Date:2nd Nov 08Venue:Bhabanipur Cemetry (Alipur)Members Present:1.Rangan2.Samir3.Dizzie4.Sumanta5.Sudip6.Subho7.Atanu8.Sumi9.Aparna10.Joyjeet11.Krishnendu12.Abhijit ( Chobiwala )13.Sudipta14.Saikat15.Rajarshi16.Subhamoy17.Kingshuk18.BireshGuest1.Debjani2.IndiraAll Souls day is a day when Christian remember their friends & relatives, who have passed away. This comes from an ancient belief that the souls of the dead will return, on this particular day, to have a meal with their family & friends. Candles are lit to guide the souls to their home for the meal.As schedule most of the members met infront of National Library main gate at 3:30pm. I arrived late and headed straight for the cemetry. The place was crowded not only by people paying homage to departed relatives & friends but also by hordes of photographers (not only KWS). Infact it seemed that the photographers out numbered the mourners.The graves were beautifully decorated with flowers and candles.As usual we divided into small groups and carried on with our shots. Looking for Candids, Potrtaits, Macros and even Landscapes. In the centre on the cemetry lies the War memorial. There were no one to pay homage to the departed foreign soldiers. This place was not crowded giving the photographers an differnt photographic opertunity.As usual the KWS members had there usual share of fun. Jojeet, Subhomay da and Atanu da climbed a ladder to increase the wideness of there wide angle lenses. Apran almost forced a lady to pray infront of a grave.As darkness desended the candles started glowing brightly and one by one tripods came out. With KWS members trying their skills in night shots.It was difficult arranging for the group shot, finally we had shot with out Saikat and Sumanta da, who was no where to be found.The shot was over by 6:30pm but KWS shots are never complete with out food. Most of the members left but 8 of us (Sudip, Indira, Sumanta, Joyjeet, Subhamoy, Dizze, Debjani & I) continued with the KWS tradition with samosa & Lassi at a shop (Don't know tha name!!) near the Bhabanipur Gurudwara.Members are requested to Tag there photos KWS021108ALLSOUL and post them to the group pool.The report is written by Rangan Dutta.

Venue: Kalakar Street MarketDate: 29/10/08Meeting Place : Girish Park Metro StationMembers Present:1. Sudip2. Diganto3. Aparna4. Ganesh5. Abhijit6. Amitabha7. Atanu8. SubhamoyA shoot at Kalakar Street Market was the agenda of this extended weekend shoot for Diwali. Though this was the middle of the week, we kept this date as the last shoot on 26th October got cancelled due to rain.This was first KWS outing for Ganesh.After walking down from Girish Park to Ganesh Talkies , there was a confusion as to which way is Kalakar Street. I thought it falls on the left side, some thought it was on the right. Finally Atanu came to our rescue and guided us through the serpentine lanes of north kolkata to the busy bazaar. Basically you have to walk from Ganesh talkies to Punte Kalitala ( 2 mins barely) and then turn left into a lane besides a park and then again turn right and walk a bit to reach the destined bazaar.Sudip was a bit confused about the road and somehow locating lots of woman who looked familiar. ‘Etake aamar chena chena lagche’ was his repetitive comment ( Hey Sudip, don’t get angry).The Bazaar was crowded but nothing like the day before Dhanteras. It was good for us as shooting in the Dhanteras crowd would be extremely difficult. We all got busy with different subjects. Abhijit targeted a Flute seller who soon became some type of celebrity in that area. Subhamoy went for some close up of Diwali decoratives , Dizzy & I tried for some kids as candids. Aparna joined us later. Ganesh was taking pictures silently. Later he confessed that he had taken around 170 odd pics ! Sudip was busy taking some candids ( maybe of some known faces… who knows ?)Light was getting low, and people in the market were getting curious about us. Maximum took us for journalist and many started yelling at us to take their photographs. The best way is to ignore these people and go on taking photographs. We did the same. In midst of a cigarette break, a lottery ticket seller approached us. I bought one and the guy checked my ticket number, thought something and then asked for my name and phone number, which he noted down in a makeshift. ‘Wow…’ I thought ‘Is that some kind of indication ?’Atanu left early and we left the market around 17:00 . We walked upto Girish Park, did not find Sharma’s an appropriate place for snacks break, and then again walked upto biriyani house at Vivekananda road. Before that there was a comedy in front of a temple near Ganesh talkies. We were thinking of a group photograph, and then Sudip went for searching for a road side photographer and finally caught up a timid looking guy. He took a photo right, but it was a very long shot and to make matter worse it was hazy. Finally we decided on taking photos ourselves and doing PP.We finished off our refreshments with tandoori roti, mutton rezala and firni, discussed about tyoes of firni, low light photography and brand new look of kolkata trams and then left after yet another successful weekend shoot of KWS.Kindly tag ur pictures KWS281008Diwali and post them to the grp poolThanks Amitabha da for writing this report.

Venue: Subhomoy da's flat (empty) Sibpur Howrah

Date: 19/10/08

Members Present:1.Sudip2.Shamim3.Aparna4.Chobiwala5.Aruni6.Dizzie7.Subhamoy8.Piyush9.Tamanash10.Rangan11.Apu Koustav(Guest)12.Paromita(Guest)13.Krish14.Sudipta15.Joyjeet16.Abhirup17.Amitabha18.Subhashis19.Ayan20.SumantaAt last the D Day came. We have been waiting for it since 18/09/08 (the actual birthday.) According to schedule we met at the Calcutta Port Trust Guest House. But some of the members opted to go straight to Subhomoy da's flat. We started a bit behind schedule. Joyjeet, Subhomuy da, Diganta, Aparna and I left for sibpur in Jojeet's car along with the cake & misthi. Sumanta da along with Apu & Paromita di followed us in his car. Sudip, Chobiwala, Tamanash, Sudipta, Abhirup, Amitabha and Subhasis followed in bike and taxi.The comlex along with the flat was beautiful. We were soon in a relaxed mood with Sudip, Sudipta and Chobiwala working on Laptops. Soon the other members started dropping in. Shamim, Krish, Piyus (Straight from Amsterdam) and Ayan joined in but as usual Aruni was late. Subhomoy da's parents also dropped in with mashima providing us with delicious narkol naru. We also had a round of snacks (Chicken Crossent & cold drinks)This was followed by a photo session with Aparna posing as makeshift model, but as the cake was unveiled the photographers left Aparna and started shooting the cake. Piyus, who had travelled the longest to attend the party, was given the honour to cut the cake. The black forest cake was so tasty that there was no incidence of cake throwing at each other. This was followed by a discussion, where every member and even the guest gave there opinion about KWS.Next we left for the lunch session at Sibpur BE college guest house. The menu consisted of bhat, dal, alu bhaja, mix-veg, rui mach, chicken, chatni, papad, misthi and icecream.The lunch was followed by another adda session at the guest house, where Ayan proposed the theory of normal marriage. (to be discused in details in Baba Uncle thread). Sumanta da (along with his guests) and Subhasis left soon after and Krish joined them for his second lunch with his wife (also to be discussed).We returned to the warmth of the flat where we had a great adda session along with bottels of beer and imported chocolates (Courtesy: Piyus)Anibran called up several times inspite of his shots for the details of the party and khabar'e lob debar jonyo!We ended the day with a presentation by Sudip on KWS looking back.

Protima Bisarjon(11-10-08)

Venue: Judges Ghat
Date : 11-10-08
Time : 3.00 p.m
Members:
01.Aparna
02.Rikh
03.Shamim
04.Sudip
05.Sumitava
06.Krishnendu

Guest
01.Indira
02.Swati

Today a new member,Rikh joined us with his wife Swati.Meeting place for the shoot was Judges Ghat,I reached to the location and found Shamim da, Sumitavo, Rikh & Swati are already there.After a long time Sudip da reached with Indira di(his wife) & We were lucky to get Krish. After a long period,Krish joined us.

We start our day.
Keeping Ganges to our left, from Judges Ghat, we started walking and shooting towards Babu Ghat, actually we plan to shoot "Protima Bisarjon" but unfortunately we din not found any bisarjon rituals & no other interesting activity on the ghat. so we decided to leave the place,to make a adda session.We took the group shot at Babu Ghat and walked towards our final destination "Scoop".But due to some personal reason Rikh, Swati & Sumitava leave just after the Ghat shoot.

