Melting glaciers, rising temperatures, raging wildfires and displaced communities; the impacts of climate change are overwhelming. While information is available in newspapers, magazines and social media of the impacts of climate change, it is often the images captured by those affected that best depict the extent of the devastation. These images offer compelling proof that climate change is a reality and highlight potential solutions. To encourage students to use photography to highlight climate change, award-winning nature and wildlife photographer Roie Galitz from Israel met students of The Royal Academy in Paro, yesterday.
Photography plays a vital role in depicting the complex realities of climate change. Visuals have the unique power to engage viewers emotionally and build public awareness of climate disruption.
This impact was evident when Roie Galitz presented his works to the students.
He explained how mastering the basics of lighting, aperture, shutter speed, and capturing the perfect moment can create compelling art that captures viewers’ attention.
“There is a saying that a picture is worth a thousand words. Each picture tells a story. And when you read about something it is one thing and when you see it in the photo with your eyes, when you understand the impact of our actions, it makes a stronger connection with the viewer. So, the reason why I did this talk is because I think that climate change is one of the biggest threats around the world. These children are the future of our planet. They are the ones who will have to live with the consequences of our actions and decisions that we make today.”
“One of the things I discovered while filming in Bhutan is the plethora of talents, and all they need is a chance to learn from others, especially from the seasoned film-makers abroad. Our main mission is to educate, to inspire, to illuminate and pave the path for the bright youths of today,” said Mel Gee Henderson, co-founder of Bhutan Film Institute.
Roie shared an emotional story about a mother polar bear and her two cubs who died from starvation due to the shrinking ice at the North Pole. He accompanied this with striking photos that left the students feeling sad.
Roie emphasised that pictures can speak volumes and encouraged the young audience to turn their passion for photography into a mission.
“If I were to use photography as a tool to educate other people, I would use social media. It is because social media is one of the biggest platforms that everybody uses. I would use the skills that I just learned from Mr Roie’s presentation to spread images on issues or anything that I have to display to the community,” said Dawa Seldon, a student at The Royal Academy, Paro.
“There are many photography campaigns that are being organised locally and internationally. By participating in it, we can gain valuable experience. For instance, if we want to address waste issues, we can generate before and after pictures to show the changes. This way, people can easily understand or get the message we want to convey,” said Chimi Yoesel Phuntsho, another student at The Royal Academy, Paro.
Roie Galitz is in the country at the invitation of the Bhutan Film Institute as part of the Kingdom of Bhutan International Film Festival, scheduled to take place next month.
Namgay Wangchuk, Paro
Edited by Sonam Pem
