‘I wanted to pursue wedding photography, but the pandemic played spoilsport’

Arushi Thapa, an alumna of Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication (AIMC), says that the interesting curriculum designed for the post-graduation diploma course in mass communication prepared her well for the journey ahead. Currently working as a caption writer at Asian News International (ANI), Thapa talks in an interview about her experience at AIMC, her passion for photography, and more. Edited excerpts:

Tell us about your experience at AIMC.

My overall experience was very good. I was not planning on pursuing a post-graduation diploma course initially. But once I started looking for colleges for higher studies, I chanced upon AIMC. I liked the campus when I visited the college. I had a pleasant interaction with the teachers like Naveen Gautam Sir, who eventually convinced me to apply for the course instead of a full-fledged two-year master’s programme. Looking back, I can say that worked out well for me.

Photography by Arushi Thapa

In what ways did the curriculum work out well for you?

The curriculum was based on inculcating practical knowledge and training. Throughout the course, we worked on different projects, made short films and presentations, which helped explore our talent and hone our skills. It was something I had not been introduced to during my graduation in journalism and mass communication. Thanks to the faculty and my classmates, the one year, from 2018 to 2019 that I spent at AIMC, was a great learning experience.

You started your career as a professional photographer. Have you always been interested in photography?

I have always been interested in photography; I started as early as class 11. I started my professional career in the same field where I did all kinds of photography, from product to food and fashion. I shot some of my friends’ portfolios as well. However, the circumstances amid the pandemic no longer seemed feasible to me to pursue it. So, I decided on working as a caption writer.

What kind of photography do you enjoy the most?

I wanted to do wedding photography, which I find fascinating. But I had to stall my plans due to the pandemic. I am planning to start my photography page on social media very soon.

What do you aim to achieve in your professional career?

I am enjoying caption writing, so I am thinking of pursuing further studies from abroad, preferably a course in content, but it has been on hold due to the pandemic. Simultaneously, I would like to continue photography as my hobby.