We walked through the famous ice cream parlour of Kolkata 'Scoop", we had a very good & long time adda with French Fries & Ice Cream. After the usual long session of food, Weekend shooters as a matter of fact called it a day.
Members are requested to add TAG: KWS111008BISORJON to there pictures and post them to the group pool.

Bonus Shoot Dashami "Sindoor Khela"(09.10.08)

Date: 09:10:08
Place: Bagbazar Sarbojanin
Members present

01.Aparna
02.Sudip
03.Tanayesh
04.Suman
05.Vivek
06.Sumi
07.Atanu
08.Subhamoy
09.Saikat
10. Dibyendu
11.Miss Sreemoyee Roy Choudhury(Guest)
12.Mr. Rahul Reddy(Guest)
13.Angad(Guest)

Ok now, here I start off with my first report. After having almost forgotten about the shoot I got up at 7.45 am. Sleepy, gloomy and also hell worried that I will miss a few early shots I darted off instantly to meet my boss, Mr. Rahul Reddy, and my girlfriend, Miss Sreemoyee Roy Choudhury, as they were our guests for the shoot. Met them 10 minutes late and off we went in Rahul Sir's car and reached Bagbazar at around 9.20 am.

We met Aparna on the road and with her was our third guest, Angad. After having given the both of them a lift in the car we finally reached the place. Most members had also just arrived. And wow! the place was already a hub of activity. People hurrying about everywhere doing a host of things. Sudipda and a few others had already occupied a vantage point inside the pandal hoping to get a few better shots, but this was of no avail as all the action moved out of the pandal into the lawn. And then the moment of apocalpyse happened!

Swarms of photographers from maybe all the photograpy groups of Kolkata attacked the ever obliging ladies, all for their own bit ofphotographic eternalzation. Amidst this frenzy we were clicking away to our hearts content as well when Aparna caught the "ire" of the 'boudis'. The next thing we saw was with her face smeared with "sindoor' being a cute subject for the array of photographers.

I wasnt spared from being "red faced" either as I too was smeared with vermillion and also my girlfriend, but the spirit mattered and thats all that counts. Thus we went on clicking and got a few very good portraits. Some stunning ones really!! Bengali ladies do look best in sarees and their expression during this event is beyond compare.

But as good thing have to end, so ended ur shoot at around 11.30 am.
We headed off again for the days full of the monotonous glory of our daily lives but with the everlasting ray of hope of looking into the goddess' eyes next time around.

Members are requested t TAG there picture with KWS091008SINDUR and post them to the group pool.

Regards,
Vivek Mukherjee.

Bonus shoot on Maha Ashtami(07.10.08)

Report: Bonus Shoot on Ashtami. More of a get together and feeding frenzy!
Venue: Tero Parbon Restaurant and Maddox Square.
Date: 7th October, 2008
Time: 1:30 pm.

TAG: KWS07102008ASHTAMI
I had a real temptation to change the tag to KWF.... Kolkata Weekdays Food!! but then again, let's not malign the club.

Disclaimer: This report is not intended to hurt Anirban, our good friend, in anyway. Any such effects on Anirban's part is totally unintentional and does not reflect the reporters mind. This can also be concluded as a fault on Anirban's behalf. Thank You. [:)] [;)]

Member's Present (alphabetically):
1)Aruni
2)Aparna
3)Sudip da
4)Shamim da
5)Suman
6)Tanayesh
7)Sumi

Guests Present:
Indira di ( Sudip da's wife)
Angad (Aparna's friend)

On Ashtami afternoon we met in front of Rashbehari Crossing. I think everyone had FOOOOOD on their minds. So we quickly moved to an auto stand nearby, as so superlatively pointed out by Sudip da. But it turns out it was a wild guess. Which was caught brilliantly by Indira di. Then we boarded taxis to reach the restaurant. Which was Sudip da's master plan all along!
After reaching tero parbon we shared greetings. Aruni made the booking. We got our table after quite a bit of waiting. So we were a bit upset with the management of the restaurant. We had vowed to take revenge. How we took it comes in the later part. We took the buffet menu. I don't remember the full menu. But we had, koraishuti r kochuri, chola r daal, kosha maangsho, chingri maach er malai curry, sorshe bata iilish, kheer, kheer er sondesh, gulab jamun and aam paana sarbat. All of us went on a feeding frenzy, specially Aruni, Tanayesh and Me. The three of us had four pieces of Iilish, four of golda chingri, two pieces of mangsho, sufficient and more than sufficient bhaat, and four piecec of kochuri EACH! All the waiters were aghast and horrified to see the way we ate. It was like we came from a famine struck country. Uf! How great the food was. I just wish Anirban was here to acknowledge it. He is a very ardent fan of feasts. And this was the mother of all feasts. I will describe the feast in all details for him [:)]. The chingri was just great. It was succulent, the malai was there to be felt. The sorshe Iilish stood out. Each piece was the size of our palms and so was the chingri. The maangsho was great too. Cooked with utmost expertise and a joy to the pallet. Even remembering the feast gives me the pleasure. And we ate soooooo much. I was like every time one of us got up to get something the waiters went “aa gaya, phir se aaya' or “gelo re...abar kahli kore debe buffet table!!!!”. The table had to be replenished about four times if I am not mistaken. By the time we finished the sweets, they came running to take away the dishes. And the buffet was closed after we left. Aruni suggested that 7th october is going to “Saheed dibosh” for tero parbon every year!!!

After that Sudip da left with his wife. To get a nice nap we presume. Aparna left too, with Angad. We guess she could not walk anymore. May be she was having trouble breathing! So, Me, Aruni, Tanayesh and Sumi were left. We took a few shots of the nearby pujas, and moved to Maddox Square where Shamim da joined us.
At Maddox we tried a few shots. Got a few. Shamim da got the best of them all. Kudos to him for that. That is award winning shot. And a possible blackmailing candidate. I request Shamim da to upoald that photo ASAP! Then at 7 in the evening we left. Reflecting at the day it was. Shamim da went home with his little marvel of a shot preserved. We were down to the four of us. Little did we know that Tanayesh had reserved the best for the last! As we went through the metro ticket checking machines. Aruni who had got both Tanayesh and his ticket, took the ticket out of the machine. All of us checked in. Suddenly we saw Tanayesh fighting with a dhoti clad gentleman over a ticket. One end of a ticket was being tugged by Tanayesh, the other end by the unknown Gentleman. It was a tug of war, where they were saying to each other 'This is my ticket”. The Bharolok was literally holding his dhoti and fighting. May be he was afraid that Tanayesh would claim that to be his own too and take it off! After quite a bit of fun he realised his folly and ran out of the scene! Laughing our heads off to the matter we called it a day.

Your photos should be tagged with the aforesaid tag.

Regards,
Suman

Bonus Shoot:Maha Saptami "Kalabou Snan"(06.10.08)

Venue:Judges Ghat
Date:06.10.08
Time:6.a.m.

Members Present
1.Sudip
2.Shamim
3.Vivek
4.Akash(Guest)
5.Indira(Guest)

On Saptami morning as decided earlier Kolkata Weekend Shooters meet at the ghats of River Hoogly to cover the auspicious event of Kolabou Snan.As decided we met at Judges Ghat at around 6.30 a.m. Aparna and Suman was also supposed to come but they missed it as they were down with fever.So this was a day for Canion in KWS after a long time. The time we reached the activity has started and for me it was first time I was seeing this in such close and I enjoyed it thoroughly. We got some real good candids shots. We were there till 9.00 a.m. and as the ghats were deserted we called it a day.
It was a great day and we weekend shooters enjoyed it thoroughly.

Kolkata Weekend Shooters are requested to Tag there pics KWS061008KKOLABOU and post it to the group pool.

Bonus Shoot KashFull(02.10.08)

Venue:NH6
Date:02.10.08
Meeting Place:Esplanade In front of Grand Hotel

Members Confirmed
1.Aparna
2.Dibyendu
3.Debangshu
4.Joyjeet
5.Piyush
6.Abhijit(banshiwala)
7.Sudip
8.Saikat
9.Vivek


After few discussion we finaly make a plan to shoot kashfull as Durga Puja special shoot.we were suppose to meet in front of Grand Hotel at 6.00am. me and piyush reached before time, we finaly started our journey at 6.30 am by 2 car. Sumo was for young citizen(Aparna, vivek, piyush saikat) & Joyjeet car for senior citizen(sudip da, Joyjeet da, dibyendu da)

our first stop was Azad Hind Dhaba, where we have some tea, alu paratha, dhahi, chicken tandoori & lassi at 7.30 am. After having some delicious breakfast we got some extra energy for shoot.

