Active Citizenship Through Photography

From October 20th to 25th, 2023, twenty youth workers from five countries gathered in Budapest for the “Active Citizenship Through Photography” training course, part of the “Citizenship in Action” project. This Erasmus+ funded project aimed to enhance participants’ photography skills to foster active citizenship among youth.

The vibrant city of Budapest served as the perfect backdrop for our training course, bringing together youth workers from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Portugal. During this activity, participants immersed themselves in the world of photography, learning how to leverage this powerful medium to encourage active citizenship in their communities. The primary objective was to equip these youth workers with the skills and knowledge to use photography as a tool for promoting alternative forms of participation and improving visibility and promotion within their work.

Participants were excited to learn new photography techniques and explore the city through their lenses. The training covered essential photography concepts such as composition, lighting, and camera settings. Through theoretical input and practical exercises, participants honed their skills and discovered the potential of photography in storytelling and engagement.

The training included a variety of hands-on exercises that connected photography with active citizenship. Participants took to the streets of Budapest to interact with locals and capture the essence of daily life. One significant exercise involved creating a photo story sequence, where participants documented a day in the life of Budapest residents. These sequences told compelling stories through simple yet powerful images, showcasing the city’s vibrant culture and its people’s daily routines.

Another impactful exercise was inspired by “Humans of New York.” Participants photographed strangers, accompanied by brief stories or interesting facts about their lives. This exercise not only improved participants’ portrait photography skills but also fostered meaningful connections and conversations with the community.

Additionally, participants practiced various technical shots such as pan shots and reflection shots, further enhancing their photographic repertoire. The visit to the World Press Photo exhibition at a local museum was a highlight, providing inspiration from some of the year’s best photographs and their incredible stories. This experience underscored the power of photography in raising awareness and promoting social change.

The training was well-received, with participants expressing satisfaction and enthusiasm for the skills they gained. They appreciated the opportunity to engage directly with the community and saw firsthand how photography can be used as a tool for active citizenship. The exercises and practical experiences provided a solid foundation for participants to replicate similar activities within their own communities, promoting active citizenship through creative and engaging methods.

Stay tunned with the upcoming activities from the “Citizenship and Action” and learn how to use creative methods to promote Active Citizenship. Don’t miss out on the chance to develop new skills and make a positive impact in your community!