Each year, Sparkman photography students take an exciting trip to Nashville, where one of the highlights is visiting Nossi College of Art & Design for exclusive studio demos and hands-on photography experiences. Sparkman High School is home to an exceptional photography program, preparing students for creative careers through hands-on learning and expert instruction. Many Sparkman alumni have gone on to attend and graduate from Nossi College of Art & Design, in Nashville.
A Day of Interactive Learning at Nossi College
This year’s visit to Nossi College was packed with engaging photography demonstrations that gave students a glimpse into professional techniques and studio setups. Some of the standout experiences included:
- Fashion Photography Demo: Students observed and participated in a fashion shoot featuring a live model instructed by Sparkman Alumni and current Nossi Senior Ami Merchant. This session provided insight into lighting techniques, posing, and composition for editorial photography.
- Projection Wall Photography: This innovative demo showcased the use of projected visuals to create dynamic and artistic portraits. Students saw how projection mapping can transform a simple portrait into a work of art.
- Water Demo for Product Photography: In this session, students experimented with creative water effects, learning how to capture stunning product photography using splashes and reflections.
These hands-on photography experiences sessions allowed students to apply their classroom knowledge in a professional setting, enhancing their skills and inspiring future career paths.
Visiting Westlight Studios with Nossi Instructor Laura Partain
Beyond their visit to Nossi, Sparkman students also had the opportunity to explore Westlight Studios, Franklin, TN. There, they caught up with Nossi Instructor Laura Partain, a professional photographer who shared industry insights and personal experiences from her career. This connection provided students with valuable networking opportunities and real-world perspectives on the photography industry.
Why Hands-On Learning Matters
Experiential learning is a crucial part of developing a successful career in photography. By engaging in hands-on demos, working with professional models, and interacting with industry experts, Sparkman students gain confidence and technical skills that will serve them well in their future creative pursuits. Nossi College of Art & Design continues to be a key partner in fostering this growth by providing a platform for young photographers to learn and thrive.
Conclusion
The annual Sparkman High School visit to Nashville is more than just a field trip—it’s an opportunity for students to engage with the professional world of photography and discover new possibilities for their future. Through dynamic experiences at Nossi College of Art & Design and Westlight Studios, these aspiring photographers are gaining the inspiration and skills they need to turn their passion into a career.