JimG1 Loc: Waxahachie, TX

It has been years since I went to the State Fair of Texas and my grandson had never been. I checked handicapped access and found that I could rent an electric scooter and that solved my limited mobility problem. I thought this would be a great opportunity to do some street photography and get some pictures of my 8 yo grandson enjoying his first trip to the Fair.

I decided due the crowds and potential for damage or theft; not to take my Canon 5D but instead; to take my old 70D with the nifty fifty lens. After all if the camera got damaged no big loss, as I had already considered gifting it. Before we loaded up and headed out I showed my grandson how to take a picture with it. He's always asking his Mom if he can take pictures with her phone so he's shown some interest in photography. HE FELL IN LOVE WITH IT. I got to take a grand total of 6 pictures, 3 of him and his Mom and 3 more while he was in the bathroom.

It was amazing at how he took to the camera. He didn't want any part of shooting with Live View on. He used the view finder all the time. Without any instruction he kept both elbows in tight and formed a steady base. He picked different angles to shoot from .. it was amazing. I set the camera to aperture priority and occasionally tweaked ISO for some of the conditions otherwise I just let him shoot.

I can't begin to describe the Joy it gave me watching him discover photography. I don't have any complaints about not getting to shoot.

We got home to late to download the photos and begin culling and editing, we'll do that together after school today. I figure I can begin to point out some things about composition then. Any suggestions on how to teach/introduce him to the exposure triangle or other photography concepts would be greatly appreciated.

UTMike Loc: South Jordan, UT

Congratulations for taking the time to introduce him to a possible lifetime of joy!

Mustanger Loc: Grants Pass, Oregon USA

You deserve a Medal for your kindness & generosity & helping your grandson begin a new possible life interest in photography! It is a thrill to help someone like that isn't it!!

JimG1 Loc: Waxahachie, TX

Thanks Mike

JimG1 Loc: Waxahachie, TX

Thanks Mustanger it was indeed a thrill

Vector

Awesome!

PhotogHobbyist Loc: Bradford, PA

I would suggest you play it by ear, so to speak. As you and he are discussing composition there may be opportunity to mention something about the lighting and over- or underexposure. If he is really interested there will be numerous opportunities to bring up various aspects of photography from composition to camera settings to get the exposure and results desired. Take it slow and answer questions as he seeks more information.

Jimmy T Loc: Virginia

~ WOW!!!~

Wasabi

A. T.

That is so cool. I wish I had started my photography journey at a young age. You are Blessed to be able to share your passion and possibly stir a passion for your love in your grandson. Again, what an incredible Blessing.

LeeinNC Loc: Morganton, NC

A heartwarming story, thanks for sharing special stories!

Retired CPO Loc: Travel full time in an RV

First off...Don't Criticize!!! I did that with my son, and it didn't come off very well at all! He is just now, after twenty five years, finally showing an interest again. When he asks me a specific question about a specific technique, I answer that specific question and then Shut Up! I do praise the good points of all of his photos and hope he will ask questions about the stuff that I perceive as needing work. I gave him an almost new D7100 with a couple dx lenses when I decided to go full frame. He is doing really well with it.

JimG1 Loc: Waxahachie, TX

Excellent advice and I'll try to keep it in mind!

JimG1 Loc: Waxahachie, TX

Thanks for the advice that's how I plan to handle it.

JimG1 Loc: Waxahachie, TX

Seems like sound advice and I'll try to keep that in mind and not push.