Photomatic

You know that feeling when you find yourself in a moment that feels like it should be filmed and fun movie-soundtrack music plays in your head? That happens to everyone, right?
Well, last week we had a bit of a celebration with the My Island – My Community folks. It was the official launch of the initiative and we heard from some pretty wonderful speakers including our own Dr. Singhal. We saw some dances from a troupe I will write more about later. But for now, this photo.

I, of course, immediately started hanging out with the children. I think this little girl was about 5 or 6 and she said her dad played in the band. I started to show her how to use my D40, it is one heck of a great camera, and she started to snap photos. She took it out of my hands and started to spin and take photos. I actually let go of the camera… ok, ok, I held on to the strap, but she was holding it all by herself! It takes quite a bit for me to let go like that.

But I did let go. And She just started spinning and clicking. I am not trying to give a plug for the D40 (it’s so easy, a 6 year old can use it!) but I did love that she could work it with such ease.

Here is one of her photos:

She had a yellow balloon sword. I am not sure that I will ever see her again, but I love the concept of giving kids the tools and they will create art. All I did was put the camera in her hands. The rest of the night, she would find me and wrap her arms around my legs in a giant hug with a huge smile on her face.

It’s that Born into Brothels concept – just give a kid a camera. See what happens. Maybe they will be like 11 year old Lillian in Newport, Ark. who sold two paintings at the Art Show this year. Or maybe they are a budding Annie or Ansel like this St. Lucian. She has vision.

Dear World:
Give every kid a paintbrush, crayon, clay, a camera… when they are little. See what happens.
Love,
Sarah