Visual Poetry: A Creative Guide for Making Engaging Digital Photographs

Introduction

I am a teacher and photographer who thrives on learning, listening, and taking pictures. And I think William Yeats said it best: “Education is not about filling a pail, it is about lighting a fire.” Over the years I’ve watched hundreds of students pass through the photography school where I teach. It’s thrilling to witness and to be a small part of many students’ life trajectory.

Fire

Some of them reach graduation and walk across the stage, excitedly shake the president’s hand, and place their diplomas in a pail. They blankly look around for direction and aren’t sure what to do next. Others graduate, celebrate, and everywhere they go is set ablaze. Their stamina, drive, vision, and passion are contagious, and they reach previously unattainable ...