The photographs of over 70 student photographers are currently on display at the Pacific Palisades Public Library as part of the 9th annual Palisades Charter High School Photography Show, running through the month of May during regular library hours. Students have helped curate the exhibit, which includes landscapes, portraiture, fashion, architecture, action shots, and abstract works of composition, color, and superimposition from sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
“This is the 9th year that I have been working with the library staff to exhibit the images created by the students attending Palisades Charter High School,” professional photographer and Pali High photography instructor Rick Steil told the Palisadian-Post.
“The library show gives Pali High the chance to showcase the diverse talents of the students that attend it. It also gives these students the chance to see their work in a public venue and be a part of an exhibition. It gives them great pride and helps them see the potential of their creative voices.”
The photos capture not just their subjects but the lives of the photographers as well, allowing community members to peek into the frames as if they were windows into the lives of the photographers.
For some students, the photos on display chart their travels and tell the story of how they came to be where they are today.
“This class has helped me develop as a photographer and as a person,” sophomore Lauren Davidi shared. “I love that my images are on display at the library because it makes me feel I have something to say and people will be able to see my perspective on life.”
In his classroom, Steil has worked to cultivate in his students a profound appreciation for the philosophical and artistic components of photography, urging them to explore their own lives through the lens.
For his students, Steil’s class is a refuge where one can learn not just about photography, but about themselves.
“I’ve learned so much about photography and Photoshop from this class that I will continue to use throughout life,” senior Bella Hooper added. “I‘ve always loved drawing and painting but through this class I found another creative outlet, photography.”
Many students will continue on from Steil’s class and bring their talents out into the wider world, where some hope to forge future careers in photography.
For students who are just beginning their photographic journeys to the snap-happy seniors who have found their calling, Steil has created an exhibit where students can share with their community the images they hold in their mind’s eye.
Steil also teaches an instructive 5-day photography summer camp at Pali High for aspiring shutterbugs.
The camp teaches students the basics of digital photography, including composition, shutter speed, aperture, ISO, Adobe Photoshop and inkjet printing.
The camp has three sessions: the week of June 17 – 21, July 15 – 19 and July 29 – August 2. Limited space is available. To sign up, email: rsteil@palihigh.org or call (310) 428 -1160
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