– by Shuvai M. Shumba, BCJ, 5th Semester
A one-day photography masterclass, under the theme “The Art of Visual Storytelling,” was organized in Campus 18 of KIIT Deemed to be University for the students of the School of Mass Communication (KSMC) and the School of Film & Media Sciences (KSFMS) on 23 July 2026. It was a YOOF Initiative, in collaboration with Fujifilm India as the equipment partner. The programme aimed to strengthen students’ practical photography skills while deepening their understanding of visual storytelling through expert-led sessions and hands-on experience with professional-grade camera equipment.
Mr. Susanta Bahinipati, Assistant Professor, School of Film & Media Sciences, served as the Convenor of the workshop. He played a key role in strengthening industry–academia collaboration by bringing together KIIT, YOOF and Fujifilm India to equip students with real-world learning experiences. The Dean of KSFT, KSFMS and KSMC, Dr. Rajeev Kumar Panda addressed the gathering by welcoming the participants with encouraging words. This was followed by formal addresses from the Head of KSFMS, Prof. Ganeswara Mohapatra and Head of KSMC, Dr. Bidu Bhusan Dash.
Mr. Aritra Das, Technical Evangelist at Fujifilm India, conducted the masterclass, introducing participants to the fundamentals of exposure, lens optics, composition, visual storytelling and post-processing. Students gained practical experience with Fujifilm’s latest mirrorless camera systems and professional lenses through a live demonstration, enabling them to apply theoretical concepts in real-world settings.
More than 100 students expressed their enthusiasm and excitement for the programme through dynamic interaction and active participation. Additionally, 20 school students from D.A.V. Public School, Kalinga Nagar and D.A.V. Public School, Unit VIII attended the workshop as part of an outreach initiative, engaging in learning sessions, expert guidance and practical photography exercises alongside the university students.
Established in India in 2007 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Fujifilm Holdings Corporation, Tokyo, Fujifilm India is a leading imaging technology company offering solutions across digital cameras and instant camera systems, medical imaging, graphic printing, data storage and industrial products. Its support for the workshop provided students with practical exposure to professional imaging technologies and equipment.
All participants received certificates of participation, while selected photographs captured during the workshop will be considered for publication in YOOF Magazine. The masterclass highlighted KIIT’s commitment to experiential learning and its continued efforts to collaborate with leading industry partners to enhance students’ creative, technical and professional competencies in photography and visual media.
