The Florida Scholastic Press Association field trip to the University of South Florida was more than just a day out of class, it was an inspiring opportunity for students to grow their skills and connect with professionals in the world of journalism and photography. One yearbook student, Keagan Hedger, described the trip as “an eye-opening experience that completely changed the way I look at photography.”
Throughout the day, students attended three hands-on teaching sessions led by FSPA instructors and professional photographers. Throughout the sessions, Keagan learned the fundamentals of composition: how to use light, angles, and balance to tell a story through a single frame. “I realized that every photo has meaning,” he said. “It’s not just about getting a clear shot, it’s about showing emotion and purpose.” Other sessions focused on photojournalism and storytelling. Students practiced capturing moments that reflect emotion and movement, learning how to time their shots perfectly. “We had to think fast and anticipate the action,” Keagan shared. “It taught me to be more observant and ready for the perfect moment.” During the third session, Keagan went to an instructor centered on editing and refining photos to make them publication-ready. Students experimented with cropping, exposure, and color adjustments to make their images stand out while maintaining authenticity. “It was cool seeing how small changes could make a big difference,” he said.
