Picture This!

Family photos capture precious memories. Photos can mark times along life’s journeys, both big and small. Consider taking sequential photos of haircuts, room changes, seasons; these can be used to teach processes to youngsters. Even the same event or place looks different to each family member, so try to let everyone have a shot at photography. Of course, with digital photography, it’s easier to take and share photos. Enjoy!

CONNECT:

* This rich website explains key camera terms, links to tutorials, and suggest fun activities to do with digital cameras: http://www.teachersmousepad.com/Digital%20Camera%20Fun/Digital%20Camera%20Fun.htm

* Because photographs can be easily digitized, several photography museums can be visited virtually. Take a look at some of these: http://www.icp.org/research-center/library/professional-links/photography-museums

* Picture the last century in photos: http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/picturing_the_century/index.html

* Photography has been around almost two hundred years, and it’s changed much in that time period, as you can see at http://teachertube.com/viewVideo.php?video_id=272302  

* Digital photography can be easily edited, including a false impression. However, photo trickery has been around for over a century. Explore photo fiction at http://www.photographymuseum.com/phofictions1.html

CREATE:

* This site provides you basics about choosing a digital camera: http://www.apte.com/tools/photography/index.cfm  

* Like oatmeal? Even if you don’t, you can turn an oatmeal box into a pinhole camera: http://users.rcn.com/stewoody/

* How much light do you need to take photographs? This website shows how you can create the materials do night photography: http://library.thinkquest.org/5135/photography.htm

* This video shows you tips for taking good photos: http://teachertube.com/viewVideo.php?video_id=89672  

* You can create a video from photos. See you at http://teachertube.com/viewVideo.php?video_id=145185

CARE:

* National Geographic Society has a photo gallery for kids: http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/kids/photos/gallery/. The Society also sponsors international children’s photo contests

* Photography has helped people become more famous, especially as copies can be distributed widely and quickly. But there is a cost to fame by photography, such as privacy. See how photography has impacted fame at http://www.moma.org/exhibitions/1999/fameafterphotography/ 

* This site gives you tips on sharing your pictures safely: http://artsedge.kennedy-center.org/educators/how-to/tipsheets/going-public.aspx

* Read this online article, which discusses a workshop that taught youth how to use documentary photo methods for civic engagement. You can get involved too! http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/youth_and_adults_learn_how_to_use_photography_as_a_tool_for_civic_engagemen

CAREER:

* Here are some sources of information about becoming a photographer:

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/photographers.htm

http://www.theartcareerproject.com/shoot-for-the-sky-learn-about-a-career-in-photography/90/

* Know that many careers incorporate photos: science, business, art, entertainment, engineering, fashion, politics. So whether you’re in front or the camera or behind it, picture your future.

PARENTS:

* As you might imagine, many photo websites have images that are targeted to adults rather than youth, so it’s wise to check out websites before starting family activities.

* In addition, sharing photos can be problematic since, sadly, some people check out photos to see when families go on vacation or buy expensive things. Some people even stalk individuals, so share carefully and make sure that you can stipulate who sees your photos.