Introducing Children to LF Photography

[dperez]

In an effort to expose my 11 year old nephew to the world outside of video games, I brought him with me to Yosemite Valley this past weekend. I let him use my 4x5 and I taught him some of the basics.

He learned how to level and zero the camera, and I taught him about compositional movements. After a few minutes under the dark cloth he had everything the way he wanted, and was able to focus the camera without my help. I kept things very simple for him and did not teach him how to use tilts or swings.

He also learned to use my light meter and set the shutter and aperture on the lens. He made a few exposures on Tmax 400, and had some difficulty understanding the concept behind positioning the darkslide after exposure; I think he was just afraid to make a mistake. I told him that every now and then we all make mistakes, and not worry so much. I think that helped him build some confidence.

I tried to stay off the camera most of the time and I just coached him along. Later he thanked me for teaching him how to use the camera and asked me if he could use it again. If he stays interested, I'll buy him his own 4x5.

-Daniel

[Lffbug]

That's great! I wish a lot more kids could be exposed to photography rather than certain alternative activities. Too bad there aren't more (grown up) LF'ers to teach kids.

On a related note I thinks it great to see such a spread in age on this forum. Teenagers and folks in their 80s, and every age in between. Helps to keep me encouraged that LF is still alive and well.

Keep up the work.

[Kirk Gittings]

good on you!

Without my reading glasses on I could have sworn this thread title was about chickens.....

[knjkrock]

good on you!

Without my reading glasses on I could have sworn this thread title was about chickens.....

That would have been fowl.

[Leszek Vogt]

That's coolio, Daniel. Bravo! Bridalveil must be running pretty close to full strength.

Les

[Preston]

good on you!

Without my reading glasses on I could have sworn this thread title was about chickens.....

Kirk, if it's any comfort, I did exactly the same thing! I could've sworn it said 'chickens'!

Daniel, it is great to see this! Your nephew is obviously having a good time.

--P

[dperez]

Yea it certainly looked that way. My preference is to visit in the winter, but I enjoyed being out there this time.

-DP

That's coolio, Daniel. Bravo! Bridalveil must be running pretty close to full strength.

Les

[FlyingGiraffes]

That's awesome! My little brother (age 13) is curious about all the different pieces of equipment I have. It's fun explaining the different things to him, but he's not really into photography itself.

Am I too old to be your nephew?

[DennisD]

Bravo, Daniel !

What a lucky young man and what a wonderful and important gesture on your part.
I hope he will continue his curiosity and interest in LF photography - thanks to your introduction.

It sounds like you're off to a great start... especially letting him handle the camera himself with your advice. And certainly no better place than Yosemite !

Now, ASAP - get him into the darkroom and show him the 'magic'.

Dennis

[cdholden]

Daniel,
i'm in a similar position with my 10 year old. She's had sporadic interest since she was 8. While the outings are a good way to spend time together, she's more interested in the darkroom. That look of amazement never gets old.
Chris