Not long after the dhaba we stopped and shoot some Kashfull.the sun war already mighty enough. Next stop we took only at Kolaghat, but unfortunately we did not got some good composition of Kashfull there so we tried some macros.

We rested for a while then started for the Dhaba. We back to the Dhaba again have chicken tandoori, naan, lassi; had a photography chat, clicked some group snap and started again for kolkata.

It was a great day and we had a great time & enjoy a lot with very good food So weekend Shooters are requested to add their snap to group pool as early as possile and pls add the Tag KWSKASHFUL021008

KWS : Tarpan : 28-09-08

Report : KWS : Tarpan : 28-09-08
Venue - Judges Ghat / Babu Ghat
Date - 28:09:08.
Time - 1:00 P.M.
Meeting Place – Judges Ghat

Members Attended:

01. Aparna
02. Atanu
03. Sudip
04. Joyjeet
05. Sumi
06. Saikat
07. Sarajit
08. Diganta (Dizzie)
09. Piyush

With Mahalaya setting in “Debipokho” KWS gang was also present at the Ghats for shooting the Tarpan rituals. As decided most of the members met at Judges Ghat where we could manage only some snaps on the street but since it was over crowded at the ghat the scope of getting a good shot was remote which is why we moved out to Babu Ghat. While walking down Sarajit joined us on the way.

At Babu Ghat all of us were quite skeptical as to how to shoot in water but after Sarajit led the pack we had Aparna & Piyush going into the water for shooting frames. All others shot from the safety of the banks. Saikat joined us in Babu Ghat.

We then walked thru to a landing station for the jetty’s from where all of us took some pics of the people performing the rituals and taking a dip in the river. We also had our group pic on the jetty

At around 3 we called it over at the ghats, and after a failed attempt to have some food in The Sizzler (Restaurant at the indoor stadium), we came down to KFC in Park Street. It was a good session as all of us were hungry and we enjoyed the grub. Saikat & Sarajit continued to shoot and did not join us in KFC.

After the food we had another round of clicks in KFC after which we called it a day. Members are requested to tag their pictures KWSTARPAN280908 and post it to the group pool.

Its a group of Kolkata Amateur Photographer who goes out to shoot on weekends.

Primarily started by a few of Kolkata's Amateur Photographer to share photographs from the weekend shoots which were getting increasingly addictive. Now open for anyone who wishes to spend a few hours of the weekend on passionate photography, out on the streets of Kolkata. So this is more of a facilitator for the offline activities of the member photographers.

Post your pictures from the weekend shoots; suggest the next week’s venue and even plan a small weekend photographic trip! Any discussion to do with photography in general and Kolkata in particular is welcome. Please refrain from posting pictures from your private trips

Read The Rules Below Before You Join:
•All members need to participate in the weekend shootout. But then all will not be able to make due to other priorities of theirs, thus each member need to attend atleast one shootout per month.
•In a month we will have at least two shootouts, max four.
•Shootout will be on Saturday / Sunday / any holiday of that week, so we will plan the same in the running week. By Thursday of that week, we will finalize the location.
•Shoots may not be necessarily within the city. We may go out even, nearby the city.
•No members will be allowed to post any other pics other than weekend shootout shots in the pool. If any members who want to post something not related to weekend shootout, can open a thread and post SMALL versions of their images.
•All shootout will have a theme / specialty / subject etc.
•Every weekend shots will be tagged with the date stamp of the DDAY and theme.
•For the first time admin will select one best photograph from the 1st weekend shootout. The shot will be placed in HALL OF FAME ( HOF ) thread.
•The HOF will be introduce two weeks after the first shootout.
•The photographer of the same shot will be the then judge and will choose the next HOF shot. The judge has to reason why s/he felt so. Judge’s decision is final.
•Incase the judge is not able to complete the selection, the admin reserves the right to select the HOF pix with reasons.
•All such activities need to be over by Friday night of the third week.
•All weeks for us starts on Friday only.
•On the third week from the shootout, we will have HOF pix in the HOF thread.
•Rules are prone to get amended / deleted on the practicality ground. Thus members are requested to point out any such impracticality in the rules.
•Last but not the least, members who does not abide the rules will be remove from the group without any intimation what so ever.

Send us a request to Join only if you adore photography and are serious enough to consider sparing a few hours of a lazy weekend on not-very-sane shoots. We would like to have more of photo-mates, not members.

Report:Weekend Shot: Kumartuli Phase V(21.09.08)

Venue-Kumartuli
Date-21:09:08.
Time-8:00 a.m.
Meeting Place- Shovabazar Metro Station
Members Confirmed
1.Aparna
2.Aruni
3.Amitabha da
4.Atanu
5.Bijit
6.Dizzie
7.Dibyendu
8.Himadri
9.Joyjeet
10.Krish
11.Piyush
12.Shamim
13.Sudip
14.Sarajit
15.Sudipta
16.Subhomoy da
17.Sukanto

Guest
1.Debu

Durga Puja is knocking at the door and KWS is also ultra active in capturing the essence of Idol making at Kumartuli.So we decided to continue with our shoots of Kumartuli this week also. This was the fourth time KWS members were visiting Kumartuli in this season for weekend shoot and we were also super excited about the fact that this was the highest gathering of members in KWS history.
As decided we met infront of Sovabazar Metro Station.Subhomoy da only goofed up the time and reached 1 hour earlier.Me,Joyjeet ,Dibyendu and Dizzie reached after that and joined him at around 7.45a.m. and was followed by Atanu, Shamim,Amitabha da and Bijit.We waited there upto 8.30a.m. and decided to move in and told the members who were late to join us directly over there.
As we entered Kumartuli we found that the artists has started painting the idols. We spread out in small groups asusual and in the meantime other members also reached.
We got a few good frames as usual,as during this time this place is a Photographers Heaven.At 10a.m. we had to call it a day as the sun was literally scorching us and the heat was just unbearable.So we took the group pic and take the way home.
Members are requested to tag there pictures KWSKUMARTULI210908 and post it to the group pool.

Report:Weekend Shoot - Kumartuli 14.09.08(Phase IV)

Venue: Kumartuli
Date: 14:09:2008
Members:
1. Shamim
2. Sudip
3. Atanu
4. Bijit
5. Joyjeeet
6. Sumi
7. Piyush
8. Saikat
9. Rajarshi
10. Subhasish (Guest)
11. Krish
12. Chobiwala
13.Himadri
14.Aruni
15.Subhomoy da

As decided the members met infront of Sovabazar Metro Station @ 7am. Few of them were already inside kumartuli and have started shooting (Piyush & Saikat). We moved to the location at 7:30am. I guess ½hr was the grace period given to members coming late. On the way the group spread to smaller ones. During the 1st hour most of the studios were closed and not much activity in terms of artisans, but as the day progressed and work begun in Kumartuli the place turned out to be a photographers heaven. Most of the studios didnt object to oure shooting their works and were very helpful only one place we faced opposition (a guy came up and said that we are not allowed inside thou he didnt object to our shooting from outside). Abhijit (Chobiwala) had a bad day coz just after he changed the lens of his cam it showed up some functioning problem and he cudnt use the shutter button properly. He got very pissed off. Krish joined us preety late just and was only available for the group photo. After that the group dispersed and left Kumartuli for the day.
Members are requested to add the tag KWSKUMARTULI140908 and post there pics to the group pool.

Report : Weekend Shoot - Pet Market (07-09-08)

Venue: Galif Street Pet Market
Date: 07/09/08
Members:
1.Rangan
2.Vivek
3.Sudip
4.Aparna
5.Atanu
6.Sumi
7.Joyjeet
8.Dibyendu
9.Subhomoy da
10.Amitabha da
11.Saikat
12.Piyush
13.Subhasish
14.Ayan
Meeting place for the shoot was Bagbazaar Bata. I am not sure if all reached on time; because I came late. :) When I reached the place which is just at stones throw distance from Bata; everybody was already inside and got busy in shooting.

The pet market mainly deals in all kinds of pets like puppies, birds, rabbits, fishes and some other stuffs too. Flowers and plants are at the other end; though you have so many. The first thing comes into mind seeing the market is VIBRANT. So many people, so many parallel transactions, bargains. So many varieties, so much for so cheap ... so lovely it is. I was not clicking though; watching much of it.

