I hope you all had a fabulous weekend and are very eager to punch the clock. Having traveled to Houston and Orlando, I now find myself back in Cape Hatteras, NC. If you have ever visited, you know just how mystical and beautiful the Outer Banks are.
The photograph I have attached today will most likely not make it to my “top ten best ever” but it might just be one of the most enjoyable and important photos I have had the pleasure to be part of in quite sometime. I had the honor to accompany a select group of 5th Graders from Cape Hatteras Elementary School on a photographic field trip to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. At the beginning I talked with them about my profession and gave them some photographic pointers and ideas. I then provided an assignment for photographing the lighthouse and was able to mentor them during their photography outing. On the following day I went in to the classroom to view their images. As you might imagine, I marveled at the variety of captures of the lighthouse.
How amazing it is to gaze into their eyes and see the “ light bulb” come on. To see how eager they are for life and their thirst for new experiences. Some of these children may never venture far from the islands but it is gratifying to think, that in some small way, you might just have effected and give direction to a new course of thought and dreams to one or more of them. What a wonderful burden to be part of.
My reward for all of this.. Many thanks from the 5th graders and one very special hug from a little lady as she departed the class.
You know … giving back and inspiring the youth of today is such a rewarding and worthwhile venture. I had a college photography professor who gave me inspiration and direction and I would not be who I am today without his keen insight, mentoring and friendship. I think of him often but not a much as when I sit in a classroom of children and thank god for the wonderful gift I have been given as a photographer.
To that end, I present you the 5th Graders of Cape Hatteras Elementary and the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
Have a great week!
~ dK ~
