When deciding on a photography lesson, we were pleased to realize that students could learn not just about artworks and the art of looking closely, but also technology.
Although not currently on view at the museum, we were inspired by the work of Loretta Lux and Helen Levitt. Both female photographers' work includes portraits of children. The children in Lux's work are posed, with stoic expressions and the images are often digitally manipulated for color and background. Levitt's 1940's photographs are black and white and depict children at play, in costumes, dancing and generally having a good time!
Loretta Lux, Hidden Rooms I, 2001. Collection of the Akron Art Museum
Helen Levitt, New York, 1939. Collection of the Akron Art Museum
The students investigated reproductions of each photograph and responded to questions. Where were the children? What were they doing? Are they having fun? What about the children is interesting? And most importantly: What makes you think that? Looking closely at artworks is emphasized in Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS), developed by Philip Yenawine and Abigail Housen. VTS increase critical thinking and improve language skills through the simple question, "What's going on in this picture?".
After discussing the photographs, the students were presented with "Kid Tough" Fisher Price cameras. The digital cameras are very basic and designed specifically for children of preschool age. We went over the way the camera turns on, takes a picture and also where to look through the viewfinders. Next came the exciting part- it was finally time to let the children take pictures! We started by taking pictures inspired by Lux, with very serious faces and still poses. Next, we wanted to channel the enjoyment of the children in Levitt's New York photos, so the students created simple, paper masks to wear and took photographs of each other making silly faces with the masks. We also played some music from the 1940's and had students take photographs of each other while dancing and smiling.
Photo by preschool student.
The students enjoyed using the cameras- especially the funny noises they make. Each student looked closely at the artwork and also looked carefully to take pictures and make sure the picture was just right! We had hundreds of photographs to look through once the lesson was complete, and each one was as enjoyable as the next.
Students admiring their masks and practicing their looking skills.
What do you think about incorporating photography in the preschool classroom. Could it be used by students to document their progress in the classroom? What are other projects the students could participate in with the use of cameras?
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