Friday, March 29, 2024 | Ramadan 18, 1445 H
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EDITOR IN CHIEF- ABDULLAH BIN SALIM AL SHUEILI

Eyes like a shutter, mind like a lens

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A photo must possess great composition, detail and lighting. Abdul Azeez Pulikkool’s picture of two Omani brothers playing against the background of fireworks during the Muscat Festival at Al Amerat Park captured these elements. Matt Adams, Senior Producer, ‘Nat Geo Your Shot’, praises Abdul Azeez’s shot for its moment and timing. “I love this image with the young boys in the right hand corner of the frame and the fireworks going off in the upper left.


The moment of one of the boys reaching over is a nice detail.” The picture got many rave reviews and was published in ‘Your Shot National Geographic’s Daily Dozen’. A Camarena Academy Photography Award winner, Abdul Azeez, uses a Canon EOS 5D Mark and is a member of Friday Shoot Out (FSO) Muscat, who have some exceptional works.


FSO members claim Wakan village in the Wilayat of Nakhal was made popular after their works went on social media.


Natalie Anne Francis, a primary school teacher, says being a FSO member has enabled her to become a competent photographer. The group organises opportunities to improve skills and share knowledge.


“From learning where to find tiny insects and capture their micro details to the expanse of the skies in astrophotography, FSO has someone who is not only passionate about it but willing to share their knowledge,” she explains.


Along with refining skills, she now tries to pass on the legacy by helping newcomers get a foothold. Photography for Natalie is a way to capture precious moments of time, passionate pursuits of others, document stories and create art.


“Being part of FSO is like having a huge extended family, and the camaraderie of the group has enabled me to join outings and enjoy the wonderful nature and culture in Oman.”


FSO members pursue photography as a hobby. This helps them inculcate patience and the chance to breathe, while waiting for the right time to capture an image, respect nature and the environment.

For Hemanth Murthy, photography is a profession and passion. “Oman has given an opportunity to prove my ability enabling me to capture the scenic beauty. Every shoot is a challenge for me to deliver the best results,” he admits.


Founded by Libin Prabhakaran, an IT consultant, FSO was started with the objective of improving photographic skills, learning together and sharing knowledge with the motto of ‘Let’s Learn Together’.


FSO was born when Libin and four of his friends came together on November 10, 2012 at 1 pm (magical number 10.11.12. 13!). Today, it boasts over 3,600 followers with 250 plus active members.


On the first Saturday of October each year, photography enthusiasts around the world meet up in their towns to walk around, take photographs, socialise and make new friends as part of Scott Kelby’s Worldwide Photowalk.


FSO Muscat Group shutterbugs also took part in the Photowalk and met at the Portuguese watch tower opposite Riyam Park to stroll and shoot along the Muttrah sea front. 2017 was particularly special as it marked the 10th anniversary of the Photowalk.


The members also review the photographs and do constructive criticism post events on social media.


They meet every Friday except during summer when they conduct workshops or shoot indoors.


Soon, FSO will bring out a coffee table book in association with the Ministry of Tourism profiling all its members along with their works.


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