What has always captivated me about photography is its ability to be a tool for exploration. A camera has opened doors to so many places and experiences for me. These days, most kids know how to use a smart device and take selfies. One group of Propel Hazelwood second- and third-graders got to delve deeper into photography during an after-school program I led. From the initial excitement of “meeting” their cameras to learning more about the medium, the students explored their vision of the community through photography. I was there to teach them, but they’ve taught me a lot about myself as a photographer and as a person. Having to teach the elements of photography — breaking down a photograph into its individual parts, whether it is color, shape, framing, facial expression, foreground, background — has reminded me to pay better attention to the creative devices that have become second nature to me. The students’ way of seeing isn’t inhibited by the aesthetics of photography. Watching how they experimented with their cameras has pushed me to take risks while photographing. The students’ photography will be on display along with the artwork created at other Propel after-school sites from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Mattress Factory. The show and main gallery are free and open to the public. View The Gallery >