Latest news with #HamdanbinMohammedInternationalPhotographyAward


Observer
30-07-2025
- Observer
Underwater photography workshop held in Khasab
KHASAB: The Musandam Governor's Office on Wednesday organised a professional underwater photography workshop in the Wilayat of Khasab. The workshop saw the participation of numerous divers and photographers interested in documenting marine life, reflecting a convergence of art, environment and tourism. The workshop is part of the governorate's preparations for the upcoming Musandam International Diving Festival, scheduled from August 25 to 28. It aims to qualify participants for the photography competition accompanying the festival by equipping them with the latest skills and techniques in underwater photography. This will enhance their ability to capture professional images that reflect the beauty of Oman's marine environment. The workshop was led by Emirati photographer Ali Khalifa bin Thalith, Secretary-General of the Hamdan bin Mohammed International Photography Award. He stated that the workshop is a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to support and empower photographers in exploring unique natural environments through their lenses. He highlighted Musandam's astonishing marine diversity and rich waters as an ideal setting for developing specialised photography skills, especially underwater. He added that the workshop aims to deepen participants' understanding of the fundamentals of lighting, composition and advanced techniques for capturing hidden beauty in the depths. It also seeks to instil an artistic sense that translates the experience into a visual message promoting environmental awareness. It is worth noting that Musandam Governorate is one of Oman's most prominent tourist destinations, where towering mountain terrains blend with Sea of Oman waters rich in coral reefs and marine life, making it an ideal environment for diving and underwater photography. Through these events, the governorate aims to strengthen its position on the global eco-tourism map and support efforts to conserve marine biodiversity. — AFP


Muscat Daily
30-07-2025
- Muscat Daily
Musandam prepares for diving fest with photography workshop
Khasab – Musandam Governor's Office organised an underwater photography workshop on Wednesday in Khasab, drawing divers and photographers aiming to document marine life ahead of the upcoming Musandam International Diving Festival. The initiative reflects the governorate's strategy to promote the intersection of art, environmental awareness and tourism. The diving festival is scheduled to take place from August 25 to 28 and will feature a photography competition as part of its programme. The workshop was led by Emirati photographer Ali Khalifa bin Thalith, Secretary-General of Hamdan bin Mohammed International Photography Award. He described the session as a step towards supporting photographers in exploring unique marine environments and translating those experiences into impactful visual storytelling. Thalith said the training focused on key techniques in underwater photography, including lighting and composition, with the aim of equipping participants with skills to capture high-quality images that reflect the biodiversity of Oman's marine ecosystems. Musandam is considered one of Oman's leading ecotourism destinations, with its fjord-like coastline, coral reefs, and marine habitats attracting divers and nature enthusiasts. Officials said such workshops help promote responsible marine tourism and raise awareness of the need to preserve the underwater environment.