The Mokokchung Photography Club (MPC), established in 2011, organized a “Get-together & Induction Programme” at Hotel Magnus, Alongmen Ward, on September 6, 2024. The event was attended by around twenty photographers and photography enthusiasts. This get-together marked the Club’s revival after a long hiatus due to members being preoccupied with personal commitments and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
With the upcoming mega Photography Festival scheduled for September 19-21, 2024, at Yimchalu, the MPC aimed to rejuvenate its activities and involve new and dynamic photographers from the town. Notable professionals such as Takomeren, Jonathan Ao, and others participated in the event, sharing their perspectives and experiences.
Speaker Limalenden Longkumer, founding member of MPC and Editor & Publisher of Mokokchung Times, delivered on the theme “Mokokchung Photography Club, What Next?” He articulated his vision for the Club, emphasizing its potential to foster community engagement, promote cultural preservation, and enhance creative expression through photography.
Limalenden highlighted the need for the Club to remain active and suggested several initiatives, such as organizing monthly meetings, conducting workshops, arranging photo-walks, and collaborating with event managers. He also proposed the idea of informal critique sessions where members could provide constructive feedback on each other’s work. “We might be a small group, but if we are dedicated, we can do great things for society,” he encouraged.
During the discussion session, Sashimeren Jamir, a founding member and senior journalist, proposed the election of new office bearers. After thorough deliberation, Takomeren Pongen, a well-known wedding photographer, was appointed as the Interim Convenor and Moamongba, a passionate photography enthusiast, was named the Interim Secretary. They were tasked with coordinating the Club’s participation in the upcoming photography festival and exploring creative ideas for future activities.
The programme was moderated by Temsuchila Jamir, a founding member, while Aso Imsong, also a founding member, led the invocation. Sentikala Kichu, another founding member and Secretary of MPC, delivered the keynote address and later handed over the secretarial responsibilities to the Interim Secretary, Moamongba. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Sashimeren Jamir.
The MPC Secretary, Sentikala Kichu, sponsored the venue, while Convener Imanonen Pongen sponsored the refreshments, despite being unable to attend the programme due to unforeseen circumstances.
Since its formation, MPC has actively participated in events such as M-Fest and Mokokchung Town’s 125th anniversary celebrations, organized a month-long photography workshop, and even constructed the unique Morung Camera at Ungma village. The Club aims to continue its legacy by promoting a vibrant community of photographers and promoting photography as an art form in the region.
