B8 Dads - Photography Project
In the lead up to Father’s day, Washwood Heath Children’s Centre worked with local dads on a family photography project. The project name - ‘B8 Dad’s’ was agreed by the group themselves. Working with an experienced photographer, the group of dads furthered their skills in digital photography along with their children.
Project objectives
The project was planned to further increase community engagement and trust with the children’s centre using ICT. An additional aim was to create an interest and commitment from fathers already involved with the centre, as well as attracting new fathers.
Dad’s involved in the project were responsible for key decisions such as naming the project, deciding on locations and activities. Working with experienced photographer and film-maker James Reader, sessions included photography techniques, from operating and composing images to lighting, camera tricks and portrait photography.
The group conducted their workshops in and around Washwood Heath, this included visiting their local high street and parks as well as taking photos of their children and local landscapes. They also extended their learning to video, animation and the creative use of ICT.
The parents were comfortable using photography as it allowed them to learn new skills quickly along with their children. Outcomes were immediate as they could all share their images as they were taken.
Who was involved?
The dads worked with James Reader an experienced film-maker and photographer and Washwood Heath Children's Centre staff.
Impact
The dads became self-motivated, mainly due to the photographs they were producing, along with the desire to keep improving.
As the sessions continued, their confidence grew and they became more proficient in the work they were able to accomplish.
There was also a marked improvement in the language skills of some of the children – many of whom were able to articulate their ideas through the images they had produced.
Centre Staff also felt that the new learning impacted positively on professional development too. Those who were ICT proficient developed further, while those members of staff who were less familiar with the equipment learnt new skills.
At the end of the project the ‘B8 Dads’ curated a photography exhibition at their local library in Birmingham.
Results
Sarah Jenkinson-Evans, Bright Space Creative Agent said: "This project has been a great way of building a stronger relationship with local dads. Attending the photography workshops has increased their interest in the local area as well as enabling them to increase their own skills. It’s been great to see the dads working closely with their children and learning from each other. I believe we’ve now got some skilled amateur photographers in the group. Seeing their work displayed within the library will be a real measure of their commitment and enthusiasm throughout the project."
Washwood Heath Park
