4/3 Digital Photography- Connections to Children

1.    Digital photography is immediate.  Children can quickly see results without being discouraged by technical challenges.  Many digital cameras do the mechanical decision-making for you, and post processing with filters helps give basic autonomy after the image is taken.  This is similar to limiting the materials a child has access to in order to focus their exploration effectively; in a way, digital photography reduces options by taking away technicalities and allowing children to focus just on the picture.  Children can also take the learning process into their own hands and explore more at home, outside of the classroom.         

2.    Digital photography is empowering.  It is easy to understand, and this boosts the confidence of young artists.  Ease also motivates exploration and risk taking (with the help and guidance of a great teacher).  Digital photography can take many forms; it can be abstract, or documentary, or introspective.  This appeals to different types of learners with different interests.  Children can learn about activist photography and photojournalism, and use their work to make sense of current events. 

 

3.    Digital photography speaks a universally modern language.  We are bombarded with photographs on social media, and society has a heavy emphasis on image as communication (for example, the popular use of Snapchat and instant image messaging).  In this way, taking pictures may be the most comfortable art form for many students, serving as a gateway into creative work.  Photography is also a language all its own, understood by students of all backgrounds.  The implications of being able to connect around the world through digital photography are exciting.