Why I Document Student Innovation

Written by Lucille, Student Innovator & Media Intern

When I am taking photos for the Collaborative Center of Social Innovation, I never forget their core values because they are always being displayed all around me. I see people actively learning and brainstorming ideas to help their community, interacting with their peers and teachers, building meaningful and long-lasting connections. I'm drawn to this program because there are endless opportunities to take impactful photographs that accurately represent the participants. When I'm accompanying the groups on their field trips I'm mainly focused on capturing moments of connection, whether that be the kids understanding the lessons, or their connections with each other.

I tend to stay away from the teaching when photographing a session, as to not distract the students, but also, to take a step back and observe the way that the students socialize among themselves. I pay attention to their conversations, recognize who gets along well and who contributes during lessons. I feel that my closeness in age to the students gives me an advantage as well, as I'm familiar with what they like and can more accurately represent them in a way that they will agree with.

Visual storytelling is so important because without it, moments like these get lost. The Collaborative Center is all about showing people kindness, and I think that message is so much stronger when it is visible that the members within are kind to each other. When people see my photos I hope they feel the connections the students are building, and that they understand that this program not only offers you incredible opportunities to help others, it also offers you opportunities to meet new people and create beneficial relationships.