At Photo Start, we believe in the transformative power of photography. From April 29th to May 10th, we held our Photo Challenge, inviting aspiring young photographers worldwide to embark on a journey of visual storytelling. We were overwhelmed by the quality and creativity showcased in the entries, making the selection process incredibly challenging.
In the student category, Maryevelyne Achieng, a 22-year-old from Nairobi, Kenya, truly captured our hearts with her submission. Though she’s only been exploring photography for a mere three months, Maryevelyne’s passion and talent shone brightly through her image.
A Spark Ignited
Maryevelyne credits the Photo Start program for igniting her passion for photography. “The program has broadened my perspective and helped me see things in new ways,” she shares. It is amazing how picking up a camera can completely transform the way you experience the world. This newfound perspective is evident in Maryevelyne’s winning photo, which focuses on a universal emotion: happiness.
A Story Told Through a Single Frame
“I chose to focus on the emotion of happiness,” Maryevelyne explains, “because the boy in my photo was happy despite everything he is going through, which also captures innocence.” This ability to capture a powerful emotion within a single frame is a true mark of a talented photographer.
Empowering the Next Generation
Maryevelyne’s dedication and evident talent earned her a well-deserved spot in a masterclass with renowned photographer – Jake Ahles. Jake described the session: “The masterclass was a great experience for reviewing some of the fundamentals of photography. It was rewarding to share knowledge and hopefully inspire the next generation of image makers.”
During the masterclass, Jake guided Maryevelyne through various fundamental aspects of photography, including:
- Post-Production Techniques: Jake explored various editing techniques with Maryevelyne, such as exposure adjustments, color correction, and masking, to help her elevate her final images.
- The Art of Composition: They delved into key compositional principles like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing, empowering Maryevelyne to create visually compelling photographs.
- Understanding Light: Jake discussed different types of lighting, the direction of light, and how to use natural and artificial light to set the mood and highlight the subject in her photos.
- Planning a Photoshoot: From brainstorming concepts to creating detailed shot lists, Jake outlined the steps for Maryevelyne to plan a successful photoshoot.
- The Power of Emotion: Jake emphasized the importance of capturing emotions in photography – a tool that allows photographers to create powerful images that connect with viewers on a deeper level.
Sharing the Gift of Knowledge
Jake, like many professional photographers, believes in the importance of giving back to the community. He shared his thoughts on mentoring: “It is crucial to foster the next generation of image-makers. By sharing our knowledge, we empower creative expression and make creativity accessible to all, ensuring the continuous evolution and enrichment of the photography community.”
A World of Potential Awaits
Jake left Maryevelyne and all aspiring photographers out there with this inspiring advice: “Get out and make photos! The best way to grow as a photographer is through hands-on experience and practice. Don’t be afraid to experiment, learn from your mistakes, and continually push your creative boundaries.”
A Final Word
We’re incredibly proud of Maryevelyne and all the participants in the Photo Challenge. Their talent and dedication are inspiring. Stories like Maryevelyne’s are a testament to the impact our programs can have. We equip young people with the tools and knowledge they need to not only express themselves creatively but also potentially build a brighter future. Maryevelyne aspires to use the knowledge she acquires in photography to market her business – a dream that Photo Start is proud to support.
We can’t wait to witness Maryevelyne’s journey unfold as she turns her passion for photography into a path of endless possibilities. Her story, and the stories of all our participants, are a reminder that with the right support, young people can achieve remarkable things.
Join us in empowering the next generation of photographers!
Visit our website to learn more about our programs and how you can get involved. Donate, volunteer your time, or simply spread the word – every contribution helps us provide under-resourced youth with the tools they need to thrive.
