July 24, 2011
“Things I’ve Learned And Share” • Part One
Recently, I had the pleasure of facilitating a photography workshop and discussion with five (5) teenage young ladies as part of a College Bound Program in my home town of Philadelphia PA through my program: Operation Give Back: Photography.
Although I am accustomed to teaching what I am good at and know, I still have challenges when presenting to a group that may not be familiar with who and why I am. I have a way which I can’t explain, that have participants appreciative of the exchange of information. Because, that’s what teaching is; an exchange.
As with most confined spaces that contain this much energy, the ability to capture and hold their attention was a challenge. And anyone that knows me, knows that I like a challenge and usually meet them head on.
On Friday-July 22, 2011, I was challenged by five personalities and ideas. Five teenage girls who at some point, before it became interesting, probably were thinking of all the “other stuff” they could he doing instead.
So, if any photographers who have never been in a “position to give back,” here’s a some steps to take that may help you when the time
comes.
Of course, it begins with using your contacts and reputation as a respected photographer to get the call, one you should accept. Follow the following steps.
1. Prepare and submit an outline and purpose of your presentation. Organizers like to have an idea of what information is to be shared.
2. Know how much time you are working with and the physical space allotted to you and the participants.
3. Create a “script” to follow, one that discusses the creative, therapeutic benefits and business side of photography but be ready to digress at a moments notice.
4. Actively listen to what they are saying and give honest and accurate information. Especially when speaking to teenagers. They will “call” you on it. Some even pretend “not to know” just to see what you know.
Now that we have got the “business” out of the way, I am going to take a break and return with:
“What I’ve Learned About Five Young Ladies”
k/d/morris – photographer
kdmorris photography 
College-Bound ladies were truly honored to have you! Your seminar with them was more than an exchange for them, they are ignited!! Thank you KD!
Thank you for the opportunity and a/c. I look forward to working with them again.