Students, professional photographers team up for community exhibition

Hawai‘i Technology Academy students will host their first photography exhibition during an evening of art, food, music and community today at Common Ground in Kīlauea on Dec. 5. They’ll be joined by Kaua‘i professionals Mike Coots and Sebastian Romero.

The exhibition is the vision of HTA teacher Mary Ernsdorf, who launched her analog photography high school elective 2 years ago. HTA students have been keen to learn this older art, coming to grips with 35mm film and working in the dark room that the school niftily installed in a small classroom space.

The exhibition uses the power of photography as social commentary, showcasing student projects that focus on critical challenges facing Kauaʻi, including substance abuse, the housing crisis and environmental issues.

“Photography has real impact,” Ernsdorf says. “Just one image can change how someone understands or engages with a subject. It can evoke empathy and open more dialogue. That’s why I’m excited about this exhibition — students are using their art to connect with their community and see the impact they can have.”

Students teamed up with their peers in HTA’s Participation in Democracy class, who are researching issues in their local communities, writing to their representatives and crafting their own legislation to target the problem. The photographers’ job was to document these projects, telling the story through imagery.

Unlike digital photography, the 36-frame limit of film demands students plan and think critically. This intense focus carried over to their subjects, requiring great sensitivity to avoid falling into stereotypes or misrepresentation.

“I started this class knowing nothing about photography; thinking I wouldn’t be any good,” says HTA junior Francesca Rosas. “But as we progressed, I learned how much more it is than just taking a picture; how much time and effort it takes just to see your final picture. And even though I’m still learning, I feel like photography is something that has really impacted my life.”

The students are exhibiting their work alongside two masters of the craft: professional photographers Mike Coots and Sebastian Romero.

“They have both been guest speakers for my class and have been so supportive,” Ernsdorf says. “What an inspiration for our students to exhibit their work alongside two people who are at the top of their fields.”

All the photographers will be in the gallery during today’s event to discuss their projects and the analog process. Guests will also be able to see some of the tools of the trade on display, and students will have their cameras ready to take black and white portraits in a complimentary photo booth.

The community event promises an evening of celebration, with food and refreshments, and live music provided by Beya — star of “The Voice” and “Hawai‘i to the World’ — and featuring Mr. Schmitz and Jam B.

Tickets are by donation and available on Eventbrite or at the door; all proceeds will go to support HTA’s analog photography program.

For more information, contact HTA Kaua‘i Campus Director Nathaniel Evslin via email at nevslin@myhta.org or Mary Ernsdorf mernsdorf@myhta.org.