CANELA ART STUDIO

Children are invited to explore photography not just as a modern art form, but as a journey through light, science, and storytelling. This immersive camp experience empowers young artists to discover how images are made—from the earliest techniques to today’s digital tools—while encouraging them to see the world with fresh eyes.

The week begins with a hands-on introduction to early photography techniques, where children create and experiment with their own pinhole cameras. Using simple materials and the power of light, they capture images the old-fashioned way—without lenses or screens—learning how exposure and time shape a photograph.

Next, they discover the magic of cyanotype printing, one of the first photographic processes. By arranging natural objects like leaves, feathers, or personal treasures on light-sensitive paper and exposing them to the sun, campers create striking blue-and-white "sun prints." This process blends science and creativity in a way that’s both tactile and visually rewarding.

After exploring the roots of photography, the program shifts into the digital realm. Guided by a team of three professional photographers, children dive into the fundamentals of modern photography, including:

• Composition – framing, balance, the rule of thirds, and visual storytelling

• Lighting – working with natural and artificial light to create mood and clarity

• Focus and Exposure – learning how to control what’s sharp and bright

• Perspective and Timing – capturing the right moment from a unique angle

Daily photo walks and themed creative challenges help children apply these techniques while discovering their individual photographic voice.

As the week progresses, they are introduced to culling—the thoughtful process of selecting their strongest images—and the basics of photo editing, using beginner-friendly tools to enhance light, contrast, and cropping, all while staying true to their original vision.

The experience culminates in a joyful Photo Exhibition, curated entirely by the children. Each participant selects, titles, and prints their favorite works—whether captured through pinhole, cyanotype, or digital photography—and helps present them in a gallery-style show for families and friends.