Abhilash Ravindran
Post-processing photos by Ameer KP
Ethics in wildlife photography by Abdul Riyas

Dr. Rajkumar, Mr. Nihal Jabin, Mr. Abhilash Ravindran, Mr. Abdul Riyas, Mr. Ameer KP, and Mr. Javad K led the practical field sessions.

The valedictory function of the workshop was graced with a keynote address by Shri Ganga Singh IFS, Chief Wildlife Warden of Kerala.  Idukki wildlife warden Mr. B. Rahul and Thattekkad Assistant Wildlife Warden Mr. Ouseph were also present during the occasion.

Welcome by B Rahul, Wildlife Warden, Idukki
Chief Wildlife Warden Ganga Singh IFS
Workshop team with Chief Wildlife Warden and Wildlife Warden of Idukki