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The Pacifica 4-H Photography Project is well known in San Mateo County for the quality and quantity of the photos its members enter into the San Mateo County Fair. A goal of the project is to make photography a normal part of one's life, and members are encouraged to always take their camera with them, and keep an eye out for photo opportunities. The group meets monthly and often takes field trips to visit photographer's studios, photo galleries, museums, and also takes photo safaris around the Bay Area. Members of the project follow themes throughout the year, and take photos that they enter in monthly photo contests. Examples of themes are portraits, light and shadow, landscapes, food, animals, 4-H projects, friends, and holidays.
Photography is a visual art and members are encouraged to show their photographs. In May, the walls of the Pacifica libraries are brightened with the works of art produced by the project's members. Members who complete the project are rewarded with the opportunity to gain fame and fortune by entering photos in the fair. Competing against other San Mateo County 4-H members in their age group, the young photographers prepare 1) close-ups, 2) a series of photos that tell a story, 3) single photos on topics of their choice, and 4) groups of prints. The Pacifica 4-H Photography Project prides itself on the awards it receives at Fair. For example, for the past 2 years running, in addition to numerous 1st and 2nd place ribbons and cash awards, its members won big silver plates for both the Senior and Intermediate high point awards, as well as the prestigious Judge's Choice Award for the top photo in the age group category. There are further opportunities to enter photo contests, such as for the opportunity to have their photograph included in the national 4-H calendar. One of the most valuable aspects of the project are the comments members can receive from both the project leader, fellow members, and professional photographers that have generously offered to critique our work. Follow the links below to see the work of the professional photographers that we have visited just this year. |