Others as I saw were busy as expected. To add, nobody from the merchants had any problems regarding our cameras. We made a chaos for sure; so huge today's group was.

After one hour or so, we walked down towards Maa Sarada's Home and found a beautiful old temple near sovabazaar metro crossing. Naba Brindaban, it is called. Rangan gave the pointer.

Before that we had a long session of group photo! :)
We had a colorful umbrella with us and someone took a sakhi type photo of mine... :(

We were expecting some portraits inside the temple premises, but found it very peaceful and not crowded as other temples in Kolkata. Maybe because it is inside a typical Kolkata residential area (para) or because it is early in the morning.

KWS photographers (:-P) as you know are enthusiastic lot. People tried out wide angles lying down and putting their camera inside the grills. (guys, please post photo if you have captured this activity!)..

Called it a day after this. Guys, please post your photographs and complete the report.
Pls TAG your photo KWSPETMARKET070908.

Report:Weekend Shoot of Ambika Kalna 31/08/08

Venue: Ambika Kalna
Date: 31/08/08
Members:
1.Aparna
2.Aruni
3.Atanu
4.Himadri
5.Shamin
6.Rangan
7.Joyjeet (New Member)
8.Sumi (New Member)
9.Sanjukta (Guest)

We were supposed to meet below the boro ghari of Howrah Station at 7:00. but as some members were unaware of the location of boro ghari we finally met at almost 7:40. The train left as per schedule at 7:53. There was nothing memorable about the train journey apart from the perek incident (check the BabaUncle & Co thread)
We reached Ambika Kalna at 10:00. After a long barganing session with the rickshwawala we hired 5 rickshaw and set out with our trip.
The first stop was Rajbari Complex. The star attraction of the complex was the 108 shiv temples distributed in two concentric circles. The outer had 74 while the inner had 34 temples. Next we continued to the Pratapesvara Temple, this is a Deul (single tower) type temple with intricate terracotta work. The other two major temples in the complex are Lalaji Temple & Krishnachandra Temple both containing 25 steeples and intricate terracotta works. There are other minor structures like 5 Aat Chala (8 sloped roofs) temples,a rsh mancha and several other structure. We spent more than an hour phorographing this complex.
Next we moved on to the Baduri para for the Gopal Bari (25 steeple mandir), Siddheswari Temple (dochala, 2 sloped roofs) and finally to Ananta Basudev Temple.
Finally we moved on to the Hooghly river ghat for the Jaganath Temples. Three temples with beautiful terracotta curving stands over looking the river.
This was the last group of tempes covered by us and we fnally called it a day at about 1:30. After a heavy lunch we decided to drop our Pundooah leg of our trip. A long chat session followed in the restaurant (I don't remember the name, can any one help me) which was followed by a group shot in front of the Ambika Kalna station board.
This was a wonderful day out for KWS and inspite of the heat & humidity we did enjoy a lot. But it could have been for more worse, at least it didn't rain at all during the entire shot.
But Kalna had unlimited photo opertunities and one trip is not enough, so we hope to return again with all those who missed out on todays trip.
Pls TAG your photo KWSAMBIKAKALNA310808.
Trip report written by Rangan Dutta

Report:Shoot at Eastern Railway Museum, Howrah 24/08/08

Venue: Eastern Railway Museum, Howrah
Date: 24/08/08
Members:
1. Aruni
2. Aparna
3. Shamin
4. Sudip
5. Sudipto
6. Bijit
7. Atanu
8. Rangan

I rangan, a new member along with fellow new members Atanu & Bijit joined five seasoned KWS members in the shot of Eastern Railway Museum. As indicated we met at the front of the ER main gate at 3:00 pm, from where we walked for 500 meters to reach the gates of the museum. The museum has several sections like
The Hall of Fame
The Signal Section
A miniature Howrah station
A tow train (presently under maintanence)
Rail Section
Locomotive & Coach Section
The sections are seperated by lush greel lawns decorated with beautiful flower-beds, dominated by a central tower like structure.

Some of the major exhibits of the Museum are:
A steam engine from East Pakistan, captured during 1971 Indo-Pak war
A narrow guage steam engine of Darjeelin Himalaya Railway
A steam engine similar to Fairy Queen (Oldest operating locomotive in the world)
A steam crane
First broad guage electric locomotive of India
A steam road roller

Although we had a great time shooting this vintage pieces but frankly speeking the museum doen't posses much of a photographing opertunity. Going by my personal opinion I would say the Delhi counterpart has much more vintage pieces and photographing opertunities are enourmious.

But we did have our share of entertainment. We enjoyed out group shot possing on the edge of a vintage engine. But the height of entertainment was provided by a non-member. A kid addressed his male gurdain (mind the word) as Baba-Uncle. We were not sure whether the man was first a baba and then an uncle of the boy or the other way round? But I am sure Aparna & Aruni will throw some light on this issue.

At about 6:15pm we left the museum and Aparna, Aruni, Shamin, Bijit and Atan called it a day. Sudip, Sudipto and I continued our venture to shoot the illuminated Howrah Bridge.

Crossing the Howrah Bridge on Foot we arrived at the Mullick Ghat at about 7:00pm. Only the violet lights along the top edge of the Howrah Bridge were lit at the time. The locals at the ghats informed the the other lights will be lit soon. We waited till &:20pm but no more lights were lit. So left with no choice we settled down to shot the illuminated Howrah Station on other side of Hooghly. Even we tried our best to shoot the lowly illuminated Howrah Bridge. At about 7:30pm we called it a day and headed for home, but as soon as we crossed the overbrdge to reach Stand Road we found the entire bridge lit up in its full glory. But we were too tired to go back for the shot. Anyway better luck next time.

Before end I must thank all the members of KWS for providing me this wonderfull photshot experience, i also thank the members for provinding me the opertunity to write this report. As per Sudip's instruction I have been through few of the earlier reports and tried to maintain the format. I hope I haven't given too much of documentation of the trip and hope you are not bored reading such a log stuff.

Pls tag today's pics as KWSRAILMUSEUM240808

Pls upload in both Flickr & Orkut.

Report:Shootout at Kumartuli - 17.08.2008(Phase III)

As planned, we met in front of Indian Made Foreign Liquor off shop at Shovabazar. What a place to start a day ;) …..

Members present

Aparna
Diganto
Aruni
Sumitava
Sukanta
Abhijit


Sukanta is a new member and had joined today.

The time was 9 AM … but Sunday laziness saw us assembling at 930 AM.

We moved inside of Kumartuli and first went to the ghat. There we spend sometime and then came back to the actual location.
Aruni & me were there last week, this week we did found lots of activities, but very similar to that of last week as they are completing the idols in phase wise.
We manage to get good quantity with quality shots.
Going back to the same place next week can leave us monotonous. We should come back to this place maybe after 2 weeks……… I feel.
As usual these people are very cooperative to the extent that we don’t disturb them.
After the shoot, we had our group shot and then we changed ourselves into KOLKATA FOOD HUNTERS. Had snacks at Monginis … and at 12.15 PM, we called it a day.

Members are requested to upload their pics in Flickr & Orkut with tag KWSKUMARTULI170808

Report:Kumartuli Shootout - 10.08.08 (Phase II)

This week only two of us been to the KWS shoot.

Me & Aruni…

@ Kumartuli…

At 10AM, we meet at Sovabazar .. from there we moved to Kumartuli. Well, been in Kolkata since my birth, this is the first time I ventured over there .. and with my camera.

We spend solid 2 hours shooting 194 frames. I find the place to be photographer’s paradise. If you don’t create a mess, jam, and inconvenience for them, you can shoot like a king …. We did … Aruni went a step ahead .. asking them to pose for his camera …. The people are quite friendly… as long as you don’t interfere their territory ….

We meet lots of others photographers, but all in small team ….. one or two in a team …. and shooting …

I think we need to go back there for the next few weekends ……….. lots of actions available …

Today shots are available with tag KWS100808KUMARTULI.

