Jefferson County Photography Project

Photographer Benita Keller teaches and coordinates the black and white film project with a group of 10 committed individuals. Black and white film processing and printing, camera techniques, and the visual concepts of fine art portrait, landscape and photojournalism are taught in the workshop. Students are given assignments to photograph events, places, people and the landscape of Jefferson County. The project looks at all areas of Jefferson CountyundefinedHarpers Ferry, Charles Town, Middleway, Ranson and all the small communities that lie in between.

Participating photographers are encouraged to look at what is around them as well as "what else needs to be documented in Jefferson County." The workshops are designed not just to have participants take pictures but to explore and document with a mature visual concept that fits into the concept of fine art photography.   

Specific outcomes result from the project: each participant develops individual portfolios, and selections from these portfolios are used in several ways. Three exhibitions of the best work from all the students will be held in Jefferson County galleries, including the South Jefferson Public Library Community Room and Gallery, the AHA! Fire Hall Gallery in Charles Town Visitors Center,  and the Bridge Fine Art Gallery in Shepherdstown.

Additionally, online sales of a self-published book covers the cost of publishing and local newspapers will carry photographs from the project for futher promotion. AHA! is planning a special event where each participant will allow a photograph to be placed for auction.