Picture Perfect Day for 4-Hers at the Regional 4-H Workshop

The 4-H programs in Washington, Keokuk, Iowa and Johnson counties collaborated to offer an all-day Photography Workshop on Saturday, March 8 at the Washington County Extension Office. 46 youth in 4th-12th grade participated in an opportunity to extend their learning and develop their photography skills. Not only did youth have the opportunity to learn about photography, cameras, careers, and evaluation, but the day also provided the chance to meet 4-Hers from around Southeast Iowa.

Participants rotated through a series of interactive sessions, each focusing on different aspects of photography and exhibition. Participants learned about the different parts of a goal and how important it is to set goals to create a road map for their learning. They dove deeper into photography techniques with hands-on practice led by Iowa 4-H Arts, Communication, and Design Program Specialist Clark Colby. He guided attendees through camera and phone settings, action shots, focus techniques, and lighting adjustments. Tyler Baird, an Iowa 4-H Photography judge, covered composition rules, including subject placement, cropping, and the rule of thirds, helping young photographers refine their framing techniques.

Because career exploration is a staple of the 4-H program, the lunch hour featured a panel of individuals who use photography in their careers. These professionals shared their story of getting started, training they had, tips for photographers in the making and some of their own examples. It gave 4-H members a glimpse into various career paths where photography plays a role.

Washington County 4-H photography superintendents Jodi and Kathy Ebert led a hands-on session demonstrating how to mount their photographs using a heat press. Participants then practiced with a photo they brought.

Youth were introduced to a statewide photography opportunity, the Iowa 4-H Camera Corps. It is a group of young people that submit photos in relation to a new photography challenge each month. Their submitted photos are critiqued by professional photographers, giving them a great opportunity to practice their photography skills and receive professional feedback on how to continue to improve. Washington County 4-H also hosts a local club that means monthly to practice the Iowa Camera Corp challenges.

“The 4-Hers were engaged all day soaking in tons of information and excited to try,” said Amy Green, Washington County 4-H & Youth Coordinator. “ I think everyone left with some goals and new eye for capturing cool photographs.”

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach strives to provide research-based learning opportunities to all Iowans. 4-H is the youth outreach program for Extension and Outreach and is located in every county across Iowa. To become involved in opportunities like this, as a volunteer or as a youth participant, contact the Washington County Extension Office at 319-653-4811 or email washington4h@iastate.edu.