By Anjali Nayak
“The creative process from start to finish is just so entrancing,” photographer Melissa Riedstra points out, “everything about it.”
On Monday, January 29, Westmont’s Photograph 2 class hosted their annual gallery. Students had the opportunity to pick from past pieces and put together an exhibit that best exemplifies their artistic flair.
Some photographers opted for themed exhibits—student Heather Tran chose to base her exhibit around “women doing the things they love.” The collage features female artists, scientists, athletes, and of course, Tran herself, aiming a camera directly at the audience.
“I mean that’s by far the best part about photography,” Savanah Aguilar mentions, “I get to really flex my creativity.” The art of photography proves that there are countless ways to see the world. Though many of the students’ pieces included seemingly mundane interactions—children playing, pedestrians bustling through the city, hikers overlooking a moment—capturing these moments inexplicably heightens them. Through specific angles, lighting, and editing, a story can be told. “It’s all about finding inspiration in the small things. Then you have to figure out how to make it your own,” discloses Eleanor Rodhouse.
Photography teachers Rachael Bradley and Stevie Salcido couldn’t have been more proud of the class. “The best part is just seeing the students’ reactions to their final product. When everything is on the wall and their name is right there,” Bradley explains, “that really is the best feeling.” Bradley looks to cultivate a community of open-minded photographers, all with the same goal of creating art that they are proud of, and all willing to help each other reach said goal. It certainly shows, upon arriving at the gallery, the photo students gawked at each other’s pieces, conversed over the creative process, and made time to crack jokes. “I love asking everyone for my opinion on pieces. Everyone is so helpful, I get to work with some incredible people,” Sienna Donato passionately exclaimed.
There was one general consensus with each photographer I spoke with—take the class if you can.