Usually the summer is the busiest time of the year for me. Usually I do not enjoy myself or have time to do something I truly engages me. This summer I was presented with an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of homeless inner city children as a mentor and teacher of photography. Silent Images saw a need for a summer program that would inspire the children to see outside their situation and maybe spark interest in a future career.

Over the last two months I had the pleasure to work along side other professional photographers and volunteers every week teaching the children the technique and artistry of photography. We were only able to teach the basics but lessons on perspective and composition started to change the way the children looked at the world. The improvement from week to week really impressed us and my group of students impressed me every time they touched the camera.

Since this was such a special time for me I wanted a keep sake to remind me of this time. So during the last week I decided to grab my trusty white shoot through umbrella and a flash to take a few portraits of my own. I wanted lighting to be minimal and dramatic, something that just focused on the children to create an intimate portrait bringing out their quality and innocence.

Unfortunately two of my four students could not make it to the last class but “M” and Kevin graciously sat on the edge of the stage for a quick portrait. “M” warmed right up to the idea. She is quite and reserved until you start talking to her, then her personality shines through and her eyes light up with enthusiasm. Kevin was hesitant not really wanting that type of attention turned on him. He would much rather sit over to the side and tinker with the camera but with a little coaxing he decided to humor me like a child at Christmas and give into my demands. After the first few shots he finally warmed up and that sly grin of his finally shows through.

The memories of the time spent with these children will be with me always.