The Influence of the Learning Community on My Photography

In 2016, shortly after I bought my first camera, I began searching for meetup groups focused on photography in Bangalore. My search led me to a group called WalknClick, hosted by Praveen A. George Edwin, also known as Page. This group was a turning point—an entirely new beginning for me as a photographer. The meetups were organized around various themes and often included workshops. These gatherings introduced me to a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who shared my enthusiasm for photography. Many of these connections remain part of my life, continuing to inspire and support me in different ways. Together, we embarked on numerous photo walks and tours, exploring the world through our lenses, sharing ideas, and creating memories.

For many of us, photography was more than a hobby but less than a full-time profession—a shared passion that brought us together. Our gatherings had a simple yet profound structure: we met, we shot, we shared feedback, and we closed with cups of tea or coffee. These interactions were not just about learning the technical aspects of photography but also about building relationships and growing in our artistry. The camaraderie of the group added a layer of depth to every photo walk, transforming each outing into a meaningful experience.

My first meetup with WalknClick | June 2016 (Photo credit: Instagram page of WalknClick)

The exhibitions organized by WalknClick were particularly inspiring. Seeing my photos printed and displayed marked a significant milestone in my journey as a photographer. It transformed the intangible digital images into tangible pieces of art, reaffirming the value of my creative efforts. Holding those printed photographs in my hands gave me a sense of pride and accomplishment. For me, a photo destined for a printed canvas achieves a form of fulfillment—a sense of belonging and purpose. These exhibitions not only celebrated individual achievements but also brought the community closer as we collectively appreciated each other’s work and drew inspiration from diverse perspectives. They reinforced the belief that photography is as much about storytelling as it is about technical mastery.

When I moved to Chile to pursue my PhD, I tried to find a similar photography community in Santiago. Despite my best efforts, I couldn’t find a group that shared the same ethos as WalknClick. So, I decided to create my own community: PhotogChile—Fotografía para todos. Starting this group was both an exciting and challenging endeavor. Navigating a foreign city with limited Spanish skills was daunting, but my passion for photography kept me determined. One of the initial hurdles was finding people who shared the same enthusiasm for photography and convincing them to join. However, the support I received from Diego and Claudio was invaluable. They helped with logistics, language barriers, and spreading the word. Organizing the first few photo walks was particularly rewarding, as it brought together a diverse group of individuals who quickly bonded over their shared love for capturing moments. Watching PhotogChile grow into a vibrant community was one of my proudest accomplishments, and seeing it continue to thrive under Diego’s leadership fills me with immense joy. This initiative became a lifeline for me in a foreign land, providing a sense of belonging and a platform to continue my creative pursuits. It was proof that your photos can speak for you, transcending language barriers and creating connections.

My last meetup with PhotogChile | December 2023 (Photo credit: Instagram page of PhotogChile)

These experiences have shown me the immense potential of learning communities. They taught me to value collaboration, as sharing ideas and receiving constructive feedback improved my creative vision. I honed technical skills, like framing and post-processing, through hands-on workshops and peer discussions. Perhaps most importantly, these communities encouraged me to take risks and experiment, leading to personal growth and deeper artistic expression. The lessons I learned extended beyond photography, shaping how I approach challenges and relationships in all areas of life. A learning community offers a safe space to experiment, fail, and grow—both as an artist and as an individual. For me, photography communities have been instrumental in refining my craft, expanding my worldview, and inspiring me to explore new genres and creative boundaries.

One of the most remarkable aspects of these communities is their ability to bring people together from different walks of life. Whether in Bangalore or Santiago, the bonds formed through photography transcended cultural, linguistic, and geographical barriers. These relationships have enriched my life in countless ways, offering perspectives and experiences that I might never have encountered otherwise. They have taught me that photography is not just about capturing images but about building connections and sharing stories.

As I reflect on this journey, I am reminded of the profound impact of these connections. They have fueled my passion for photography and enriched my life. Whether in Bangalore or Santiago, the learning community has been a cornerstone of my growth, reminding me that photography is as much about people as it is about pictures. This shared journey of discovery is what keeps the art alive, vibrant, and meaningful. It is a testament to the power of collective learning and the enduring magic of photography as a universal language.

"The art of photography blossoms in the shared journey of learning and connection."