8 Feb | Leica Explore: Capturing Tradition - Dragon Joss Stick Making, Penang with Sanjit Das & Suzanne Lee

Workshop Overview

Step behind the scenes of one of Penang’s treasured traditional crafts with Leica Akademie Malaysia. This half-day photowalk offers an exclusive opportunity to document the intricate process of traditional dragon joss stick making at a working artisan’s workshop at the height of Chinese New Year’s preparations.

Through careful observation and guided discussion, participants will learn to capture the texture, rhythm, and cultural significance of this unique craft. The outing emphasizes storytelling through photography, combining both documentary and creative approaches.

Whether you are an experienced or an aspiring photographer, this session provides insight into a rich cultural heritage while refining your technical and visual storytelling skills.

Parallel Sofort Youth Session

Running alongside the main photowalk is a Leica Sofort session for children and youth (ages 6–15), led by Suzanne Lee. As part of a small focus group, young participants will be encouraged to explore the joss stick workshop with curiosity and instinct — observing colours, shapes, textures, and the emotional atmosphere of the craftsman’s workspace.

All children below 12 years of age must be accompanied by one parent or guardian during the photowalk.

Who This is For
Photographers interested in traditional crafts and cultural documentation.
Leica users or anyone passionate about hands-on photowalk experiences.
Intermediate to advanced photographers looking to expand visual storytelling skills.

Workshop Highlights
Exclusive access to a traditional joss stick-making workshop.
Guided tips on photographing artisanal processes and textures.
Hands-on photowalk with mentorship from a documentary photographer.
Opportunity to appreciate and document a heritage craft.

Date & Location

Date: 8 February 2026
Location: To be shared upon successful sign-up

Agenda

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch Meet & Greet + Introduction

Discussion of shooting techniques, storytelling approach, and Leica tips

2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Photowalk & Shooting Session

Guided photowalk inside the workshop

Observe and photograph artisans at work

Focus on textures, details, and process documentation, geometry

Mentorship and feedback while shooting

5:00 PM: Adjourn to a nearby venue for informal discussions and depart.

What To Expect
1:1 Interaction: The instructors will spend time with participants during the walk, offering feedback and guidance on technique, composition, and storytelling.
Build confidence in photographing a documentary styled photography shoot.
Develop a narrative eye, learning to see connections between moments rather than isolated frames.
Practical insights on sequencing and quick methods to build a cohesive photo story.

What's Not Included
Camera (participants are required to bring their own)
Transportation, meals, and beverages.

Note
This workshop requires a minimum of 4 participants to proceed.
In the event of insufficient sign-ups, your payment will be refunded.
Out-of-town participants may also opt into a complimentary photowalk session on 7 Feb 2026, extending your Penang photographic experience.