Fashion photography workshop in Bangladesh: A transformative opportunity, a milestone in fashion photography

For the first time in Bangladesh, a groundbreaking fashion photography workshop titled “New York Portraits” was held from November 17 to 23 at the Shala Neighbourhood Art Space, Aloki. This event, a collaborative effort by Map Photo Bangladesh and Interspeed, marked a new chapter in the country's creative landscape. It brought together international expertise and local talent under the mentorship of Jamie Ellington, a celebrated New York-based photographer specializing in fashion, fine art, and portrait photography. This workshop pledged to be a transformative experience for photographers, models, and brands alike.

Jamie Ellington’s artistry lies in his exceptional ability to blend technical expertise with an innate understanding of human emotion and individuality. His work has earned global recognition for transcending traditional boundaries of photography to tell deeply personal and powerful stories.

Over his illustrious career spanning more than a decade, Ellington has collaborated with esteemed brands such as Cartier, Calvin Klein, Pantone, Motorola, Show Studio, and MLB among others. His mastery of lighting, composition, model direction and ability to create intimate, dynamic portraits has earned him a celebrated place in the competitive world of photography. By introducing his expertise to Bangladesh, Ellington aimed to empower local talent with the skills, knowledge, and perspectives needed to thrive in a global market—all from their own homeland.

The workshop was meticulously designed as an immersive, hands-on experience for participants. From advanced lighting techniques to crafting compelling visual narratives, the curriculum covered crucial aspects of fashion and beauty photography. Participants learned essential skills like model direction, equipment setup, and aesthetic storytelling. These technical and creative lessons were further reinforced through personalized evaluations, enabling photographers to refine their craft and build professional portfolios. By bridging global perspectives with local talent, the event empowered Bangladeshi photographers to compete in the international arena without leaving their homeland.

For beginners, a two-day introductory course offered foundational training on studio lighting, outdoor shooting, and understanding fashion styles. These sessions combined theoretical knowledge with practical exercises, building confidence and competence among aspiring photographers.

The event’s success was amplified by the active participation of celebrated models, photographers, and prominent clothing and jewelry brands. The diverse lineup of models including Jessia Islam, Sarah Alam, and Rakin Absar, Anika, Azraf, Abdalle Clever, Yoganika, Sunidhi Nayak, Nazia Hassan, Sukanan Chakma, Shakira Bibi, Zoha Tarannum, Sobia Ameen, and Zarif Shabab, represented a rich tapestry of styles and backgrounds, emphasizing inclusivity and challenging conventional stereotypes. This diversity extended beyond the runway, with creatives from various disciplines including musicians, influencers, and yogis from Dhaka Flow contributing to a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment. Together, these elements fostered a vibrant space where creativity thrived across boundaries.

The workshop’s realization was driven by the vision and determination of Map Photo Bangladesh, a premier photography and visual storytelling platform in the country. Co-founded by four eminent photojournalists Mahmud Rahman, Shofikul Alam Kiron, Hasan Saifuddin Chandan, and Shujon Ahmed, the organization has played a pivotal role in promoting Bangladeshi photography on a global scale. It has built a community that bridges local talent with international exposure through workshops, exhibitions, and competitions, championing the art of visual storytelling.

Each co-founder brings a unique legacy to the organization. Mahmud Rahman, a distinguished photojournalist, has documented critical social, political, and environmental issues, shedding light on marginalized communities and global crises such as the Rohingya crisis. His photography highlights the resilience of underrepresented communities and has been showcased internationally.

Shofikul Alam Kiron, the first Bangladeshi to win the prestigious World Press Photo Award, is celebrated for his impactful work on acid attack survivors. His contributions extend beyond photography, advocating for social justice and supporting humanitarian causes. Hasan Saifuddin Chandan, a luminary in fine art and documentary photography, is renowned for his seminal project on life at Kamalapur Railway Station, which blends realism with artistic expression. His dedication to teaching has inspired a generation of photographers. Shujon Ahmed, with his expertise in documentary and travel photography, has captured the essence of Bangladesh’s urban and rural life, creating compelling narratives that reflect the country’s cultural richness. Notably, he has showcased his panoramic photography through exhibitions such as “Stand up Dhaka”.

This event has been brain child of some minds like Asadur Rahman Ashiq, a photo journalist of MAP Photo Bangladesh, Nazia Nazmul, PR head of MAP Photo Bangladesh and Adnan Karim, managing director of Interspeed. Bringing Jamie Ellington to Bangladesh was a monumental feat, spearheaded by Asadur Rahman Ashiq and supported by Adnan Karim. Overcoming significant logistical challenges posed by Ellington’s demanding global schedule, Ashiq and Adnan ensured the initiative came to fruition. Nazia Nazmul, played a pivotal role in connecting stakeholders and aligning resources to create a seamless event. Their collective determination and vision turned this ambitious project into reality. The workshop’s success stands as a testament to their commitment and collaborative efforts.

Integral to the event’s success were its collaborators. Azaaraz by Shumie, Arranya and Turaag, the wardrobe partners, brought an edge of elegance and sophistication through their unique designs into the spotlight, showcasing local craftsmanship. Makeover partners such as Persona, Freya Makeover and Salon and Nerissa Nashin Artistry ensured that each model embodied the creative vision of the photographers, elevating the visual storytelling. Magic Italy and East Bengal Coffee Roasters, the food and beverage partners added hospitality that complemented the workshop’s vibrant atmosphere. In addition, Digital shop BD has provided with the logistical support to make the event a successful one.

The workshop was more than an educational program, it was a platform for growth and innovation across the creative spectrum. For photographers, it offered a rare opportunity to learn from a global expert, honing their skills to compete in a highly competitive market. Models benefited from professional portfolios crafted under expert guidance, showcasing their versatility and potential. Brands gained visibility and validation, their creations brought to life through compelling visuals that resonated on both local and international levels.

Through this initiative, MAP Photo Bangladesh and Interspeed demonstrated the power of collaboration in fostering creative excellence. By bridging international expertise with local talent, they have laid the groundwork for a more inclusive and dynamic creative industry in Bangladesh. The workshop’s legacy will likely extend far beyond its seven days, inspiring future projects that continue to push boundaries and redefine possibilities in Bangladeshi fashion photography.

The "New York Portraits" workshop was not just an event, it was a movement that united diverse creative communities, celebrated individuality, and showcased the immense potential of Bangladeshi talent on a global scale. By fostering an exchange of ideas, techniques, and perspectives, this initiative promises to leave a lasting impact on the creative landscape of Bangladesh. This groundbreaking collaboration between Map Photo Bangladesh, Interspeed, and Jamie Ellington has set a new benchmark for creative excellence. It is a testament to what can be achieved when local talent and international expertise come together in a shared vision of growth and innovation.