Sidisha Shyam Barik, the coordinator of the Department of Photography (DoPy) shared her thoughts and experiences in the days leading up to Oasis. DoPy takes photographs of the various events in the fest, and also helps people capture their memorable experiences during the fest by clicking their pictures. 

The Department of Photography and the Photography Club (Photog) were once a single department which later split into separate units. While DoPy concentrates on generating revenue, Photog deals with the more artistic side. DoPy also clicks aesthetic pictures and uploads them on their Instagram handle.

DoPy consists of 40 members with four positions—detailers, clickers, control desk, and the coordinator. The detailers are first-years who look for people who are interested in having their pictures taken. Clickers, the second-years, cover the task of taking pictures, editing them, and posting them on the relevant media. The third-years comprise the control desk and manage the logistical requirements of the department. Finally, the experienced fourth-years take up the position of the coordinator, who oversees the functioning of the department as a single unit.

In Oasis’18, DoPy had a photo-booth and light paintings incorporating the theme—The Far Out Fest. Light paintings are photos that are clicked in the dark with neon paint on the faces of people. They also sold hoodies and other merchandise in collaboration with the Student Union to generate revenue. 

Sidisha and the associate member found this year’s theme to be very extensive and creative. DoPy has planned to incorporate the theme of the fest into their photo-booth and light paintings. The photo-booth will integrate the theme Neon-Noir with more noir props such as the classical period of stylish Hollywood crime dramas, as compared to the usual clown caps and smiley masks.

The preparation of the team in technical aspects of photography has started, with the seniors training the second-years on the minutiae of photography. They are also holding light painting sessions to give hands-on training to the members. 

Sidisha finds that her time as a coordinator gives her the opportunity to interact with other members outside the department. Her past experiences in the department and the journey up the ladder of DoPy were very memorable. The trigger for her to join DoPy were the department members, who instilled in her a love for photography. She invites everyone to “come create memories” at the DoPy stall and have an unforgettable experience of Oasis. 

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