Ten-day residential programme in Chennai combines drone pilot training with aerial photography and videography
Chennai, 13 October 2026: Chennai Photo Biennale Foundation’s Kanavu Fellowship and Kala Collective, in partnership with Chennai Drone Academy, invite applications for the Kanavu Aerial Workshop. The 10-day residential programme will take place in Chennai in February 2027 and is open to women photographers aged 18 and above from across Tamil Nadu.
The programme brings technical training and visual storytelling together. The first six days will focus on drone flying and training towards DGCA Remote Pilot Certification. The remaining four days will focus on aerial photography and videography, allowing participants to develop their own images and videos for their portfolios.
The workshop offers women photographers an opportunity to expand their practice and learn skills they can bring to future creative and professional work.
Preference will be given to previous Kanavu Fellowship participants, Kala Collective members, and applicants from low-income or marginalised backgrounds.
Fees and financial support
The self-funded fee is ₹30,000 and includes training, hostel accommodation and DGCA certification. Participants may pay in two instalments: ₹15,000 upon acceptance and ₹15,000 two weeks before the workshop.
Fully funded places are available based on financial need for applicants who cannot afford the fee. Requesting financial support will not reduce an applicant’s chances of selection.
Applicants may also choose to contribute ₹60,000, covering their own participation and supporting a scholarship place for another woman.
Location and dates
The workshop will be held at Chennai Drone Academy in Edapalayam, Chennai. Hostel accommodation and vegetarian meals will be provided for participants staying on campus. Participants commuting daily will receive lunch.
The programme runs for 10 consecutive days, with some sessions beginning at 6 am. Final dates will be confirmed by mid-December based on selected applicants’ availability.
How to apply
Applications close on 30 November 2026. Applicants may complete the form in Tamil, English or a combination of both.
Application form: https://forms.gle/egCcyySWF9eKtLnRA
About the organisers
Kanavu Fellowship is a programme of Chennai Photo Biennale Foundation that works to widen opportunities for women in photography and visual storytelling. This workshop is organised together with Kala Collective, in partnership with Chennai Drone Academy.
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