Photography is more than just taking pictures, it is about storytelling, perspective, and capturing moments that may never happen again. For aspiring photographers, nothing compares to hands-on experience in the field where they can apply their knowledge and experiment with different techniques in real-world settings.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of Amanda Weerasinghe, 15 students from the Photography Course at the OYOB Centre of Excellence in Seenigama had the unforgettable opportunity to visit Yala National Park which is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic wildlife sanctuaries. Fully sponsored by Amanda, this immersive field tour not only covered transport, breakfast, and lunch but also gave the students a chance to put their skills to the test in a breathtaking natural setting.
During the trip, the students had the unique privilege of using some of Amanda’s most valuable cameras and gaining hands-on experience with professional-grade equipment that is often out of reach for young learners. He also shared advanced photography techniques, guiding the students on composition, lighting, and capturing movement in wildlife photography.
Research shows that experiential learning (learning through direct experience) improves knowledge retention by up to 75% compared to traditional classroom-based learning. For these students, seeing a leopard move stealthily through the jungle or an eagle soaring against the golden hues of dawn was not just a lesson in photography but also in patience, timing, and observation which are skills that are vital for any successful photographer.
A Lasting Impact
Beyond the technical knowledge and hands-on practice, this field tour has instilled confidence and inspiration in these young photographers. With many of them coming from rural backgrounds, access to opportunities like this is rare. According to a study by the National Endowment for the Arts, participation in the arts, including photography, significantly improves critical thinking skills, creativity and career prospects, especially for students from underprivileged backgrounds.
On behalf of the students and the Foundation of Goodness, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Amanda for funding this unforgettable journey and also for sharing his expertise, equipment, and time. His generosity has opened new doors for these young photographers, giving them an experience that will shape their future careers and artistic vision.
With newfound inspiration and skills, these students are now better equipped to chase their dreams, capture stunning visuals, and share the beauty of the world through their lens. This is the power of education, opportunity, and kindness—transforming lives, one frame at a time.
