Photography Workshops · Kolkata & India

Learn to shoot
India the way it
deserves.

Start with Kolkata — the city I know best and have called home for over a decade. Then, if you're ready, take that same eye across the rest of India.

Shivam Pandey teaching photography on the streets
Workshop moment Kolkata
Kolkata · In the field
Image review session
Image review session
Varanasi workshop
Varanasi · Group Workshop

Most popular · Kolkata

Private · 1-on-1 · Kolkata · Available year-round

Private 1-on-1 Workshop
in Kolkata

The most direct way to grow as a photographer — just you, me, and the streets I know better than anywhere else.

We spend 3.5 hours shooting together each morning and evening with real-time feedback on every decision. By the end of each day we review your work together and plan the next session.

3.5h Per session
2x daily Daily walks
All levels Skill levels
2+ days Starting from
Enquire about private workshop
Private 1-on-1 Workshop

What we work on

More than technique.
A way of seeing.

Every session is different, but these are the core things I help every photographer develop — regardless of skill level.

01

Reading the street

Learning to observe before you raise the camera — light, movement, energy, and what's about to happen next.

02

Anticipating moments

The difference between reacting and anticipating. How to be in the right place before the moment arrives.

03

Approaching people

How to connect with strangers naturally and photograph them with respect, dignity, and genuine access.

04

Your own rhythm

Not my style — yours. I help you find and develop your own photographic instinct, not recreate mine.

Kumartuli
Kumartuli
Flower Market
Mullick Ghat · Dawn
Wrestlers Howrah
Howrah · Wrestlers
North Kolkata
North Kolkata Lanes

"Shivam knows both of these locations so well and is generous with his knowledge and teaching skills that you will come away with wonderful memories and images. His drive, dedication and focus on me as an individual is of the highest level."

Melissa Haslam

Australia · Kolkata–Varanasi Workshop

"I had lost all drive and motivation after 17 years of photography. This changed in the first 3 days with Shivam. Being a person of high integrity, professionalism and having true concern for those he guides — I cannot more highly recommend this unique, valuable and talented person."

John

Australia

Group workshops · India 2026

Small groups. Big experiences.

Ready to take what you've learned beyond Kolkata? My group workshops take you into some of India's most extraordinary destinations — capped at 6 participants, so every person gets real attention and real guidance.

Kolkata Varanasi Photography Workshop
Group · Max 6 Dec 10-18, 2026 4 spots left

Kolkata Varanasi Photography Workshop

A 9-day expedition through two of India most photogenic cities.

Expert guidance on location
Real-time shooting feedback
Post-shoot image review
Access to exclusive locations
Portfolio critique session
Golden Triangle and Pushkar Camel Fair
Group · Max 5 Nov 11-21, 2026 3 spots left

Golden Triangle and Pushkar Camel Fair

Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and the extraordinary chaos of the Pushkar Camel Fair.

Expert guidance on location
Real-time shooting feedback
Post-shoot image review
Access to exclusive locations
Portfolio critique session
Ladakh Photography Expedition
Group · Max 6 Jul 15-25, 2026 2 spots left

Ladakh Photography Expedition

High altitude photography in one of the most dramatic landscapes on earth.

Expert guidance on location
Real-time shooting feedback
Post-shoot image review
Access to exclusive locations
Portfolio critique session
Hornbill Festival Nagaland
Group · Max 8 Dec 1-10, 2026 5 spots left

Hornbill Festival Nagaland

The most photographically extraordinary festival in Northeast India.

Expert guidance on location
Real-time shooting feedback
Post-shoot image review
Access to exclusive locations
Portfolio critique session
Rajasthan Photography Workshop
Group · Max 6 Feb 10-17, 2027 6 spots left

Rajasthan Photography Workshop

Seven days through the most colourful state in India.

Expert guidance on location
Real-time shooting feedback
Post-shoot image review
Access to exclusive locations
Portfolio critique session
Durga Puja Festival Workshop
Group · Max 6 Oct 1-5, 2026 Only 2 spots left

Durga Puja Festival Workshop

The world capital of street photography for five extraordinary days.

Expert guidance on location
Real-time shooting feedback
Post-shoot image review
Access to exclusive locations
Portfolio critique session
Mumbai Documentary Workshop
Group · Max 5 Mar 5-10, 2027 4 spots left

Mumbai Documentary Workshop

Fast, dense, and full of energy — always in motion.

Expert guidance on location
Real-time shooting feedback
Post-shoot image review
Access to exclusive locations
Portfolio critique session
Varanasi Intensive Workshop
Group · Max 5 Jan 15-20, 2027 3 spots left

Varanasi Intensive Workshop

Five days at the most photographically intense city on earth.

Expert guidance on location
Real-time shooting feedback
Post-shoot image review
Access to exclusive locations
Portfolio critique session

What past participants say

In their own words.

"This was an exceptionally well-organised trip — comfortable accommodation, delicious food, and a brilliant itinerary packed with inspiring locations. What made it truly special was Shivam's joy, passion, and pride in sharing his country. I came home with unforgettable memories and photographs I'm really proud of."

Lynn

U.K. · Kolkata–Varanasi Workshop

"I cannot recommend Shivam highly enough as our local tour leader in India. He was friendly, easy to chat to about life in India and the places we were visiting. He became an important part of our group whilst maintaining his position as teacher and organiser."

Nicola Elliott

U.K. · Kolkata–Varanasi Workshop

"I was with Shivam for 12 days and got some of the best photos of my life. He knew perfect locations with lots of activity to work with — in addition, he provided advice on both taking photos and editing. The logistics were flawless. He is a wonderful human being and I know we are friends for life."

Bill

USA · Delhi & Jodhpur

"Seeing India through Shivam's perspective has filled me with inspiration, and I couldn't have asked for a better companion. If you ever need assistance in India, please reach out to him — you won't be disappointed. He's the best person to travel with."

Monaris

U.S.A. · Delhi · Varanasi · Rajasthan · Kumbh · Kolkata

Common questions

Before you book.

Do I need photography experience to join?+
Not at all. Both private and group workshops welcome all skill levels — from first-time camera holders to working professionals. A mixed group makes the experience richer. If you're new, I'll help you understand the essentials before we head out on the first morning.
What camera should I bring?+
Any camera works — what matters is how you see. Once you've booked, I'll share a gear checklist tailored to your level and the specific destinations. I shoot on a Leica M11-P, but the camera is the last thing that determines a strong image.
How physical is the workshop?+
Most workshops are rated easy to moderate. We walk for extended periods — typically 3–4 hours per session — but at a relaxed, observation-focused pace. Ladakh involves high altitude with acclimatisation days built in. I always adjust to the group's needs.
What's the group size for group workshops?+
Maximum 5–6 participants depending on the workshop. Small groups mean genuine individual attention on the street, and the ability to move quickly and quietly through the environments we're photographing.
Do I need a visa for India?+
Most nationalities can apply for an Indian e-Visa online before arrival — straightforward and usually processed within a few days. Before any trip you'll receive a full briefing document with visa guidance. Check requirements here →
Can I cancel if my plans change?+
Please read the full Terms & Conditions before booking. A deposit secures your place with clear terms around cancellations and transfers. Get in touch and I'm happy to walk you through the policy directly before you commit.

Start in Kolkata.
Go wherever India takes you.

Get in touch and tell me what you want to photograph, when you're travelling, and where you are as a photographer. I'll suggest the right experience for you.

Enquire with Shivam See photo tours instead
63, Radha Bazaar Street, Kolkata, 700001, West Bengal, India — available year-round
+91 8240668648 kolkataphototours@gmail.com Instagram