Sri Vijaya Puram, November 13: Local youth in Shaheed Dweep are being trained in professional photography, videography and specialised imaging techniques under an eight-day certification programme aimed at developing skills for tourism-related enterprises and expanding opportunities for self-employment.
The Department of Tourism, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Photography (IIP), Noida, launched the programme under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) scheme, a World Bank-supported initiative focused on strengthening micro, small and medium enterprises.
The training brings together 68 participants from Shaheed Dweep and covers camera operation, professional photography, videography, post-production, drone imaging and specialised fields such as underwater and astrophotography.
Faculty members Aasif Khan and Garima Chaudhary from IIP Noida are conducting practical sessions designed to familiarise participants with professional equipment, photographic techniques and industry practices.
The opening day’s training focused on camera fundamentals, including the exposure triangle of aperture, shutter speed and ISO. Participants also received instruction in camera handling, ergonomics and exposure metering, with practical exercises demonstrating how cameras respond to different lighting conditions.
The programme extends beyond basic photography skills to include technical areas relevant to the islands’ tourism landscape. Its curriculum incorporates underwater imaging and drone photography, alongside videography and post-production, providing participants exposure to multiple professional disciplines.
The initiative aims to improve the technical capabilities of local youth and prepare them to establish viable enterprises. It also seeks to facilitate their transition into the organised business sector through formal registration as micro, small and medium enterprises, in keeping with the objectives of the RAMP scheme.
The training comes against the backdrop of tourism activity across the islands, where photography and videography services cater to visitors seeking to document their experiences at coastal destinations and marine locations.
By developing a pool of locally trained photographers and videographers, the programme also seeks to improve the availability of professional imaging services for tourists visiting the islands.
The eight-day course combines classroom instruction with hands-on training, covering both conventional photography techniques and specialised imaging applications. The Tourism Department and IIP are conducting the programme as a skill-development intervention intended to connect local talent with potential enterprise opportunities in the tourism sector.
