2026 CCFY - Light in My Lens: Exploring the World Through Photography

In a world where images are everywhere, learning how to create them with intention is a powerful skill. This class helps students move beyond simply taking pictures to understanding how images communicate meaning, emotion, and story. They begin to recognize that their perspective matters — and that the way they see the world is worth sharing. By the end of the series, students don’t just walk away with photographs. They walk away with a new way of seeing.

No prior photography experience is required. The class is designed to meet students where they are and help them grow from there.

PROGRAM FOR AGES

11-18

DATES/ TIMES: 

• Mon, Nov 23, 2026 | 1PM -3PM

• Tue, Nov 24, 2026 | 1PM -3PM

• Wed, Nov 25, 2026 | 1PM -3PM

TEACHING ARTIST

Chanda M. Scott

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Students are required to attend all classes in the series.

• Students will be asked to provide daily check ins/evaluations.

• Light snacks will be provided.

• Supplies will be provided.

WHAT TO BRING

• Students will need to bring a packed lunch each day to the program (Required).

• A smartphone or camera capable of taking photos

• A charger (recommended)

• 2–3 small personal objects for storytelling exercises

• Curiosity and willingness to explore

Students are also invited (but not required), to bring the following items to the program:

• Composition notebook (for writing and notes)

• Writing utensils (pencils or pens)

**After Registering Parents/Guardians will be contacted via email in order to complete required paperwork and receive important updates.

ABOUT THE CLASSES / WORKSHOPS

Light in My Lens: Exploring the World Through Photography is an interactive photography class series designed to help students see the world differently, think more deeply, and express themselves visually with confidence. This course invites students into a creative space where curiosity is encouraged, observation is sharpened, and everyday moments become meaningful stories. Through hands-on activities, collaborative challenges, and guided reflection, students learn how light, perspective, and intention transform simple images into powerful visual narratives.

Rather than focusing only on technical skills, this series treats photography as a tool for awareness, storytelling, and personal growth. Students begin by learning how to observe light — how it falls, how it shapes mood, and how it influences emotion. They quickly discover that light is not just something that illuminates a subject; it communicates feeling, tone, and meaning. From there, they explore composition, framing, and perspective, practicing how to intentionally direct a viewer’s attention and create images that feel purposeful rather than accidental.

Throughout the series, students engage in creative challenges that strengthen both their artistic and analytical skills. Activities include photographing one subject in multiple ways to understand light direction, creating visual stories from everyday objects, capturing portraits that express personality, and documenting spaces that hold emotional significance. Each exercise is designed to build confidence while helping students develop a personal visual style.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES

Students will produce-

• A collection of practice images demonstrating lighting techniques

• A short visual storytelling sequence

• A written reflection or artist statement

• A curated “Hero Shot” photograph

• A mounted 8×10 final print ready for display or gifting

  
  

These tangible outcomes allow students to see their progress and celebrate their growth as visual storytellers.

SKILL DEVELOPMENT

Students will -

• Understand how light direction, quality, and intensity affect mood and meaning

• Develop foundational composition skills

• Gain confidence using photography as a form of self-expression

• Strengthen observation and critical thinking abilities

• Learn to communicate ideas visually

• Practice constructive feedback and collaboration

• Build pride in their creative voice

Beyond photography, students leave with improved self-awareness, stronger communication skills, and a deeper appreciation for the stories happening around them every day.

ABOUT THE TEACHING ARTIST

Chanda Scott

Chanda Scott is a photographer, visual storyteller, and educator based in Georgia and the founder of CMS Photography, a creative studio devoted to capturing authentic moments that reflect the heart of individuals, families, and communities. Known for her warm, documentary-inspired approach, Chanda’s work centers on preserving genuine emotion, meaningful connections, and everyday stories that often go unnoticed but hold lasting significance.

Her passion for photography began in childhood, inspired by a family member who lovingly documented life’s milestones and quiet in-between moments. Those early images became treasured time capsules, shaping Chanda’s belief that photographs are more than pictures — they are vessels of memory, identity, and legacy. Today, that philosophy guides every session, project, and program she creates.

Chanda studied photography at Southern New Hampshire University, where she strengthened her technical skills while deepening her understanding of visual storytelling as both an art form and a communication tool. She combines that formal training with years of hands-on professional experience documenting portraits, events, and community narratives.

Through CMS Photography, Chanda specializes in portraiture, event documentation, and community-centered storytelling initiatives. She is especially passionate about educational programming and has designed and led photography workshops that empower youth and adults to use the camera as a voice. Her teaching emphasizes self-expression, confidence, and visual literacy, helping students understand how light, perspective, and story work together to communicate meaning.

Chanda is also the creator and facilitator of a Photovoice exhibit initiative, a community-based photography program that encourages participants to document their lived experiences and share their perspectives through images. These exhibits amplify personal stories, strengthen community connection, and give individuals a platform to express their realities through visual storytelling.

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION

This program is eligable for Scholarship.

The Southeast Community Cultural Center d/b/a ArtsXchange is pleased to offer partial and full scholarships for our youth programs and summer camps. One application for one student. If you are applying for multiple youth please submit separate forms for each youth. 

Additionally, scholarships are ineligible for classes/camps/workshops that have already been paid for. 

Apply today by completing the application form.

REGISTRATION

Guardians please note you can only sign up 1 student at a time. For those signing up for multiple students you will need to complete a separate registration/payment for each student.

**After Registering Parents/Guardians will be contacted via email in order to complete required paperwork and receive important updates.