Photo-synthesis: A photo-finishing school at Niccolo Cosme's Lighthouse Studio

MANILA, Philippines - Pilgrimages of the sea aren’t the only ones that need enlightening. Somewhere in Malate, a beacon sparks, rising from its former glories as a nightlife staple and reinstating itself as home to a radiance born out of of reflectors and external flashes. From the shafts of light peeking through the studio, it would seem, that everything is illuminated at the Lighthouse.

Forces of nature made head-on collisions and have chosen the Lightworks Photo Exhibit as their point of intersection. Earth, wind, water, and fire diverged to create individual masterpieces by apprentices of photographer Niccolo Cosme, organically churned out within three days. The workshops aren’t only for enthusiasts or those who’d want to make a career out of taking photos. Aside from aspiring photographers, the showcase also boasts of participants who took a breather out of their current occupations. Designer Tina Daniac wasn’t exactly a fan of photography, and still hasn’t become one after the workshop, but she claims that the class has equipped her with an alternative “eye” that might help her with her craft.

A Snap-Worthy Workshop, No Matter Your Line of Work

Meanwhile, WBA World Superflyweight interim champion Nonito Donaire got a kick out of doing photography as a recreation. His photo concept, like everyone else’s, involved climate changes, and he decided to create something out of overheating. “I wanted to show the emotion and struggle involved when I train for boxing matches,” he says. Nonito also praises the positive energy expended by Niccolo and his other classmates. He says, “I enjoyed [the class] because it was an environment that really nurtured my artistic side without making me feel uncomfortable, shy, or embarrassed for my lack of knowledge.”

And while photoblogging and the Internet has inspired throngs of people to pick up a DSLR, it’s more than just boosting the production of the camera industry. There’s a lot more that goes into photography, beyond packs of trigger-happy teens who chronicle places, faces, food, and outfits du jour. Self-tutorials and I-have-a-camera-therefore-I-am-a-photographer mentalities aside, we can all still learn a thing or two under an expert’s tutelage. Niccolo Cosme has served up a few shots of wisdom on photo musts, as the Lighthouse man himself briefs us on how to gain bearable lightness as a photographer.

Cosmetology 101

1. The What Factor - “I’ve always shared with my students, or whenever I have talks that if you want your photo to be unforgettable it should have the “what” factor, your audience should pause, and give your work a second look and say ‘What?’” 

2. Choose an advocacy - “Having a great advocacy and merging them with your work of arts is something that I’ve always shared, by that we are not just creating art works, we are also being responsible artists. Sure a great story behind each work is good, but to have a mission behind it is greater!”

3. Do what your heart tells you - “If you dont like what you are doing, it will show in your artworks. Find where you want to specialize on. It is also important to pay attention to inspirations, and looking back at your roots, it will say a lot about you—your artwork is a representation of yourself. If you can put your soul into your artwork, then you will live forever.”

4. Be a good listener - “Accept criticism creatively and not personally. It is always great to listen to others’ opinions but most importantly, listen to yourself, you should be your greatest creative critique.”

5. Learn how to collaborate- “As I have said time and time again, collaboration is the future of the world, we need to open our arms to co-creation. Collect ideas, brainstorm with others, produce your visions and share it with the rest of the world.” 

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For more information on the Lighthouse Studio and its upcoming digital photography, studio lighting, and Photoshop workshops, log-on to: http://thelighthousestudio.wordpress.com/

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