Capturing the Culture

About the Program

Capturing the Culture is an eight week intensive learning and portfolio building program open to emerging photographers working in, or transitioning into events-based photography. This program is for emerging photographers interested in capturing arts & cultural events including musical performances, theatre productions, exhibitions openings, networking events, showcases, artistic presentations, and more.

Capturing the Culture will allow artist to receive hands-on training in event photography to develop their technical, event photography skills, such as working with difficult lighting, best practices in capturing various skin tones, positioning, and more. Participants will also have the opportunity to utilize software (including Adobe Lightroom) to build their post-production skills. Capturing the Culture will also feature an industry talk, discussing working as an independent contract, media photo placements, building connections, and more. During the program, participants will attend one off-site event as a group, accompanied by the facilitator, to apply what they’ve learned during the program and build their professional portfolios.

Program participants will be required to provide their own DSLR camera. Post-production software (Adobe Lightroom), will be available and provided on computers within the Digital Media Lab at Nia Centre for post-production training and workshops.

The deadline to apply is April 20, 2023. This program is open to all, and preference will be given to applicants identifying as Black/Afro-diasporic, who are able to attend all program dates. Applicants are required to upload two examples of their work during the application process.

Info Session

Have questions about the program and the application process? Want to get to know the facilitator and meet the Nia Centre team? Attend our info session on April 4, 6 – 7pm for the Capture the Culture program to learn more about the program, the curriculum, how to submit a strong application, and connect with Robert Okine.

About the Facilitator

Robert Okine is a lifestyle and entertainment photographer (Getty Images), multi-talent specializing in delivering narratives through the use of photography and digital media. As a self-taught photographer, he has shot the likes of Lizzo, SZA, DVSN, Drake and many many more. A fixture in the corporate climate, he’s worked with brands like Nike, Hennessy Moet, The Four Seasons, Soho House, Ripple Effect, Lexus, and LCBO to name a few.  Robert has the creative insight to develop and evolve ideas, bring together brand goals, and directly influence consumer needs through stunning visuals and storytelling.