This project has been a favorite activity among mentors and students in our program. Each mentor/student pair is given one disposable camera to take pictures together in and around the community from the categories listed below. A local photographer visits the group to give pointers, using his own portfolio of photographs as examples. At the next group meeting, everyone shares their pictures and stories with each other.

• A place where you like to play or watch a sporting event
• A favorite view of nature
• Something that makes you feel proud of your community
• A favorite sign (could be that of a business, location, street sign, etc)
• A place where you feel solemn or serious, a place to reflect
• Interesting architecture
• A place where you like to hang out with your friends
• A place or object that you would like to learn more about
• A favorite place when you were younger
• Something you’ve noticed that’s changed in the city
• A picture that represents MELROSE to you

Photos from the project have been displayed at City Hall and other sites in the community, and notecards were made featuring the student’s favorite pictures. One student said “Now when I walk home from school, instead of keeping my head down, I look at the world around me.”

(Click on photo to see larger image.)