Hi all,
Only a few more weeks left in the semester, but this one was one of my favorite weeks yet!
So this week after plans fell through with going to D.C. we decided instead to head into Center City for a photo scavenger hunt. We got to the city earlier then expected, so we had some time to free shoot around the area. I had a great time doing this because I broke out of my shell a bit and interacted with random strangers, taking pictures of them and making small talk while we waited for the kids.
Once the kids arrived, we broke into groups for the scavenger hunt and were on our way trying to find things. My group consisted of only two people, Suzie and Sean which I thought was better because it gave the hunt more of a personal feeling when it came to teamwork, etc. I had worked with Suzie before and she was energetic as always and glad I was back and I was glad to see hear again too! Sean was a new friend to me, but I quickly hit it off with him as well sharing some insight of mine while working our way around the city.
The scavenger hunt was a great idea, but I think we could’ve been open to more ideas such as the awesome street performers, skateboarders and other aspects of city life surrounding us at the time. I had a great time this week, not only shooting freely during the hunt, but also sharing that passion with the kids.
I had two highlights for this week. The first was when we were completing the skateboarder task on our hunt. Suzie had asked if we could shoot them from afar, and I explained that it’s better to ask than just shoot stealthily. So of course with high energy, she ran over to the two of them and asked if she could shoot them doing some tricks. Without hesitance they agreed and I shared some advice of getting down on one knee to make them appear “larger than life” and also focusing before the trick so she could rapid fire while they were doing said trick. After showing her those tips, she got a solid shot and she was so excited. And it didn’t hit me till afterwards that I taught somebody something to help them improve their work and it made me so happy to reflect on how excited she was upon getting the shot.
The second highlight of my week was teaching Sean the rule of thirds. We were in the forecourt of City Hall and I see Sean shooting with the building straight in the center of the frame. So I explained to him that the rule of thirds can make your photos more interesting. It took him a bit longer to grasp the idea, but after he got it, I saw a quick smile while reviewing the picture.
Ultimately it comes down to those little moments, such as teaching texture and symmetry that make me happy. But it makes me even happier when the kids understand it and can use it effectively. What a great week!
Until Next Time…
-Dan