Case study

GMDC (Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation)

Working in 45°C: Capturing Mining Responsibly

Project Snapshot

  • Client: GMDC

  • Industry: Mining (Lignite)

  • Location: Kutch, Gujarat

  • The Goal: To show how GMDC protects the environment while running massive mining operations.

The Challenge

This wasn't just about taking good photos; it was about working in a very tough environment.

  • The Heat: We were shooting in Kutch during peak summer. The temperature was over 45°C, and inside the mine, the black lignite coal made the ground feel even hotter.

  • Moving Targets: A mine changes every day. The huge dumpers (over 25ft tall) never stop moving, and the landscape is constantly being dug up.

  • Strict Timing: We had very specific time slots to shoot at different locations across Gujarat. We couldn't ask the mine to stop working for us.

Our Approach

We knew we couldn't just walk in and start shooting. We had to plan for safety and the sun.

  • Night Scouting: Since the mine changes shape every day, checking the location in the morning was too late. We went to the site late at night to plan exactly where the sun would rise and where we could safely stand the next morning.

Safety First: In that kind of heat, people can faint easily. We didn't just worry about cameras; we monitored our team's hydration and sugar levels constantly. We also kept a close watch on the "live" fire zones (common in lignite mines) and moving trucks to ensure everyone went home safe.

The Execution

  • Balancing the Sun: Shooting at noon in a mine usually makes photos look harsh or dark. We used powerful battery-operated lights to balance out the strong sun. This helped us get clear, professional images where you can actually see the details of the machinery and the people.

  • Visualizing the Story: The client wanted to show "Protection." Instead of abstract shots, we focused on the sheer size of the machines versus the care the workers put in. We made the tough work look organized.

The Result

  • Where it’s used: The images became the main theme for their Annual Calendar and were used for their complete branding campaign that year.

  • The Relationship: We didn't just do one shoot. Because we handled the difficult conditions well, GMDC has trusted us to document their mines for the last 3 years.

Conclusion

This project proved that environmental responsibility isn't just a policy—it's a visible process. By facing the harsh elements alongside the miners, we captured the raw reality of their commitment without compromising on safety or aesthetic quality.

Need visuals that withstand the elements? Let's discuss your next project.

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