“The Art of Composition”, an advanced photography workshop, was held at Manipal Institute of Communication in association with Canon India on the 9th and 10th of October 2025. The workshop was conducted by the acclaimed Senior News Photographer of Udayavani, Mr. Astro Mohan.

In the workshop, Mr. Astro Mohan emphasised the importance of bridging technical precision with storytelling intent through the nuances of composition and balance. Using the concepts learnt in the workshop, the students visited the Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village to practice architectural photography.

He also delivered an insightful session on the challenges faced by photojournalists, drawing from his firsthand experience of covering the Bajpe Airport crash. He reflected on the mental and physical toll of the profession, illustrating how journalists navigate such intense situations while maintaining objectivity. Through his discussion of the 5Ws and 1H framework (Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How), he demonstrated how powerful storytelling through photographs can convey the depth and complexity of tragic events.

Professor Satyabodha Joshi discussed the concept of white balance, emphasizing the importance of the “Zebra Pattern” feature in cameras and how it facilitates setting the correct exposure.

A jury comprising Mr. Satyabodha Joshi, Mr. C. Manikandan, and Mr. Astro Mohan evaluated the photographs captured by students during their visit to Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village, offering insightful feedback and constructive critique.

Keshav Kaushal (MAMC I) bagged the first prize, Sanjana Nayak U (BAGDM) secured second place, and Deepthi K. Bhat and Sthavishta Potti (BAMC II) received the jury awards.

This workshop was presided over by Dr. Shubha HS, the director of Manipal Institute of Communication, and Coordinated by Mr. C. Manikandan, the faculty Coordinator.