A wise person once said, “I think a photography class should be a requirement in all educational programs because it makes you see the world rather than just look at it.” During the last month, Zachary Elementary students have had the opportunity to see the world through the lens of a camera. Students traveled to the Cohn Arboretum to experience the art of photography. Prior to this trip, classes were held to teach the students techniques involved in capturing an exemplary image on film. Sharon Turner, a professional photographer from Baton Rouge, taught 300 third, fourth, and fifth graders numerous methods and tips for taking quality photographs. The importance of composition and planning was emphasized as students approached photography as an art form.
The highlight of the unit was a visit from C. C. Lockwood! This renowned nature and wildlife photographer visited Zachary Elementary on April 25th to share his knowledge and photographs through a slide show presentation. The students had many questions for Mr. Lockwood concerning his experiences in various wilderness locations. Mr. Lockwood also donated some of his photography books to the school’s library.
The most exciting portion of the study was actually taking photographs. At Cohn Arboretum students utilized their newly acquired skills to take nature photographs in an outdoor setting. Subjects included birds, caterpillars, ants, flowers, the pond, trees, friends, teachers, squirrels and even a very tiny baby snake! Students were thrilled to experience the art of photography in such a beautiful place as Cohn Arboretum. They are now waiting anxiously for their photographs to be developed so that they can see their original creations. Selected photographs will be exhibited at the Zachary Branch Public Library during the month of May. Be sure to stop by and admire the works of Zachary’s youngest nature photographers. The classes conducted by the professional photographers were paid for by the Zachary Community “ARTZ” Council through donations of parents and community members and funds raised through grants and the recycling of aluminum cans. “This program was supported in part by funds from the Louisiana State Arts Council and the Louisiana Division of the Arts and by the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge through the Decentralized Arts Funding Program.”
