I am now midway through my exchange. The phase of collecting visual material is over, and now it’s time to process all of it! My main focus at this point is to produce informational and promotional video content about the three training programs I participated in through Origo, my host organization:
- Pilgrimage to Sustainability: As mentioned in my first article, this program was centered on sustainability and “walking on inner pathways” in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi.
- Three Treasures: This training explored the ancient art of Chi Kung and the “three treasures” – body, mind and spirit, aiming to enhance well-being and resilience.
- The Next Beat: In this program the participants were introduced to the Tamalpa Life/Art Process, an expressive arts approach that combines movement, visual art, writing and connection with nature.
It has been an amazing and very intense journey so far, and I have tons of material to edit. Each training took place in stunning natural environments, featuring a variety of outdoor activities and creative expressions, which was highly inspiring for me as a photographer. Some of my photographs have already been featured on Origo’s social media platforms, and I’m pleased with the positive response from both participants and organizers. Their support and encouragement have been very motivating.
During the second training program, I had already begun applying the time-management skills I developed during the first program, which helped me focus more effectively on my work. With each subsequent event, my confidence and experience grew. I felt continuously inspired and grateful for the opportunity to develop both my technical, creative, and artistic skills. I am also aware that, in real-world situations, time for experimentation may be more limited. However, I now feel more confident in my ability to approach a broader range of photographic tasks and deliver high-quality work that will add value to future clients. I have confirmed my passion for event photography and my talent for captivating the unplanned magical moments.
Throughout the trainings, I was able to leverage my journalistic background to facilitate video interviews with both participants and organizers. It was very rewarding to see how my contribution enhanced the organization’s storytelling, adding value in a way they might not have achieved otherwise.
Apart from the professional experience with photography and video, the opportunity to network with professionals from various sectors and nationalities has been both inspiring and enriching. I’ve come across many exciting ideas and opportunities, such as a workshop on photography and mental health, which I plan to explore further after ending this exchange.
In addition to photo and video editing, I am also gaining valuable insights into how Origo organizes and plans events and projects. Over the next few months, I’m going to learn more about the funding application process—an essential skill for sustaining a social enterprise like Origo, as well as for photographers like me, working on creative and artistic projects. Having limited experience in this area, I now have the opportunity to observe and absorb the process. With the guidance and support of Zsuszka, a seasoned entrepreneur at Origo, I will soon begin drafting my own funding applications.