CCICDA and VMCA Host Special Photography Course for Seniors
As the issue of an aging population becomes increasingly prominent, enriching the lives of retirees has emerged as a key social concern. Recently, the Canada-China International Cultural Development Association (CCICDA) and the Vaughan Multicultural Centre (VMCA) co-hosted a series of special photography courses for seniors. These courses not only helped seniors acquire photography skills but also provided them with a meaningful way to express their emotions and capture the beauty in their daily lives.
Photography: The Perfect Blend of Art and Technique
Photography, a hobby that balances both artistic and technical elements, offers seniors an ideal platform to develop their aesthetic sense and creativity. Through photography, they can capture special moments in everyday life and share their personal stories through images.
This photography course was taught by Toronto’s experienced photographer Alex, who covered both theoretical learning and practical applications. Over the course of more than ten classes, participants progressed from beginners to skilled photographers capable of producing creative works. The course included lessons on light usage, composition techniques, and how to capture people and landscapes from different angles, all of which enhanced the seniors’ photography abilities.
Practice and Exploration: Discovering Beauty Through the Lens
What made the course special was its combination of online instruction and multiple in-person practice sessions. During these hands-on sessions, Alex patiently guided participants in mastering photography techniques, helping them apply what they learned in real-world shooting scenarios. One particular outdoor shooting session, despite being challenged by unexpected heavy rain, led to some uniquely beautiful post-rain shots that showcased the interplay of light and shadow.
The latter part of the course featured a photo critique session, where Alex provided in-depth feedback on participants’ work. Through detailed analysis on aspects such as observation, composition, lighting, and color, the instructor offered professional advice that not only improved the seniors’ technical skills but also enhanced their sensitivity to beauty and their ability to express themselves artistically. As the seniors shared their photos and experiences, bonds among them grew stronger.
Photography Exhibition: Capturing Life, Sharing Stories
On September 21, following the completion of the course, the organizers held a lively photography exhibition showcasing the participants’ best works created during the lessons. The exhibition attracted a large number of local residents, many of whom expressed admiration for the seniors’ creative efforts. The photographs reflected the seniors’ vibrant and diverse retirement lives, capturing the everyday moments that carry deep meaning.
This photography course not only enriched the lives of the seniors but also provided them with a platform for learning and mutual exchange. Moving forward, the Vaughan Multicultural Centre plans to continue hosting similar activities, helping more seniors find joy in life and document beautiful moments through photography.
This event was not just a simple photography course but also an artistic exploration and emotional expression of senior life. By participating, the seniors learned new skills and experienced the richness and fulfillment of retirement. It stands as a testament to the community’s support for seniors’ well-being and a reflection of humanistic care.
