The 2023 Visual Communication Design Department of the Surabaya Integrated Science and Technology Institute (ISTTS) visited the Surabaya Zoo (KBS) on March 28 2024. This visit was held as a practice for the Applicative Photography class, taught by Mr. Herman Budianto. This activity, which was attended by 32 students, had the aim of practicing photography material that had been studied previously, such as human interest, wildlife and landscape photography.

At 7 am, students were seen gathering in the campus area, to leave together. This departure was divided into two groups, with campus cars. There are also those who use private vehicles. When we arrived at KBS, before starting, there was a group photo session first. Then, the students were allowed to split up and go around with their respective groups. Several students were seen bringing their own cameras.

The students eagerly started looking for subjects to photograph and prepared to capture the moment. At KBS, there are many animals that can be photographed, such as various types of birds, Komodo dragons, crocodiles, giraffes, deer, zebras, lions, orangutans, tigers, monkeys, and others. From there, students can try doing wildlife photography. When doing wildlife photography, students must practice patience in waiting for the right moment. Sometimes, wonderful or funny moments of animal interaction happen suddenly, and they have to be ready to catch them quickly. Apart from that, they also learn to adjust the camera so they can capture the uniqueness and details of the animal. Not only learning photography, they also interact with these animals. With this interaction, it is not uncommon to capture good and interesting moments.

At KBS there are also beautiful views and quite lush trees, as well as quite tall buildings. The building is up to five floors high and visitors can climb it by climbing the stairs. This is used by female students to take landscape photos from above. The atmosphere of the building is also suitable for doing portrait photography. Then, to practice human interest photography, there are many food and drink sellers there who can be good photo subjects. Apart from that, there are also other visitors who can immortalize the moment between visitors and animals. When taking human interest photography, good composition and lighting are needed so that the photo can be successful in conveying meaning and feelings to the observer.

Then, at 10.00, several students started to return to the starting point to prepare to return to campus and the first group departed. However, at more than 10 o'clock, it rained quite heavily so that the students who were still at KBS were forced to take shelter first. Finally at 11 o'clock, the rain started to stop and the second group started to return to campus by car. The photos that have been taken will later be edited first and collected in eClass. Then, it will be discussed and discussed together with the lecturer in class next week.

This visit to KBS provides a valuable opportunity and comprehensive learning experience. They can try and explore the various sciences of photography, from understanding proper angles of view and composition, to the importance of appropriate lighting and accurate camera settings. Mr. Herman, as a lecturer, also provides direction, tips and examples to students so they can produce beautiful and high-quality photos.

In a new and interactive atmosphere, this visit encourages students to be more enthusiastic and enthusiastic in the learning process. They exchange ideas and engage in discussions that enrich their understanding of photography. Not only that, this activity also strengthens ties between students and lecturers, and creates a mutually supportive and enjoyable learning environment.

By holding this activity, it is hoped that DKV students will gain a new perspective on the world of photography. They will see photography not just as a hobby or skill, but also as an art form that requires deep understanding and appreciation. Through this experience, it is hoped that their interest in photography will further develop and be well maintained.