About The Workshop

China is a land of remarkable contrasts, where ancient traditions meet one of the world’s most dynamic and rapidly changing societies. From the historic neighbourhoods and futuristic skyline of Shanghai to the tropical landscapes and coastal communities of Hainan Island, this immersive seven-day documentary photography journey invites participants to explore contemporary China through a cinematic and artistic approach.

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Through observation, patience, and visual storytelling, participants will learn to photograph not only what is seen, but what is felt — capturing atmosphere, gesture, emotion, and the subtle moments that reveal the character of modern China.

Guided by Gaylan Nazhad, participants will explore urban and coastal environments, photographing people, architecture, landscapes, and everyday life while developing their own visual language. The workshop focuses on transforming individual images into meaningful documentary stories that combine reality with artistic vision.

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Workshop Overview

Over seven days, participants will experience two very different sides of China, combining urban, cultural, and coastal photography into a personal documentary narrative. Through guided photographic walks, discussions, image critiques, and one-to-one mentoring, photographers will refine their understanding of composition, light, timing, and storytelling while developing a deeper approach to documentary photography as an art form.

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Workshop Structure

Day 1 | Arrival in Shanghai: Introduction & Visual Philosophy

The journey begins in Shanghai with a welcome dinner and introduction.

Gaylan Nazhad presents his approach to documentary photography, exploring observation, visual language, storytelling, and the importance of creating images with intention. Participants introduce themselves and share their photographic backgrounds and aspirations.

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Day 2 | Shanghai: A City Between Past and Future

Explore Shanghai’s historic neighbourhoods, markets, waterfront, and modern districts. Participants will photograph the relationship between tradition and transformation, focusing on light, rhythm, architecture, and human interaction. Evening discussions explore documentary storytelling and visual narrative.

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Day 3 | Shanghai: Developing the Story

Continue exploring the city through a more focused photographic approach. Through guided shooting, image reviews, and editing sessions, participants will learn how to select, sequence, and connect photographs to create a stronger documentary story.

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Day 4 | From City to Coast: Journey to Hainan Island

Travel from Shanghai to Hainan, experiencing the transition from China’s urban landscape to its tropical coastline. Participants will photograph the changing environments, landscapes, and communities while exploring how movement and place contribute to a visual narrative.

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Day 5 | Hainan: Coastal Life & Human Stories

Explore fishing villages, local communities, markets, beaches, and tropical landscapes. Morning and evening photography sessions focus on atmosphere, emotion, composition, and cinematic framing, with personal guidance to help participants create more meaningful images.

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Day 6 | Developing a Personal Documentary Project

A dedicated day for participants to develop their own visual story. Through individual mentoring, editing discussions, and sequencing exercises, photographers will refine their projects and strengthen their personal photographic voice.

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Day 7 | Final Presentation & Celebration

The workshop concludes with a final review and presentation of participants’ documentary projects. The closing session reflects on the creative journey, followed by a farewell celebration before departure.

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What Is Included

• Seven days of immersive documentary photography education

• Guided photographic walks and shooting sessions

• Professional instruction and mentoring by Gaylan Nazhad

• Image critique, editing guidance, and storytelling development

• Certificate of Completion

• Accommodation in carefully selected 4- or 5-star hotels

• Daily breakfast and lunch

• Welcome dinner

• Farewell celebration dinner

• Domestic flight within China

• All local transportation during the workshop

• Full travel coordination and logistical support

• Photography preparation guide and equipment recommendations

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What Is Not Included

• International flights to and from China

• Camera equipment and personal photography gear

• Travel insurance

• Dinner meals except the included welcome and farewell dinners

• Alcoholic drinks

• Personal expenses

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Workshop Philosophy

This workshop is an invitation to experience China beyond the surface.

By combining careful observation, patience, and artistic intention, participants will discover how everyday moments can become powerful visual stories. The goal is not only to photograph China, but to develop a deeper way of seeing and a stronger personal approach to storytelling.