A Brand New Batch of Photographers

3 October 2020Sophie B, Mackenzie ‘22

Photography is a much loved art class at Brentwood. Our teacher, Mr Fletcher, is an amazing instructor with extensive knowledge about the art. There are many different kinds of photography, but the two main kinds at Brentwood are digital and traditional film. Film photography is a course that all beginners go into. There is beginner and advanced film photography. Abby S, Mack ‘21, who is in advanced photography, says “I have been in photography for three years now and I really enjoy the course. I have a great time enjoying the campus and seeing it in a new, creative way.”

I am one of the new photographers and I am loving it so far. During the first couple of classes we went through the basics on how to work the cameras. With the help of the advanced students, we beginners have got a handle on it and have started shooting. Our first assignment is to complete a list of items by taking creative and unique photos of the things on campus. There are so many ways to capture the views.

After using all the film in your camera, you go onto the next step which is developing. My classmates and I are very excited to see how our photos turn out. Unlike a phone or digital camera, you have to wait and be patient with the process. It takes about a week to develop the photos to completion. The first round of photos will be trial and error as it is our first time in the dark room.

We have almost an hour to get some good photos each block before we have to sign out. The way Mr Fletcher keeps track of us is by getting our contact info in case of emergency or if someone doesn’t come to sign out. Almost all the beginners rent cameras from Mr Fletcher. It is $100 dollars to rent for a full year, which is a very good deal considering the price to buy a camera. Film photography is extremely interesting because it gets you thinking and makes you take time getting the perfect shot. The other rule of shooting is you have to go with a buddy. It is important to stay with someone in case you have any questions or you get injured.

The other day my friend Kaliana and I went to the rowing docks to get some good action shots. The thing is when you go to get a photo of one thing you stay for all the other beautiful options as well. Kaliana got a great shot of a starfish in the water. It is interesting to see where everybody goes and what ideas they come up with. If you are with someone or in a group, you can get inspiration.

I asked Kaliana about how she is liking it and she said she was loving the class because “It is something I have never done before and it’s amazing how you can express your creative side.” I totally agree with her. Photography is an art that most of us have never tried and it’s a lot more interesting when you learn about the camera parts and how it all works together to form an amazing machine that can capture any moment.

Sophie B, Mackenzie ‘22

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