DEVELOPING BUDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Nikon helps to immerse students into the world of photography

30 students from Mun Choong Primary School in Kuala Lumpur recently got to see the world from a different perspective through the lens of a camera, thanks to a collaboration between the school’s Photography Club and the Nikon Club.

The initiative allowed students, teachers and parents to immerse themselves into the world of photography and help them immortalize precious moments in life through a photography workshop held at the Nikon Centre at Berjaya Times Square, Kuala Lumpur.

Participants were given the opportunity to experience and discover the endless possibilities of photography through the various Nikon products on display, which they were allowed to use in order to familiarize themselves with the latest technology. This was followed by a presentation by Albert Yap, Senior Nikon Professional Services Executive, who provided participants with valuable insights into effectively capitalizing features within these products to capture the best possible photographs.

The visit to the Nikon Centre was part of the weekly sessions organized by the school’s Photography Club, which includes workshops and practical excursions during which student members could put their newly-learned skills into practice. The visit to the Nikon Centre was the first activity in 2015.

The Mun Choong Photography Club was established in 2012 by former teacher Liew Cheng Hun, 38, with the objective of introducing students to the world of photography. Although no longer with the school, Liew, armed with his passion for the students, still takes charge of the club even today.

 “These weekly sessions not only develop students’ photography skills, but improve their self-esteem and observation. Students who participate in photography are generally more observant and they tend to be more focused in their studies. We have students who have also been recognized for outstanding work or by winning photography awards and competitions. This in turn, helps to boost their confidence and motivates them to excel further,” said Liew.

“Today’s students have a lot going on in their lives, from rushing homework, to revising lessons to going for tuition and extracurricular activities. They live in a competitive society. There is no doubt that these weekly photography sessions allow them to escape their hectic lifestyles to just enjoy the world around them. Photography is a stress-free world allowing children to express their viewpoints creatively to adults.  I believe students learn better when they are calm. So, stepping out of the classroom indeed provides them with some recreational respite. ” Liew added.

Liew’s efforts in championing the school’s Photography Club have not been in vain. Many of its members have taken well to the club’s activities. They include 11-year-old Heung Joe Jac who recently won himself a camera through a photography competition organized by Chinese daily Nanyang Siang Pau, bringing him one step closer to his dream.

“I am glad to be part of this photography club and I want to be a professional photographer,” said Heung, who developed his interest in photography by watching his mother, an avid photographer who captures beautiful photographs of flowers in his home garden.

“Today, I learnt how to take light into account while capturing good photos. Light is a crucial element in photography and I know how to play around with light now. To further improve, I also read photography magazines or books bought by my mother and practice these learnt skills during my free time. I also consult my mother or teachers if I encounter any problems,” Heung added.

Parents of students, too, seem to realize the positive effects that the Photography Club has on its student members.

“I am glad that my daughter has finally found something that she is passionate about. Through photography, she now has another option for a potential career path. I hope that by engaging my child in this field, she can express herself further through pictures,” said Ng Hock Yit, mother of a participant at the visit to Nikon Centre.

David Ng, Nikon Malaysia General Manager, Consumer Products agrees that age is no barrier to taking great photographs, and it is never too early to be introduced to the world of photography.

“Children, in fact, sometimes have an advantage,” explained David. “Unlike adults, children do not think or analyze much while talking photos, allowing them to explore and develop their own practical understanding of photography. During this session with the Photography Club and even at Nikon Club, we give members a balanced experience, combining both theoretical and practical aspects to holistically develop their skills.”

“There was a time when photography was a luxury for an elite few. But thanks to the development in technology, now everyone can truly enjoy the art and science of photography, which we champion at the Nikon Club. There is also a great demand to develop photographic skills among the younger generation. Children spend more time with technology than they do with friends, families and nature. They are more resilient and tech savvy compared to our generation. They can spend hours in front of digital devices. However, photography helps them explore the world around them,” he added.

The Nikon Club welcomes new members any time of the year. Those interested in joining can find further details and register online through the club’s website at www.nikonclub.com.my.