Today, I was excited to participate in a Career Day at a local middle school, Samuel Ogle Middle School in Bowie, Maryland. Made up of 6th through 8th graders, I wasn’t sure what to expect. When I stood up to present, would the kids all give me blank stares? Would they ask me ridiculous questions? Do they give a crap about photography? Would they give me the silent treatment and not ask anything at all?

First, I had to follow up the career day presentation of NBC News4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell. Marvelous.

Then, it was my turn to present to a room of 7th graders.

All my fears vanished as I set up my easels to show some of my photos. I could hear the kids whispering that I must be some sort of artist, because, with easels, I must be a painter, right?

I took out my camera and heard a collective, “Whoa!” because the kids thought it was huge. They all wanted to hold it to feel how heavy it was, and I explained that I work out to prepare myself for long shoots, for squatting and running around.

It was kind of great that they figured I was an artist, because I explained that I am an artist, and what I do requires a lot of artistry, just not in the traditional sense like a painter or a sculptor. Instead, we paint with light and have to be so creative with photography, that when done well, is indeed an art. The kids asked me questions about smiling, locations, shutter speed–yes, they knew about shutter speed!–focal points…the whole nine yards. I was amazed!

I told them about my journalism degree from the University of Maryland, because, at heart, I’m a storyteller. I told them about how I have to coach people to look good, to keep their energy up, and that I tell them what to wear to a shoot. I talked to them about how my camera is just one piece of equipment that I bring to a shoot, that I bring lighting, props, backdrops, and that I take extra photos to teach to other photographers. They admitted that they had no idea so much was involved.

I was so nervous at first, but now, I can’t wait to do it again! Thank you to mom Jasmine Smith for the opportunity! Until next time,

Insana

Today’s Real Wedding features Deanne and Mike, who jumped the broom in March 2013 in front of 250 guests at a lavish ceremony inside Evangel Cathedral in Bowie, MD. You may have seen their lovely engagement photo shoot here. Check out Deanne’s dress, from Mary’s Bridal Boutique in Annapolis. Deanne’s 8 hostesses wore persimmon cocktail dresses while her 9 bridesmaids wore fuschia gowns and identical hair buns. Their wedding reception at the nearby Camelot reception hall featured a photo booth, food from Martin’s at Camelot, a cake from Mimi’s Mocha Treats, and a lively DJ who featured American and West Indian music, showcasing Deanne and Mike’s family roots. Afterward, Mike swept Deanne off to a sunny honeymoon in Jamaica.