This past summer, I worked as a Photography Teaching Assistant at Interlochen Center for the Arts’ Summer Camp, located in beautiful Northern Michigan. I helped teach film photography to students ages 12 to 18, working with both intermediate and high school-level classes each day.
Teaching kids film photography and darkroom techniques can be challenging, but it was also incredibly rewarding. Photography has always been a passion of mine, and while film photography is one of my favorite hobbies (it would easily be my #1 if it weren’t so expensive!), this was my first time teaching it to others.
Going into the job, I had no idea what to expect—I had never heard of Interlochen before applying, and I had never taught before. But from the moment I arrived, I fell in love with the experience. The energy, the creativity, and the connections I made with both students and fellow staff members made this summer unforgettable. I discovered how much I enjoy teaching and mentoring, and it was amazing to watch students develop their skills and gain confidence in the darkroom. This experience not only deepened my love for film photography but also showed me how fulfilling it is to share that passion with others.
