Kenya’s first photographers association launched

By Wangui Gichuru

Dozens of photographers congregated at PAWA254 Nairobi on Thursday for the launch of the Photographers Association of Kenya (PAK).

PAK is a fairly new association that was registered in December 2012 and the  objectives  for its conception includes to have a body all professional photographers can associate with as well as promote the general advancement of the art and science of photography and all its application.

In attendance at the first ever members session were reputable photographers and artists including the renowned architectural photographer, Mutua Matheka, Ben Kiruthi of Faithful Frames largely known for wedding photography, David Macharia of Versitile photograpy amongst others.

An array of issues were discussed on how to improve self as well as others and how to generally become a  better photographer. Speakers of the day, who ranged from diverse backgrounds, included Caroline Muchiri of Caryaka Insurance who basically advised the photographers on how to go about insuring their equipment. Also speaking was Ann Koki from Kenya Union of Savings & Credit Co-operatives Limited (KUSCCO), a representative from Imaging Solutions and also Robert Mutahi, the Art Director in advertising at The Nation Media Group (NMG) who talked about commercial photographer.

Service providers in the photography industry were also present at the event and had the opportunity to showcase their products that included photo books, mounts, frames and other products

New members had the opportunity to register with the association as well upon which they received branded merchandise ranging from T-shirts , camera straps amongst others. Bernice Macharia, a photographer at Living Images Technology, Kenya, could not hide her excitement when she received her merchandise “Am so happy for this”, she said. “Plus this is a very good initiative and its eye opening” she said.

The launch marked the beginning of a new era for the Kenyan photographer in the realization of having a stronger, effective and fulfilling photography fraternity.

First published in February 2013.