Photography workshop: VARANASI, the city of Gods. 24th – 28th Jan 2024

Please join me for a long weekend of exploration and photography in one of my favorite cities. This is NOT your typical historical walking tour. I am here to peel back the layers of one of the oldest living cities in the world through our lenses. We will brush up against history at the ghats and witness the profound connection the people have to their sacred river, the Ganges. I will share hidden gems which I have discovered over more than 20 trips I have made to this spiritually charged center.

Photography is the most commonly spoken and understood language in the world. There are more photographs taken today than any time in history. Whether you only shoot with your smartphone or are an avid photographer, this journey is curated for you.

Varanasi is bursting with story. This deep emotion depth and spiritual resonance is what attracts millions of visitors and pilgrims a year. It’s a city that has touched my soul and a place that keeps calling me again and again. Having shot Varanasi for over a decade, I have seen its many moods. Beyond its religious significance, it offers a diverse cultural treasure trove of subjects: the wrestler, the priest, the loom weaver and the Vedic student, among a plethora more. The narrow alleys running through the city reveal a tapestry of traditions. From bustling street markets to the enchanting sounds of traditional music, every corner conveys a unique story.

Varanasi has become the canvas for several of my ongoing photography projects. This continuous exploration ensures that my work from Varanasi remains a living narrative, a reflection of this cities ever evolving soul. It is in this spirit of creativity and adventure that I am hosting this intimate workshop. This trip will be a transformative experience that extends beyond technical proficiency and the excitement of visiting a new place. It will also foster an appreciation for photography and its immense ability to share stories wherever we find ourselves.

I hope you will join me in January. Spots tend to fill quickly so please do RSVP. If you have any questions please reach out. Here are some practical things to prepare you.

About Rohit Vohra

He is one of Asia’s most prominent street photographers. His works have appeared in numerous Newspapers/ Magazines all over the world. He is co-founder APF magazine and has also worked as a director of photography for a recent Apple cricket World cup campaign.

His distinctive style, combining technical skill with artistic flair, sets him apart and makes him the ideal guide for photographers aspiring to elevate their craft.

Duration and Schedule

25th -28th Jan 2024. Workshop starts on 25th January 4:00pm and ends 28th January 4:00 pm

The workshop spans 4 days, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the Varanasi experience. The schedule includes a mix of classroom sessions, practical shooting assignments, and opportunities for one-on-one interaction with Rohit Vohra.

Limited to 5-6 Participants

Unlike large, impersonal workshops, this journey is intentionally limited to 5-6 participants. This ensures an intimate setting where each participant receives personalized attention, fostering a conducive environment for learning. I will show you a side of Varanasi which would be difficult for an outsider to find. As we visit various places I will help you develop your photographic eye. With the world becoming increasingly more visually minded, street photography will be a great skill to bring home.

Location and Practical Sessions

Practical sessions include street photography, portrait shoots, and documenting daily life along the Ganges. Apart from the workshop sessions, participants will have the opportunity to explore Varanasi’s lesser-known corners. Hidden gems, off the beaten path, present additional opportunities for capturing the authentic spirit of the city. Regardless of skill level at the onset the personal nature of this workshop with short classes and guided walks is bound to improve your photography. 

What Participants Will Learn

Participants can expect to enhance their skills in composition, lighting, the use of equipment and most of all visual storytelling. Beyond technicalities, I will guide each participant in developing their artistic vision. Exploring creative angles, understanding storytelling through images, and capturing emotions are key elements that will be emphasized throughout the workshop. Participants will learn about my thought process, the stories behind my photographs, and how I navigate the dynamic environment of street photography.

Important Dates and Deadlines

Applicants should be mindful of the deadlines and other important dates. Given the limited slots, early registrations are encouraged to confirm your spot and also hotel accommodations.

Last date to register is 25th Dec 2023

What do you need :

You don’t need a fancy DSLR or lenses, I will be happy to work with the equipment you already own. A smartphone will also do. So any camera that takes pictures, a film camera will also do, as long as you can develop and share the photographs with me.

Price : 

Workshop and stay charges : $1995/ 1,66,000 (+ 18% GST)

Workshop is limited to a maximum of 5-6 participants.

Includes :

• Workshop charges
• Hotel pick up and drop
• Single occupancy Hotel stay in a 5 star property for 3 nights and 4 days.
• All meals in 5 star hotel buffets / soft drinks
• Entry tickets to all Temples and Heritage sites.
• All local travel in Varanasi in private cabs
• Boat rides

Excludes:
– Return domestic/ international air ticket
– Any private expenses
– Room service charges
– Porter services
– 18% GST
– Visa fees (if applicable)
– Personal travel insurance (compulsory; self-purchase)

How to book your spot : 

To book your spot, you will need to send me an email at rohit@artphotofeature.com

Please feel free to mail me regarding any doubts or clarifications regarding the workshop.

Cancelation Policy : 

• If the workshop is cancelled due to any reasons, full refund will be issued to the participant.
• If a participant cancels for any reason before 10th Jan, 30% of the workshop fee charges will be deducted.
• If a participant cancels for any reason on or after 11th Jan, 60% fee will be deducted. The balance 40% will be forwarded towards any future workshop.