In the bustling heart of India’s capital, where stories unfold at every corner and every street offers a new perspective, the Delhi Photography Club (DPC) has emerged as a creative sanctuary for photography enthusiasts from all walks of life. What started as a personal pursuit soon became a movement—thanks to Virendra Singh Shekhawat, an avid traveler and ex-banker who turned his passion for photography into a thriving community initiative.
A Vision Rooted in Passion
After a successful 13-year career in banking, Shekhawat took a leap of faith and founded the Delhi Photography Club to nurture his own love for the lens. But what began as a personal project quickly grew into a collective journey. DPC provided a much-needed platform for beginners, hobbyists, and amateur photographers—those who often lacked formal access but possessed a strong creative instinct. The club offered them not only technical know-how but also a sense of belonging and purpose.
Today, DPC is India’s longest-running photography club, operating under the Prayatnsheel E-Venture Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting photography among the masses and children. Over the past 15 years, the club has evolved into a vibrant ecosystem of learning, expression, and cultural dialogue.
A Platform with Purpose
The Delhi Photography Club isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about access and empowerment. The organization’s initiatives include a wide range of activities: photography workshops, heritage photo walks, themed photo tours, exhibitions, and consultancy services. These activities are designed to make photography accessible to everyone—irrespective of age, gender, or economic background.
DPC has conducted specialized workshops for several prestigious institutions and organizations, including the Postal Academy (Dept. of Post), Border Security Force (BSF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), NDRF India, IIT Delhi, BITS Pilani, and Oxford Policy Management. In a significant contribution to formal education, DPC served as the trade expert for redesigning the photography curriculum for vocational training schools under the aegis of the Ministry of Labour, Government of India.
One of the club’s most impactful efforts is its free photography workshops for underprivileged children in Delhi. These sessions not only teach the art of photography but also give young participants a new lens through which to view their world—instilling confidence, curiosity, and creativity.
Showcasing Untold Stories: 100+ Exhibitions and Nicefoto
One of the Delhi Photography Club’s most significant contributions to India’s creative landscape is its steadfast dedication to providing platforms for amateur and hobbyist photographers. Over the past 15 years, DPC has hosted more than 100 photography exhibitions, specifically curated to spotlight emerging talent and provide visibility to those who might not otherwise find space in mainstream galleries.
These exhibitions go beyond just display—they are celebrations of personal vision, community expression, and creative exploration. For many participants, DPC’s exhibitions serve as their first opportunity to present their work to a public audience, transforming personal passions into public narratives.
A particularly notable initiative is “Nicefoto”, an international celebration of amateur photography. Conceptualized and hosted by DPC, Nicefoto is more than an exhibition—it’s a movement recognizing and honoring the spirit of everyday photographers. From students to retirees, hobbyists to travel buffs, Nicefoto brings together a diverse community of image-makers whose works reflect the pulse of real life—unfiltered, emotional, and honest.
Through events like Nicefoto, DPC helps dismantle the myth that impactful photography is the exclusive domain of professionals. It champions the idea that anyone with a camera and a story to tell belongs in the spotlight.
These exhibitions are often themed to encourage creative focus—ranging from street and travel photography to abstract, monochrome, and cultural narratives. Whether held at art centers, community spaces, or digital platforms, each DPC event is thoughtfully curated to offer learning, networking, and recognition for its participants.
By fostering this culture of inclusivity, Delhi Photography Club has helped launch hundreds of creative journeys, giving photographers a sense of identity and purpose beyond the lens.
A Global Cultural Collaborator
DPC has forged strong international ties, working closely with 18 embassies from the GRULAC (Group of Latin American and Caribbean Countries). These collaborations have resulted in numerous cultural exchanges, exhibitions, and showcases that bring global perspectives to Indian audiences.
Noteworthy among its global collaborations are events such as:
In addition, the club also works with institutions such as the Russian Information Centre in India, expanding its cultural reach and programming.
The Digital Footprint
DPC’s presence isn’t limited to physical spaces. With over 215,000 followers on Facebook and more than 43,000 on Instagram, the club has built an engaged online community that extends its influence far beyond Delhi. This digital presence allows the club to reach photography lovers across India and around the world, offering tutorials, challenges, and virtual showcases.
Looking Forward
As the Delhi Photography Club continues to grow, its mission remains rooted in the belief that photography is for everyone—a universal language that can inspire, empower, and connect. Under the leadership of Virendra Singh Shekhawat, DPC continues to push boundaries, promote cultural dialogue, and elevate the art of storytelling through the lens.
For those who believe in the power of images to transform perspectives, the Delhi Photography Club is more than a club—it’s a movement.
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