Page 9 - John Muir Elementary School - Division 8

Exploring the Lighthouse

“Photography represents the “The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to
world we know, and suggests a see without a camera.”
world beyond what we can see. ~ Dorothea Lange, Photographer
Creativity is the gap between per-
ception and knowledge.”
~ Emmet Gowin, Photographer Reflecting what you see...

Photography is a powerful tool for exploring the world around us. It
causes us to focus more intently on what we are looking at, to look more
closely, pay attention to the details, and take nothing for granted. It cre-
ates an intimate connection with the subject and with the environment
that surrounds it.

While it’s an very personal process, the end result is universal. To appre-
ciate a photograph requires no ability to read, no language in common, no
prerequisite level of education or life experience. Just an ability to see and
to feel, and a willingness to participate.

For this part of the program, we provided each student with a cell phone
camera and some basic instruction in its use, as well a brief overview of
the art of photography. Then we asked them to take photographs while
they were at the lighhouse, focusing on the things that caught their atten-
tion and/or their imagination. When we returned to the school later, each
student chose his or her favourite phoro, and explained why they chose it.

There were lots of amazing photographs – creative and insightful! The
following pages showcase their chosen photographs. Enjoy!

Sheringham Point Lighthouse Preservation Society Page 9