LCO Boys and Girls Club Career Path Presentation

Inspiring the Next Generation at the LCO Boys & Girls Club

Yesterday, I had the privilege of presenting to the LCO Boys & Girls Club Career Pathway Program on behalf of James Netz Photography, and it was truly a rewarding experience.

There’s something special about sharing what you love with young people who are just beginning to explore what their futures might look like. We walked through the fundamentals of the photography and videography industry — from camera operation and lenses to lighting, audio, editing tools, and the real-world applications of visual storytelling.

I brought along some of the equipment we use both in the studio and out in the field, giving them a hands-on look at the tools that help us create the wildlife and landscape imagery so many of you see in our Hayward gallery. The students were engaged, curious, and full of great questions about how to turn creativity into a career.

One of my favorite parts of teaching — whether it’s workshops in the field or presentations like this — is seeing that moment when something clicks. When they realize photography isn’t just taking pictures; it’s patience, preparation, technical skill, and passion combined.

We’re already planning a follow-up session that will take place outdoors, where they’ll get to experience photography in a real-world setting. I’m looking forward to guiding them through light, composition, and seeing nature through a photographer’s eyes.

If even one student walks away feeling inspired to pursue photography or videography, then it was more than worth it.

A heartfelt thank you to the LCO Boys & Girls Club for the invitation. It’s an honor to give back and help inspire the next generation of creatives.