The Frame & Focus: Advanced Photography Course — a 12-week program presented by The VII Foundation, Tasweer, Qatar Photographic Society (QPS), and Qatar Museums — concluded last week with a final screening and celebration in Doha. Thirteen emerging photographers based in Qatar developed their storytelling skills through a dynamic structure that began and ended with intensive in-person sessions, bookending ten weeks of online lectures, assignments, and mentorship.

Course Leader M’hammed Kilito — a contributing photographer to The VII Foundation — was supported by Ziyah Gafic (Program Director) and Rola Khayyat (Curatorial Lead), with guest instruction from Andrew Jackson, Anush Babajanyan, Anne Foures, Christopher Morris, Chrysovalantis Lamprianidis, Espen Rasmussen, Ilvy Njiokiktjien, Joachim Ladefoged, Marc Pelletreau, Rena Effendi, Sarker Protick, Tanvi Mishra, and Tomas van Houtryve.

Week 12 brought the cohort back together in Doha for a final in-person experience. It featured a hands-on artifact photography workshop at the Museum of Islamic Art and intensive editing sessions at Tasweer Studio. Under the guidance of curator Monica Allende, students finalized their projects before sharing their work at a public showcase that celebrated the diverse visual narratives produced over the course.

“This program is about much more than photography — it’s about equipping emerging photographers in the GCC with the tools and confidence to craft and share their own narratives,” said M’hammed Kilito, Course Leader. “I’m proud of each student’s growth over these 12 weeks — their commitment, curiosity, and the quality of their final projects were truly impressive. We remain committed to supporting them as they continue their journeys.” 

“This program reflects The VII Foundation’s core mission — using education to empower new voices and strengthen independent storytelling globally,” said Ziyah Gafic, Program Director and Director of The VII Foundation, Sarajevo. “Collaborating with Tasweer, QPS, and Qatar Museums allowed us to build something meaningful and regionally grounded. We’re proud of what the participants accomplished and look forward to continuing this work with future cohorts.”