Report :Princep Ghat And Alipur Zoo(03.08.08)

Location: Stand Road and Alipur Zoo
Date: Sunday, 03, Aug 2008
Members Present:
1. Sudip Roy
2. Shamim Ahmed
3. Krishnendu Chakraborty
4. Subhashish Ghosh
5. Sumitava Ghosh

Tag: KWS03082008ZOO

hi frnds me a new member at KWS this was my first visit to Princep Ghat and Alipur Zoo with some different motto... At first me Sudip Da and Shamim da met in front of Zoo @ 7:15 AM by we found it to be closed... we came to know it opens at 9 AM... From there we planned to go Princep Ghat so without wasting time 1st we started walking from Alipur Zoo to Princep Ghat but after reaching Hastings we realised that its too far to walk down. after that Sudip da decided to hire a cab and reached Princep ghat. in the mean time we informed Krish Da to reach Princep Ghat instead of Zoo...when we reached Princep Ghat we met Krish Da.... then there we really had some nice snaps of nets being thrown by the fisher men at the shore.... and then at about 9.30 AM we again got back to Zoo... and at Zoo we had to wait for Subhashish Da for 10 mins....... we some how managed to buy tickets and entered.... inside the Zoo we had real good pics of Deer and some animals.... Some deers were giving such poses that u people u didn't wud not believe untill u see it.......... due to lots of grilling we were unable to point many other nice birds...... at last we met the rain at about 10:45... at that point of time we all people were hungry so shifted inside the restaurant placed in the Zoo... and we finished the tour at 11.30 AM.

And another wonderful shoot came to a end.


newaz dear frnds me being a new member and this being my first Weekend Shoot i realy enjoyed it and had lots to learn....
i reeally thank Sudip da, Shamim Da, Krish Da,..... for helping me and teaching lots abt photography...........



Weekend shooters are requested to post their shots to the group pool in Flickr first followed by Orkut and don't forget to add the TAG.

Friends This report is wriiten by our new Member Sumitava as he doesn't have a Flickr a/c I am posting this report here on his behalf.

Report: Weekend Shoot Kumartuli on 27-07-2008 (Phase I)

Location: Kuamartuli, Kolkata

Date: Sunday, 27th July, 2008

Member's Present:
1. Amithabha da
2. Aruni (khud@ j@@ne)
3. Diganta (dizzie)
4. Vivek (lock stock)

Tag: KWS27072008KUMARTULI

This was an odd shoot for me. For the 1st time, we were meeting for a shoot not in the early morning but at 9.30 am. (yeah, I know we went for some shoots in the evening too).So, I didn't exactly think much about the traffic I would face coming to the meeting point, which was at a famous juice store, Sharma's at C.R.Avenue-Vivekananda Road Crossing, and I reached a little late. Amithabha da was already waiting there. Vivek came a few minutes after that. Aruni had decided to go to kumartuli directly as he was running late. So Amithabha da, Vivek and I started for the place. When we arrived at Kumartuli, we saw a big sign where it was written that photography is prohibited. But Amithabha da assured us that if we shoot as if we belong there, we won't be facing problems from the locals. I had great fun shooting the various stages of idol-making. The details on the idols have to be seen to believe. They were so lifelike. Won’t go into the details of the history of Kumartuli and stuff, because I am not a authority on that but any pandal - hopper during the pujas should make it a point to come here to experience the labor that goes into creating all those Idols that we get to see during the pujas.
At around 11 am, after deciding we would come back here again after some time, we all decided to call it quits and went home.
And another wonderful shoot came to a end.

Weekend shooters are requested to post their shots to the group pool in Flickr first followed by Orkut and don't forget to add the TAG.

Report:Weekend Shoot North Kolkata:20.07.08

Date:20.07.08
Members present :
Aparna
Aruni ( Khud@ j@@ne k )
Himadri
Guests :
Suman
Suman

Photoshoot started from Babughat at 6:30 in the morning .But as usual members were late . Himadri was the last member , reached there at 7:20 am .We walked through the Strand road .Our main interest was street photography & portraits .

After mallik ghat ( fuler bazar ) we found out some beautiful street moments .In front of ahiritola ghat , we find out an old lady , atleast 80 years of age . All the members tried different angles on her .At last she became very angry .Suman Da gave her a 5 rupee coin to cool down .Then we moved on to kumartuli. After some time, we decided to stop the photoshoot at around 9:45 am & that was the end of the show.

Members are requested to add tag KWS200708NORTHKOL on their uploaded pics .

Himadri took the entire responsibility for the report .But due to some reasons he was unable to make it . I wrote it very fast. Documentation is needed for each shoot; that is a must! :)

Thanks
Aruni

Report : Zara Nachke Dikha – 11.07.2008 @ G D Birla Savaghar

After we got the info of this program from 91.9 Friends FM, we decided to shoot the program as one of the weekend shoot of KWS. In the past we had tried our hands on rock music, but shooting a dance program was new.

We collected enough pass, thanks to Aparna, her friends, Suman, his friends, that the no of the passes were more than the club members presents. Sudip, Aruni & Aparna had to called of due to some urgent personal commitments. We distributed extra passes over there.

Members presents :

Abhijit ( Banshiwala as in Flickr )
Suman
Shamim ( without camera )
Vivek
Diganto
Abhijit ( Chobiwala as in Flickr )


The show started at 630 PM and the emcee ( Master of Ceremony ) was Sidhu of Cactus fame. You can also see him in Mirrakel.

The judges were there and also guest artists to perform.

The program, is a warm up show for a reality show schedule to be telecast on Star One. This is going to be a dance challenge between 8 guys & 8 girls.

We were sitting in the 5th row from the stage, just in the middle.

The lights were perfect, giving opportunities to shoot fast and slow shutter shots.

We have a great time in shooting fast moves with slow shutters and vice versa.

Apart from shooting we also cheered the performers, making people laugh of loudly and enjoyed the program.

Well, in this shoot we missed two things… food & group shot.

Members are requested to upload the shoot photographs with tag KWS110708ZaraNachkeDikha.

Report: KWS shoot at Judges Ghat

Location: Judges Ghat, Kolkata

Date: Sunday, 6th July, 2008

Members Present:
1.Aparna
2.Ayan da(flickr)
3.Somak da
4.Shamim da
5.Sudip da
6.Diganta (dizzie)
7.Vivek
8.Aruni
9.Suman

TAG: KWS06072008GHAT

After the raath yatra shoot, this was way way way less exciting! But never the less. All shoots won't be as exciting as the previous ones. That we all have to accept. This has personally been a very memorable day for me. It could be my last shoot for quite sometime with KWS. I am leaving for Mumbai on 18th of this month (Anirban must be the happiest man on earth!!!!). I don't know whether I'll be able to join the next shoot or not. But try my heart out I will-Shamim da, Abhijit da, let's positively have a shoot next weekend......
We met in front of the Judges Ghat at the stipulated time. We walked from Princep Ghat to Eden Gardens station and searched every ghat for photos. We did manage to find a few spots from which great photographs can be taken, took some great photographs.
We discussed some future plans for the betterment of our photography skills. And after having taken a few shots, we headed back home having had quite a fun filled shoot.
Regards,
Suman
P.S. Ayan da r barite imported iillish eseche...kahoyae ni...sudhu golpo suniyeche aar chobi dekhiyeche!!!! very bad!

Report: KWS goes jai jagannath!!! iskcon raath yatra

Location: Raja Subodh Mullick Square or Wellington Square

Date: 4th of July, 2008

Members Present:
1.Sudip
2.Suman
3.Shamim
4.Aparna
5.Diganta (Dizzie)

TAG: KWS04072008RAATHYATRA

This is perhaps the first photo shoot in the history of KWS that a shoot is being held on the Weekdays. It was late last night, that this programme got conceived and finalised. I called aparna and abhijit da late at night to ask them whether we are going or not. I will confirm that since many members were present, and all of the active members, who have provided us with their contact numbers were informed, hence this is being “converted” as an official shoot. We met in front of the “Raath”. The extent of the activity was overwhelming. It was so full of life. Immediately we went out shooting. We had so so so many chances. The sheer number of the devotes made shooting a little uncomfortable. But this can always be granted as a new experience. The idols were taken out from the shrine and taken to their chariots. Various rituals were performed. And many were singing kirtans. And the life in that, was exceptional. It was contagious. One couldn't help but dance with them. I don't know about the others, but I certainly did swing to the beat!
There were many tablos. They were depicting various gospels from the ancient texts. We had food after that. We really did need that. Shamim da joined us in between. Hardly had we completed the food did the raath start to roll. We had many opportunities then. People were dancing, pulling the chariot. There was animation everywhere. People were really having a great time. And what a divine time it was!!! We were moving along with the chariots. Taking photos, pulling the chariots, dancing with them. We were one of them today, and it really felt great!! By the time the charoits reached Moulali, I was out of batteries, the others, out of gas. We parted with the chariots, thinking of all the pics we took and the special experience that we had.

