What does a caveman have to do with a photography contest?
That’s easy. Humans are storytellers; it’s in our nature. Century upon century, we hand stories down, with each generation building on the last.
What does ancient storytelling have to do with a photography contest?
Also, easy. Eventually, humans started scratching stories into cave walls, especially the parts they thought were the most important to remember. Century upon century, these scratches helped our ancestors evolve. Pictures became part of the storytelling process. Archaeologists and historians have looked back at these found bits of pre-historic life and pieced together stories of how people lived, hunted, and thought about the world.
What does all that have to do with a photography contest?
When you choose to press the button to record a moment, no matter who you are, there’s a reason. The light was just right, you wanted to remember a special moment, or perhaps your puppy was extra cute. These are all stories behind the photos you take. We now take pictures by the dozens, with little thought about why. But for this contest, we challenge you.
We hope that everyone feels like they can enter the “What’s your story? Contest,” but we especially want to encourage kids. Photography is a great creative outlet for kids, and talking and writing about their pictures can do all kinds of educational things for them, I’m sure.
Since we wanted to involve kids, we decided to spend some time at the Boys and Girls Club talking to a few of their resident photographers. These kids are in charge of taking photos on field trips and at events. They are the storytellers for that organization.
Rae Nakanishi
Age 12
Rae explains that she takes pictures of things she wants to remember. She gives some examples which include beautiful places and cute puppies! She is an artist as well and often will sketch from photos she takes. You can see one of Rae’s stunning pictures on the opposite page.Â
Her advice to other young photographers and artists: “Keep your eyes open!”
Rocky Benjamin
Age 12
Rocky started taking photos when he was five or six. He remembers finding an old camera and asking his mom if he could use it. Along with some other members of the Boys and Girls Club here in Eagle River, Rocky helps to make sure that the group’s stories are documented and shared by taking photos on their various outings. But, landscapes are his favorite. He is most proud of a photo he took on a trip to Fairbanks.
His advice to young photographers: “Look for the beauty in it.”
Sarah Chaput
Age 10
Sarah distinctly remembers the first photos she took, she was five years old, and they were of her mother on a carousel. She likes the detail and perspective she can capture with her camera. Sarah tells us the story of a bumble-bee caterpillar that she found. Because she took a photo, she was able to do more research and determine that it was poisonous! She would like to be a marine biologist someday. For now, she will continue to take photos to share with friends and family.Â
Her advice to young photographers: “Every picture tells a story.”
Want to see your photo on the May issue of ECHO Magazine?
We are holding a photography contest until March 31, 2020 that is free to enter and anyone can join! Read the rules and enter here
