March 31, 2021 - Three Smithson Valley High School students along with their instructor received recognition for their photography skills from the Association of Texas Photography Instructors (ATPI) in two annual contests, the Fall Photo Contest and this year’s Virtual Winter Conference Contest.
Freshman Olivia Ingram received a superior rating for her environmental self-portrait and honorable mention for her digital image, “Red.” Sophomore Sophia Goodwin received honorable mention for her digital image, “Family;” and SVHS Journalism Adviser Margaret Edmonson placed third for her “Burgers and Fries” entry in the Faculty Fast Food category. All three received these honors in the Winter Conference Contest.
Sophomore Matthew Capetillo earned third place in the travel category of the Fall Photo Contest for his hot air balloon photograph.
“I am proud of these students for submitting their work to these contests,” said Edmonson, who entered her own work to show them that she was willing to do exactly what she was asking them to do. “When you submit your work, it is like holding up a part of yourself and letting others judge it and that takes some confidence. When you are recognized for that work, your self-confidence increases, and you feel validated that you are doing good work. With that confidence boost comes the desire to try new techniques and stretch your skills.”
Edmonson is always looking for ways to give her students more opportunities. As a member of ATPI, she is able to give them access to many resources beyond the world of school yearbooks and newspapers.
“They see what is possible with a camera and digital editing programs,” she said. “They learn how to do photography for journalism, commercial business and art.”
In fact, ATPI provides information and resources to teachers and students who work with photography, whether in art, journalism, career and technology or vocational curriculum areas.
Congratulations!
-Smithson Valley High School freshman, Olivia Ingram, received a superior rating for environmental self-portrait.
-Smithson Valley High School freshman, Olivia Ingram, received honorable mention for her digital image, “Red.”
-Smithson Valley High School sophomore, Sophia Goodwin, received honorable mention for her digital image, “Family.”
-Smithson Valley High School sophomore, Matthew Capetillo, received third place for his hot air balloon photograph.
-Smithson Valley High School journalism adviser and teacher, Margaret Edmonson, received third place for her “Burgers and Fries” entry in the Faculty Fast Food category.