With our professor’s permission, I would like to share how I created a photo-driven story for a class I took last summer.
For this project, I decided to attend a cultural heritage camp for youth who were adopted from Ethiopia.
During the day at the camp, I participated in various events while capturing images to try and convey what was happening. I began with a few establishing shots and then took detailed shots to showcase the different aspects of the camp.
In the editing process, I realized that I had taken more photos than I needed. I had to carefully consider which aspects of the camp were most important to highlight in my final story.
Another important step was to conduct research to provide context for the images I took. I looked into the history of the camp and gathered information on the significance of certain Amharic words. Exploring the cultural significance of the crafts, clothing, food, and dances at the event really helped give my images more depth and context.
One of the main challenges I faced was actually taking the photos. At the beginning, I was nervous about photographing people I didn’t really know. Setting aside the feeling that I was invading their space was difficult. However, focusing on the importance of sharing this story, along with the warm welcome I received from everyone, helped me overcome my initial awkwardness.
One thing I wish I had done differently is to interview the founding couple more and get a photo of their faces. I believe that extra personal touch would have really completed the photo story well.
This was an amazing experience that really taught me a lot. I had to step out of my comfort zone and think hard about how an image can tell a story. I definitely recommend taking JASS 406 if photojournalism interests you!