Regards,
Suman

Report: KWS on BIG 92.7 FM live!!!!

Location: Big FM studio, Millennium City, Sector V

Date: 29th June, 2008

Members Present:
1)Abhijit (chobiwala)
2)Anirban ( Guest Appearance Live From Mumbai) :-)
3)Aparna
4)Krisnendu
5)Sudip
6)Somak
7)Shamim
8)Suman

Today has been a momentous day for Kolkata Weekend Shoot and all the members who are a part of this group. This is perhaps the first time that an on-line photographic club, who have had this privilege. We were invited to attend the Sunday BIG Chumuk. As enthusiastic we all were, we reached our destination before time. In fact we were ahead even of RJ Neel, our host. She is supposed to be very strict with timings. Avijit da snatched the opportunity. He told her, “well you are late today, so may be we should dismiss YOU from the office and take over the show”. She had no answer to that. But she did take that out on Shamim da!!!! Poor fellow! Shamim da told her that she plays nice music. To that she retorted “I'll plays songs only in Raat er Otithi then”. We were laughing our heads off. Shamim da could not be found anywhere. I hope he doesn't kill me for revealing this. We sat there and thought about ways to present KWS to Kolkata. We had coffee, took a few shots. After sometime we joined Neel in her studio. After acclimatising ourselves there, we got on-air. You all know what happened after that. But between live broadcasts, were were really pulling Shamim da's legs. What you heard on air was a mere fraction of what happened. Actually, somehow, Neel herself had taken the lead there. Oh! And a last word about Shamim da's miseries. He got so angry, so angry, that he charged at Somak da with a pencil, because he also added insult to injury.

After we went off-air, we had breakfast at their cafeteria. Had lengthy discussions with Neel and had an adda of our own. At around 11:30am, we left the place with really special memories and wondering how BIG a day it has been for KWS.

Report:Discussion on Post Processing (21:06:08)

Location:KFC Park Street.
Date:21st June'08

Members:
Abhijit (chobiwala)
Anirban
Aparna
Aruni
Diganta (Dizzie)
Krishnendu
Somak Ray
Shamim
Sudip
Sudipta
Suman

This time we decided to do something different rather than shooting we settle for a discussion on post processing which will help us to edit our pictures better.As decided we meet in front of Music World Park Street. When I reached the meeting point already the rest of the gang was there waiting for us. As usual Anirban was late, we went to KFC as Anirban told us to proceed.After a few minute Anirban arrived and to our surprise there was a very special guest with him Suddhajit da we were admiring his works for a long time and he is a great landscape photographer.The discussion was really enriched with his presence as he gave us very usefull tips with photoshop.But before that Anirban explained us about calibarating our monitor. Suddhajit had to leave early as he had some prior appointment but he really enriched us with some great know how.A very special thanks to him.
Then we shared our knowledge with each other.And as usual all discussion followed by the bucket full of yummy chicken.But at the end we really gained great knowledge from this session and I think we should arrange one such discussion once every month.

Report: POddar Court & Nakhoda Masjid photoshoot

Location: Poddar Court Market and its vicinity and the Nakhoda Masjid
Date: 16th June, 2008.

Members present:
1) Anirban
2) Abhijit (chobiwala)
3) Sudip
4) Shamim
5) Suman
6) Aparna
7) Diganta (dizzie)
8) Somak
9) Ayan (flickr)
10) Aruni
11) Himadri
12) Abhijit
13) Debangshu

Guest Appearance:
Indranil & Sanjukta

Tag: KWS150608PoddarCourt&NakhodaMasjid

This was a much awaited shoot for me personally. I knew from conversations with other members that their last visit in this area was very fruitful (or is it momoful??).

We met at the bowbazar and central avenue crossing at 7am and proceeded to poddar court market. It was overwhelming to see the life that it exuded. It really was ideal for street photography. I noticed a marked difference from other places where I had tried shooting people in the past. You don't have to be brazen here. As long as we don't disturb anybody they are happy to let you do your job while they go about theirs. This was a welcome surprise to me. We clicked photos to our hearts content. There were many with whom we even struck up conversations. They really did have the best attitude and certainly were at their best behaviour. There were so many of us, and it did with time get a bit congested. Few of us were daft to the extent that they would shove the camera right up their faces. I requested them to take a leaf out of their subject’s books. If they respect your space, respect theirs too. It’s the thumb rule of street photography.

After we had shot to our satisfaction, we proceeded to the Nakhoda Masjid. While en route to Nakhoda Masjid, we got a few more street shots. We were also witness to the acrobatics, rather the attempted acrobatics of Anirban, while trying to shot a few bathing men. This was looking dangerous to all of us. I have got to give it to that boy. He really is dedicated to photography to such daring extent.

Then we reached Nakhoda Masjid. This is where the report now becomes comical, hilarious to be even more precise. We got confronted by few who work at the masjid. They asked us to get permission. This we could not get even by trying to explain to them our purpose. We could not make out, how, many and a considerable many could get pictures of the masjid, while we were being denied. The local police officer in charge of security came from the police station. He was really nice and helpful. But even he could not put any sense into them. We hence had to leave the premises with a handful of shots that we had managed, before we got stopped. But really, to explain the predicament we got ourselves into. Somak da got tagged as the conspirator-in-chief, charged for smuggling a tripod inside the masjid in a handbag, which was a baseless claim. Really next time he should pretend to be carrying a “bazooka”!! Someone from us who was supposedly taking macro shots got labelled as THE suspect. And then Aruni steals the show. I have never ever heard such a remark, as Aruni uttered there. The police were being told that we all had our Identity Cards. Aruni stood up and said “I have my ATM card”. Now, what can someone say to that? We were laughing our heads off!! Even the officer enjoyed it!

This fracas got followed by a brief spell at the Royal restaurant. We then proceeded to Bose Pacia, Park Street. Here Photographs by Trent Park are at display. The photographs are stunning and his use of light and shadow has considerably moved me. Concluding our photo shoot at Park Street, we headed back to our homes, thinking about our day, the photos we took and the many experiences of the day.

Regards,
Suman for KWS.

Members are requested to post their photos in flickr and orkut and add the tag.

Report : Kalighat Shootout - 08.06.08

Location:Kalighat Temple and Surrounding Area
Date:08:06:08

Members Present
1.Abhijit
2.Krishnendu
3.Somak da
4.Suman
5.Sudip
6.Vivek

TAG:KWS080608KALIGHAT
Its been 2 weeks for me that I was not in the shootout for various reasons. And I was eagerly waiting for this weedend shoot.

This time we decided to visit Kalighat, famous for Goddess Kali. Though photographing is banned within the premises of the temple, photography is possible in the surrounding. This place, Kalighat is also famous for a so-called wrong reason. Well, you will find prostitutes dens around this locality. Our objectives were not to touch this section, to shoot around the temple, mainly street photography. Since this place is a bit risky, fearing the interferences of the pimps and agents, we were actually looking for a local link.

Thanks to Indira, wife of Sudip, who helped us in this matter. She, through her professional contacts, know Mr Prabir Banerjee who happens to be one of the trusty of the temple. With her help, we approached the concern person and things were so easy for us to shoot.

As planned we gathered in front of the Kalighat Police Station at 7AM. The team was Sudip, Somak, Krishnendu, Suman, Vivek and me. This is the first time, in my knowledge, Anirban, was not there in the KWS shootout. Right now Anirban is in Mumbai. And KWS is missing him badly.

We first surveyed the place, had breakfast and then approached to Mr Banerjee. Mr Banerjee welcomed us with open arms. Took us to the roof from where we found the temple shoots will be difficult due to the Sun. Next he took us to a building very next to the temple and from there we found the temple in a clear view. Well, due to restrictions, we are not able to shoot inside the temple but enough shoots taken of the temple. We got introduced to some other people of the locality and all were quite happy to see us taking photographs. What we feared, turned out to be wrong. These people proves to be quite friendly, though not very sure if it is due to Mr Banerjee.

After the first phase of the shootout is over, Mr Banerjee took us to his house once more and treated us with Kochuris, cold drinks & Rossogollas. He also provided us with some facts in an around the temple. As per him some 2000+ families are surviving due to this temple. Like the flower vendors, the sweet vendors, the tea vendors etc … and then there are very negative reports about the location specially due to the pandas. Well, at one point of time these pandas were really a pain and hell lots of complain used to poured in to the police regarding them. Now things have changed a lot. And we found it to be true. Pandas no more force people to do pujas against hefty money.

