First day of class

Today was the first day of class. Eleven students showed up at the Oaxaca Learning Center eager to learn and practice photography. After a few minutes of discussion and logistics, we set out to take pictures right away. At first the students were shy with each other and didn't talk much. Many of these teenagers have never met before. They hesitated to take pictures and looked a little lost. However, after 30 minutes of photographing each other and random things, they became more comfortable and talkative.

We spent two and a half hours wandering around Oaxaca City taking photographs. Today was very unstructured-the time was for students to become comfortable with their cameras. It allowed them to be more confident in asking people for a shot. It was fun sitting back and observing these eleven young people go at it. Each personality differs and already I am so impressed by their sense of composition. Some are very shy and don't want to ask to take people's pictures. Others are very direct and walk right up to complete strangers requesting a photograph.

It seems we are going to need to meet downtown everyday in order to catch the light. By the time we ended up downtown, we were losing the sun. I suppose we are learning how to make this successful as we go.

This energetic group is going to be so much fun. They each have their own personality and special qualities about them. I am excited about what this month will hold. Tomorrow we are going to the Alvarez Bravo Photography Center. There is a black and white show there right now and it will be a great spot to discuss the elements of photography.