In 2019, fellow Detroit School of Arts alum Devonte King and I decided it was time to give back in an effective way: by changing the way structured learning and creativity collide. “Photography101: Inside My Lens” gives students what they deserve: the opportunity to have choices, professionally and creatively. Students explore the art of photography and develop entrepreneurial skills.
Telling stories is no longer a past time. Telling stories is now a career pathway. Opening eyes to the world of visual storytelling through digital devices and media provides alternatives to traditional classroom practices.
In this nine-week program/course, students learned basic camera operations, studio lighting, photo editing, and entrepreneurial skills.
During the program/course, students were given the opportunity to go inside a studio and begin building their portfolio. Working hands-on with the equipment truly inspired students to set high expectations and criteria and capture great quality photos.
After completing the course, each student received a photo book of their artwork, and a canvas of their best photo.
The result was an “Inside My Lens” inaugural student photo art exhibit highlighting 21 students’ best photo artwork and displayed in DSA’s art gallery.
Featuring clothing brands, artists, and models, students were ecstatic to show the public, alumni, staff, and their peers their accomplishments. The art exhibit was so successful that other students wanted to know how they can be part of the program.
