At the beginning of my senior year, I didn’t know much about using a camera. I felt that I didn’t know what I was doing every time I looked at all the buttons and settings, unsure of how to capture the images I envisioned. My early attempts were okay, but I wasn’t entirely proud of my work. I was just getting by, relying on basic settings and hoping for the best. Photography felt like something I could improve on, but I wasn’t sure where to start.

As the months passed, I began to take small steps to understand my camera better. I experimented with manual settings, talked with friends, watched videos and felt stuck. Slowly but surely, I started to see improvements in my photos. I learned how to adjust the lighting, find my themes, frame my shots, and capture moments with intention. This growth gave me a sense of accomplishment, and I started feeling more confident about the work I was producing.

Now, halfway through the year, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. Using a camera feels more natural now, and I’ve gained the confidence to explore creative ideas without second-guessing myself. I’m no longer just “okay” with my work—I’m happy with it and am glad to share it and continue improving. This semester has taught me that growth takes time and effort, but the results are worth it.

Big thanks to Mr. Miller and letting us borrow his equipment too. I appreciate everything -TCB