Gitika Talukdar is a well known name for those who are into journalism and specially sports journalism and even sports enthusiasts. Hailing from a small town in Assam, this lady has covered all major sports events for both local and national news agencies. She was also the only female sports photojournalist from Northeast India to cover the Tokyo Olympics
Team Discover East speaks to her about her experiences in the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics.
DE : What was the best moment/ highlight of the event that you captured at the Tokyo Olympics and why?
Gitika Talukdar : The best moment was of course covering Assam’s daughter Lovlina Borgohain. As we both are from Assam, it was a proud moment for me to capture her moves. Another proud moment was capturing Neeraj Chopra winning the Gold medal as our national anthem was being played in the background.
DE :Did the absence of audience impact the captures? How was your experience of shooting without an audience?
Gitika Talukdar : Audience has a different kind of energy altogether. The presence of the spectators impacts the scenario and the environment. Hence, it was a bit dull to work without the audience because their reaction matters a lot. Whether it is in broadcast or print media, the reactions of the audience are always captured.
DE : Japanese is a very difficult language. Did the language barrier affect your working?
Gitika Talukdar : A language barrier was definitely there as English isn’t spoken in Japan. So if it normally takes a minute for the information to be conveyed, there it would take ten minutes for the same message to be translated and conveyed. Despite using translators, the messages were not always conveyed accurately. Ultimately, it consumes more time. It basically hampered the time management.
DE : How was the overall experience?
Gitika Taluldar : The experience was undoubtedly very good. However it was a bit hectic and stressful due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We had to undergo tests everyday and then wait for the results. We always used to be worried about the results as if it turns out to be positive, the entire schedule gets impacted. So, it was risky working amid Covid-19 but by God’s grace nothing happened. Also, the temperature there used to be 38-40 degree out there. Working at this temperature wearing double masks was quite a Herculean task. The weight of the cameras and lenses and other equipment made it tougher.
DE : There were different sports that took place during the Tokyo Olympics. So what kind of changes you have to make to get that perfect shot for each event?
Gitika Talukdar : The changes we had to make were mostly technical. It actually varies from sport to sport. In swimming or gymnastics, speed matters while in wrestling it is slow. So, we make necessary changes in shutter speed, ISO, etc. The light speed and motion also matter a great deal.
DE : From international cricket and football to Olympics, which is your favorite sport and why?
Gitika Talukdar: Every event has its own charm. FIFA is like a carnival. Olympics is more disciplined. I personally love FIFA matches. Schedule becomes hectic in Olympics as there are multiple events.
DE :Of all the sports persons you covered in Japan, who is your favorite.
Gitika Talukdar: I missed many events. I wanted to capture Serbian Tennis player Novak Djokovic. Even though he didn’t win yet I wanted to capture him as he has been a world champion. Unfortunately, I couldn’t manage time as I was busy covering Indian players.
Read more about this lady sports journalist from Northeast India in this interview with Discover East.
