For the last ten years, I have been blessed to call Fresno Christian my home. As senior year comes to an end, when I think about the “lasts” I remember the “firsts.” This last year at FC I decided to join The Feather under the direction Kori James, who was also my childhood photographer. I wanted the class to be a part of my schedule so I could get better at taking photos and to try something new. If I’m being honest, I was told by people not to do the class; I think because they assumed I wouldn’t take it seriously, which obviously made me want to do it more.
After joining the team, my love for photography grew. I went in knowing how to use a camera on an auto setting and not much else. I started an Instagram account called @silvashots not long before I started the class and it has grown so much. Being on the team means I am able to use gear for both personal and school use. The Feather also gave me the chance to shoot events I normally wouldn’t choose to be at on my own time.
Mrs. James ran the class like a job, which I believe is a good life lesson. It prepared me for the future and exemplified working with people with different views. The Feather challenged me to accept feedback yet defend myself when needed, listen to others and ask myself what I myself could work on. It also trained me to be more on time.
I took photos and wrote about lots this year whether it was sports, the outdoors, chapel and more. I got the opportunity to weave in my interests and what I support, like rodeo life or my boyfriend in baseball. Through The Feather I learned to take pictures of people I didn’t know well and how to make it feel comfortable.
The Feather has personally made me a better photographer and my biggest takeaway is the photography skills I’ve learned during my time here.
Next year I plan to attend California State University, Fresno, joining the cheer and rodeo team while doing cosmetology and majoring in liberal studies as a backup plan.
I would like to thank my editor, Julia Castiglione, for always reviewing my work before publishing it and Mrs. James for letting me be a part of The Feather.
XOXO, Rynna.
For more senior columns, read Senior Reflection: Sanjay Stephen or Senior Reflection: Chloe McDonald.