After completing with our fabulous breakfast, we thanked Mr Banerjee and proceed for Adi Ganga. This, as it is said, happens to be the actual old Ganga. The water is filthy and smelling hell out of it. Its was getting difficult for us to stand it. To our surprise we found people are bathing in that dirty water. I had never seen water so black till date. I wonder how people use that water. That place can be tagged as the worst place in Calcutta, and I wonder if any one does anything to make Adi Ganga clean. We left this place within 15 mins.

After this Somak, Sudip, Suman & Krishnendu went for Dhobi ghat while me and Vivek retired for the day. I request either of the 4 musketeers to add in the report what they did in Dhobi Ghat.

The credit for experience of Kalighat completely goes to Indira, who had helped us a lot to gain knowledge. We from KWS thank her for such a great effort. THANKS INDIRA.

Members are been requested to upload their shots tagged as KWS080608KALIGHAT in Flickr and Orkut.

Report:Indian Meuseum Shoot 25:05:08

Location:Indian Meuseum
Date:25.05.08

Members Present
1.Anirban
2.Aparna
3.Aruni
4.Himadri
5.Krishnendu
6.Shomak da
7.Sudipta
8.Tanayesh

TAG:KWS250508MEUSEUM


Hope u people had a great time shooting as nobody has the time to post the report I am posting it but unable to write what happened out there so if u people had the time plz pour in your feedback.
Thanks.

Report: Park Street Cemetery Shoot 18.05.2008

Report: Park Street Cemetery shoot out - 18.05.08
Location : Park Street Cemetery and surroundings(street shots)

Date : 18.05.2008

Members Present:
Anirban
Aparna
Ayon
Indranil
Krishnendu
Sudipta
Sudip
Suman
Shamim
Tanayesh

TAG: KWS180508Cemetry

7:15 am, We stood outside the Park Street Cemetery with excitement and eerie feeling because this kind of shoot was new to most of the members present.

We tried to enter the Cemetery(The one which is still in use) but was stopped by the guard at the gate as he said Photography was not allowed. Standing outside we tried out various strategies to enter however we gave up in 10 flat mins and moved on the other gate where The Cemetery is declared as a Heritage Place and currently not in use. We were told we can enter only at 8am.

We moved on to the streets to shoot streets while we waited. And few of our members got few nice shots.

7:50 am- We went to the cemetery to enter. But can you believe Kolkata being punctual? We were made to wait till 8am before we could enter and entered sharp 8am. It was a different experience as we had never seen such great Graveyards.
The oldest grave we could find was dated back till 1778 and the most recent was 1898. We clicked some nice shots and took our great and dynamic group photo. We left the place around 9:15am

By this time our stomach started to send SOS to us and we headed for KFC, Park Street. There we took few shots of interior and had Chicken Buckets and Pepsi. Food in KFC is just Awesome!!! We moved on to esplanade for more street shots.

Thanks to Aparna we were treated at Ralli’s by her. If you are surprised wish her Happy Belated Birthday.

By 12:30pm we planned to go back and left with memories of a great day.

Members are requested to post their pics in this thread and also to the Group Pool.

Report:Street Shoot out + Seminar-11th May'08

Location: Esplanade and surroundings + Seminar
Date: 11:05:08
Members Present
Anirban (Korbo Lorbo Jitbo Re)
Aparna
Abhijit (Chobiwala)
Aruni
Diganto (Dizzie)
Himadri(HSR)
Indranil (tya(n)sh goru)
Krishnendu
Sudip
Sudipta
Shamim
Somak
Tanayesh
Vivek Mukherjee


TAG: KWS110508STREET


This time we took a bold step in KWS we decided to shoot streets and life on streets.Chances of getting subjects were minimal coz we dont have any clear idea what we r going to have but still we decided upon it. As decided we met in front of Birla Planetorium at 7:00 A.M. sharp.We ventured into the streets of that area hunting our subjects.It was a tough experience and all people were not that camera friendly as our dear friend Anirban got badly abused by a old footpath dweller whom he tried to shoot.We still continued our venture till 9:30 a.m. in the morning then we pushed of to Lytton Hotel where we were supposed to have a seminar with Visage Images regarding stock photos.The Content head of VisageImages Mr.Arvind Chenji took the briefing session along with there Eastern Zone sales head Mr.Saurabh and very well explained us what stock images are really whats in the market and whats in deamand,and other legal aspects......it was a great session and we learnt alot from it. The session was followed by a huge breakfast and they stuffed us pretty badly. From there most of the members left we few people went to Bose Pacia to see a exbition by some of the eminent photographers on "Plural Perspective" that was a relly good show featuring photos of eminent people like Bresson,Raghu Rai,etc.
Above all it was a great experience and will look forward to do something like this more often.

Members are requested to post their pics in this thread and also to the Grp Pool.

Report : Mullick Ghat shoot out - 04.05.08

Location : Mullick Ghat and surroundings

Date : 04.05.2008

Members Present:
Anirban
Aparna
Abhijit
Aruni
Diganto
Shamim
Somak
Sudip
Sudipta

Today a new member joined us, Aparna (our lady power). This is the first time we had any female member present in our KWS shoot, though there are quite a few female members in the members list.

It had been a month for me that I had not been able to make to KWS shoot. This shoot was equally important to me to ensure I bid the rules of the club.

I reached in front of the Mullick Ghat pumping station when I meet Shamim, another member been out of shoot for a along time, around 7AM

We went together to the location and found Diganto, Sudip, Sudipto, Aruni and Soumak are already there. A few chitchat, Anirban reached with Aparna.

We start our day.

Keeping Ganges to our left, from Mullick Ghat, we started walking and shooting towards Nimtala Ghat, which is also a burning ghat.

The whole location is a heavy potential place to shoot, with friendly people all around. We did had a great time shooting the whole stretch.

At the end of the shoot I was sad. This is first time when KWS shoot ends without any food. Anyway we called it a day once we completed our group shoot.

TAG: KWS040508MULLICKGHAT

Weekend shooters are requested to post their shots to the group pool in Flickr first followed by Orkut and don't forget to add the TAG

Report:Maidan -01-05-08

Place:Maidan.
Date:01.05.08
Members Present:
1.Anubrata.
2.Rajib.
3.Shamim.
4.Sudip.

TAG:KWS010508MAIDAN

The plan for maidan shoot was made in a pretty short notice so lot of our members coudln't join due to their earlier commitment.But still we four were there and was a bit anxious as it was a hot summer afternoon.We meet in front of Birla Planetorium as decided, Anubrata and Rajib was a bit late so they called us asked to continue with the shoots.So me and Shamim was on the track to search for our subject.We were taking pics of horses near Victoria when Anubrata and Rajib reached.We got some good pics over there and moved on as we saw some horses grazing on the green fields just opposite to Maidan across the road and the scene was almost like the ranch we see in western movies. We also got some good candid shots of families who came there to have a evening walk. Lastly Anubrata and Rajib decided take the launch from the Millenium park and plan to shoot the setting sun over the Hooghly river where as me and Shamim decided to be there for the rest of the time left..............lastly we took some pics of victoria but thanks to the management before before we can took some more the lights there went off.So we called it a day and went back.


Weekend shooters are requested to post their shots to the group pool and dont forget to add the TAG

Report: Kusti Akhara & Ghat Shoot- 27:04:08

Venue: Loha Ghat

Date: 27/04/2008

Photographers Present:

Anirban
Ayan
Aruni
Diganto
Indranil
Krishnendu
Rajarshi
Shamim
Subhamoy Sinha Roy
Sudip
Sudipta
Somak
Tanayesh

Tag: KWS270408KUSTI

Initially it was decided that we would try to shoot the wrestling clubs on the banks of the river. Poor me, though I reached at 7 in the morning; it was already over. Learned that they start from 4 in the morning.

Same was the case with almost all the people. Indranil and few others got some shots. And later it got transformed to a Ghat shoot. People with interesting faces, Sadhus were not camera shy. Boys were diving from the top of an abandonned jetty.

We were lucky to get Shamim. After a long period, Shamim joined us. Though he had to leave just after the Ghat shoot.

We took the group shot at Mallick Ghat and walked towards the other side (right side if you are coming from Kolkata) of the bridge.

We walked through the famous mallick ghat flower market of Kolkata. Weekend shooters were as a matter of fact searching for hot Jalebis and Kachauri. The other side of the bridge, I did not explore before. It was a surprise to me when I saw Jagannath Ghat is the one on the right; and not that one which we used to usually take photos of the bridge from.

