How To Take Better Photos During Your Peace Corps Service

When you're serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer, your photos tell a story about your experiences and the community you're part of. They are a powerful way to share with family, friends, and even future employers. But how do you take good photos? The answer is to be more intentional about your photography.

What Does Intentional Photography Mean?

Intentional photography is about putting thought into each photo you take. It’s not just snapping a picture because something looks interesting. It’s about making choices—what to capture, how to frame it, and why you’re taking the shot in the first place. You are changing it from a passive act to an active one.

Why Intentional Photography Matters

When you’re documenting your Peace Corps service, intentional photography helps:

• Tell a Story: Instead of a collection of random moments, your photos become part of a cohesive narrative.

• Highlight Meaning: Your images can focus on themes like daily life in your host community, cultural traditions, or the impact of your projects.

• Create Connection: Thoughtful photos resonate more with viewers, inviting them to engage with your experiences on a deeper level.

How to Be an Intentional Photographer

Here are some practical tips for bringing intentionality to your photography during service:

1. Define Your Purpose: Think about what you want to capture. Are you at a festival? Showing local crafts? Telling the story of a project? Knowing what your goal is will guide your shots.

2. Pay Attention to Composition: Think about how you arrange everything in the frame. Look for leading lines, symmetry, or natural frames like doorways or windows. Avoid cluttered backgrounds that distract from your subject.

3. Use Light to Your Advantage: Early morning and late afternoon light (the "golden hours") are soft and flattering. For indoor shots, look for natural light sources like windows.

4. Take Your Time: Slow down and observe before taking a photo. Notice details others might miss. Sometimes, waiting a moment can lead to capturing something extraordinary.

5. Be Respectful: Always ask permission before photographing people, especially during cultural or religious events. Respect their wishes if they decline.

Practicing Intentional Photography During Service

Here are a few exercises to build your skills:

• Focus on One Subject: Spend a week photographing a single subject, like local transportation or community gatherings.

• Review and Reflect: After a photo session, look at your shots. What worked? What didn’t? Use these insights to improve.

With a little extra thought and care, your photos can become more than just snapshots. They’ll reflect on your Peace Corps experiences and the rich stories of your host community. So grab your camera or smartphone, slow down, and start shooting with intention!

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Reference: The Secret to Being a Memorable Photographer

The content of this website is mine alone and does not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Government or the Peace Corps.