Current Occupation: Humanitarian Photographer
Workshop: Project South Africa
Nonprofit Assignment: Mdzananda Animal Clinic – Khayelitsha
Instructors: Jamie Rose

Photo © Dilla Djalil/Momenta Workshops 2016

1. What motivated you to take a workshop and why did you pick Momenta?

I am always “hungry” to join workshops. If there is a term for “workshop junkie”, I will definitely fall into that category.

I like participating in workshops because it makes me feel motivated to create a story, to make things happen in such a short time frame, and to deliver a good product by the end of it.

I get my adrenaline rush by doing so. I chose to join Momenta workshop because of the location of the workshop which was South Africa and also because Momenta is doing documentary workshops, which really appeals to me.

2. What surprised you most about the country you visited or the experience of working with a nonprofit?

I joined the workshop with an open mind and didn’t have high expectations at all except I was determined to work hard in order to deliver a good story with good images. However, I was surprised with the fact that transportation can be quite expensive in that country. I hired a car and a driver on a daily basis to take me back and forth to the non-profit animal clinic and that came with a price.

3. What was the best lesson you took away from your workshop?

Working together with non-profit organization has opened my eyes about being more compassionate. It is moving to see so many gifted people working so hard simply because it means so much to them.

4. What was your favourite photograph from this workshop & why?

I love this photograph because of the dynamic of the setting at the afternoon mobile clinic and the layers of people with their pets waiting for their turn. They are lovingly holding their pets and unaware of my presence.

5. What would you tell a potential student to help them prepare for their experience with Momenta?

Come with an open mind and open heart. Be disciplined with the time management, and be patient too. There will be good shooting days but there will be bad days too. Be prepared to push yourself out of your own box and comfort zone.

Dilla Djalil-Daniel’s Biography:

Dilla Djalil-Daniel is a photographer currently living in Jakarta.   

See Dilla’s work: 

Website: http://www.dilladjalildaniel.com