There is an abandonned warehouse just beside Jagannath ghat. We tried to shoot some old structures. Just at that point a man advanced and told us not to shoot as that was a prohibited area.

Sudip, Subha Da and myself had sattu sharbets. It was much different and very very tasty! And the man selling it was a charming fellow. we continued towards Bara bazaar and stopped at a sweet shop. Kachouri was not ready and we tried some sweets till they came with hot Kachouris. After the usual long session of food, we called it a day.

Anirban, Tanayesh and other people were not full though, went to check for some more. I will remember the incident when the mini bus driver was waiting with loaded bus for Aruni who was buying a green mango. I realized at that point that Kolkata people are still different. This is probably the reason why I travel 440 kms each and every
weekends and come home. This is a place I love to call home.

Guys, please add and post photos in small format in the thread. Please give a link back to your stream and post the same photos in the pool...

Report:Basanti Highway -20.04.08

Venue:On the Basanti Highway
Date:20:04:08.
Photographers Present:
Sudip
Anirban
Ayan
Diganto (Dizzie)
Indranil
Krishnendu
Somak
Aruni

Tag:KWS200408BASANTI

Well well well.. One Tata Sumo, 8 photographers, scorching heat... we were out to Basanti. Just after Science City (if you are coming from Salt Lake side), there is a diversion where you need to take left to Basanti, the point where tourists get launch for Sundarbans.

Our first stop was just near Bantala Leather Complex where we found two people carrying Tari, a local liquor. We could not take the risk to taste though. :) We got some beautiful trees with red (krishnachura) flowers. The entire place is full of ponds used for fish breeding. Second time we stopped at a place called "Ghatakpukur", we had parathas for breakfast.

Not long after the place we stopped and shot some landscapes and tried macros. The Sun was already mighty enough. Next stop we took only at Basanti. This point is the entry for Sundarbans. We could not afford to go to Sundarbans as we did not have time. It was calling us though!!

We rested for a while. Had a photography chat, clicked some group snaps and started again for Kolkata. The heat outside was just too much. Still we stopped many times midway and shot landscapes, some minimalistic and macro photos. Heat bowled out almost everyone. We tried to survive by Coconut water. Anirban lost his ability to communicate; we got a scare-crow on the way and Anirban on seeing that shouted: Stop the car. We can shoot the Anti Crow Mechanism!!

I myself made mistakes.. :) People were very tired, still happy to get some decent frames in spite of the Sun.

Please add the tag to your photos and post!!

Report:Maniktola Fish Market -13.04.08

Venue:Maniktola Fish Market.
Date:13:04:08.
Photographers Present:
Anubrata
Anirban (Korbo Lorbo Jitbo Re)
Ayan (flickr)
Diganto (Dizzie)
Indranil
Krishnendu
Rajarshi
Sudip
Subhamoy Sinha Roy
Tag:KWS130408MANIK
After a brain storming session on yesterday we finally decided to go and Shoot at Maniktola Fish Market which is supposed to be one of the biggest fish market in Kolkata.So as per plan we met in front of the market.The enthu of the group was very high.But inside the market the lights were too bad and it was a challenge for us to get some good pics.But still we manage to get some.After that we have our breakfast,we had kachuri,jalebi and tea, and after we went to Chatubabur bazar where we heard the Charak festival is going on but reaching there we came to know that the main prog will start at 4P.M. and the scorching sun was almost taking all our energy.But thanks to the enthu of Anirban we went to a place near Girish Park to shoot pigeon and we also had Lassi from Sharma's.Overall it was a good shoot there were challenges but overall we all enjoyed it.
So weekend shooters are requested to post there pics in the report thread and to the Group Pool.
Pls dont forget to tag your photos before posting it to the group pool

Report: Poddar Court Shoot-06-04-08

Venue: Poddar Court
Date: Sunday 6th April, 2008.
Photographers Present:
1. Anirban
2. Abhijit
3. Ayan
4. Sudip
5. Krishnendu
6. Diganta
7.Indranil
8.Amitabha da
9.Rajarshi
10.Somak Roy
11.Shubobroto da
12.Rajarshi
13.Subhomoy Sinha Roy

Tag: KWS060408Poddar

The report for this shoot :
Today I think we have the biggest gathering in KWS. We met outside central metro station at 7.00A.M. sharp. From there we went to a China market near Tota Shah Mazhar where the chinese of Kolkata sells authentic chinese food in the morning we shoot there for a while
along with that we have those delicious food for our breakfast.The people of the market were very cordial and unlike other places they were very supportive while we were taking the pics I had a gr8 time shooting them,I was not willing to leave the place so early but everybody insisted to go to another place to get some new shots as the market was getting monotonous. From there we went B.B.D.BAG where we shot the heritage buildings and the trams.From there we came to Maidan and there also we took some shots.From Maidan me and Diganto left and the rest went to an exibition in Park Street.It was a great day and we had a great time with good photos and good food:)).
So Weekend shooters are requested to add their shots to the group pool as early as possible.And pls dont forget to add the tag.

Report : Rock show shoot - 28.03.2008

Venue: Vidya Mandir ( near Minto Park )
Date: Friday 28th March, 2008.
Photographers Present:
1. Anirban
2. Abhijit
3. Shamim
4. Sudip
5. Krishnendu
6. Diganta

Tag: KWS280308Rock

The report for this shoot :

Its was Monday when Anirban called me and informed about a shoot on Friday. This time the shoot will of a rock program. Never tried these shoots, we planned to go ahead with this shoot for a change.

This is the first time KWS went to shoot on a Friday in place of Saturday & Sunday.

Thus today Anirban, Shamim, Sudipto, Diganto and self were in front of hall where 10 rock band was going to rock.

Well, with due respect to ROCK, I gladly announce that I can’t follow a single word of the lyrics …. On the other hand I found myself in middle of 10000 watts of music…. The lights are very low for any shoot. We needed fast lens, which were not with us. So there was lots of hindrances in this shoot. It was a great learning.

Well, the bands came, performed, rocked the audiences and we went on clicking shots. I found few performers were really rocking ….. they know how to make the audiences dance to their tunes.

Rocking shooters are requested to upload their shots soon.
upload this 1st in flickr
then in orkut

Report: Esplanade (22nd March)

Venue: Esplanade (near metro cinema)
Date: Saturday 22nd March, 2008.
Photographers Present:
1. ayan
2. anirban
3. shamim
4. sudip
5. krishnendu


Tag: KWS220308Esplanade

Well, first report of kws. Will try to make short. :)
Saturday noon, had lunch late than usual. Called up anirban, he was already in metro. It was almost 2 in the afternoon, the scheduled time. I literally ran.

Metro cinema was the meeting point, I could not find anyone there. Krishnendu and Sudip were in MM, buying an expensive flashgun.

Anirban was chatting with Nikon shop guys. Shamim came a bit late, it was almost 3:00 when we all met. We had a brainstorming session to find out where to go/ what to shoot! This one was a unplanned shoot, and we finalized for Jagannath/Mallick ghat side. Sun was mighty and we really could not take chance for street photo in and around Esplanade.

It was Holi day, people were coming from nearby places to the river for a dip. Flower market was little lazy, did not get much crowd over there. By nature, it is bit dirty as always. Anirban, Krish and Sudip were busy shooting in the market while we (read, shamim & myself) went ahead to the ghat.

The colour of water became complete red near the banks. So many people were bathing at a time! It was difficult to get a decent angle though.

We left the place and walked down to Armenian church. No luck, security men informed that it was closed for the day. Got a cab to dharmatala. We had yummy fruit shakes and juices. Krishnendu bought some clothes from a big shop (:(, i forgot the name). Anirban casually had a chat with the manager and managed to get some shots inside the shop.

Thanks to Shamim, though he was pretty tired (we all were, by the way) agreed to go to the new South City mall with us. South city mall, from outside, was looking like Bangalore forum. But this one is bigger in size. Inside it was very tempting for shooting. Nothing was mentioned about photography. We gave it a try. We were shooting for long when a security person approached me and told that he had got no problem if it is a still photo; but video was strictly prohibited. Later, some smarter guy popped in and told that photography was not allowed. I guess, they themselves are not sure about the exact rule. Anyways, we got what we wanted. :)

We had Raj Kachouri, Delhi Aloo Tikki Chat etc... at the food court and called it a day.