More than 100 personnel of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) joined a Knowledge Sharing Session (KSS) on fundamentals and techniques of mobile photography conducted through a hybrid modality on September 23, 2026, in Mandaluyong City, with Rita dela Cruz, Training Specialist IV, Training Division of the DA-NFRDI, serving as resource person.

The participants, composed mostly of DEPDev staff involved in information, education, and communication (IEC) production, communication, and project monitoring, took part in the activity titled: “Stories Through Smartphone Stills: A KSS on Mobile Photography and Basic Photo Editing,” organized by DEPDev through the Development Information Staff–Knowledge Management Division (DIS–KMD).

Dela Cruz shared practical techniques on using mobile devices to capture photographs that effectively document and communicate government programs, activities, and accomplishments. She emphasized that government photography should go beyond simply showing that an activity happened.

“A government photograph should do more than show that an activity happened. It should help people see why it matters,” she said, underscoring the importance of being intentional in taking photographs.

Her presentation covered three main topics: role of photography in government communication, fundamentals of photography, and mobile camera basic. She also demonstrated how composition techniques can be applied when covering activities and events using Michael Rosenblum’s five-shot method to create a more complete visual narrative.

Dela Cruz also highlighted photographs as knowledge assets that can strengthen government communication products by helping audiences better understand the work, initiatives, and accomplishments of public institutions.

To complement the photography session, Earl Jerome Dimapilis, Information Officer of DEPDev’s Multimedia Development Division, discussed basic photo editing using various software.

In her message, Micaela Papa, Director IV of DEPDev’s Development Information Staff, emphasized the importance of being intentional in taking photographs. She noted that the session would help personnel develop practical skills in producing photographs that are not only technically well-composed but also aligned with the Department’s quality and submission requirements.

Through engagements such as this, NFRDI contributes its expertise in communication and knowledge sharing to strengthen the capacity of government personnel in effectively documenting and communicating public-sector work. ### (Rita dela Cruz)