Describe the Issue or Situation:

In the Lake Cumberland Area, many Homemakers had an interest in photography but lacked the necessary skills to fully engage with the craft. Photography skills were seen as valuable for capturing family memories, documenting events, and entering photos into local Homemaker competitions. Many participants felt underprepared to effectively use their cameras, limiting their ability to participate in photo contests and community projects. In particular, capturing high-quality images for Homemaker events and promoting activities with visual content were areas needing improvement.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response:

In response to this need, the Cooperative Extension Service developed an introductory photography workshop targeted specifically at Homemakers in the Lake Cumberland Area. The workshop was offered nine times, ensuring ample opportunities for participation. The sessions covered photography basics, including composition, lighting, camera settings, and editing techniques. The training aimed to make photography more accessible, regardless of the participant’s camera type, from smartphones to digital cameras. Extension agents worked to promote the program through county offices, newsletters, and social media. In addition to technical instruction, participants were encouraged to enter their photos into local Homemaker competitions, linking the new skills to practical community involvement.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience:

A total of aproximayrly 120 individuals participated across the nine sessions, representing a broad demographic of Homemakers in the Lake Cumberland Area. Participants ranged in age and experience, with many being retirees who were either learning photography for the first time or enhancing existing skills. The target audience consisted primarily of active members of Homemaker clubs, though there were also community members interested in improving their photography for personal use. Participants had varying degrees of familiarity with technology, from those comfortable with advanced cameras to those using their smartphones as their primary tool.

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact:

The photography workshop generated significant outcomes, with 85% of participants reporting increased confidence in their ability to use their cameras effectively. Many attendees highlighted their improved understanding of key techniques, such as framing, lighting adjustments, and photo editing. Participants reported greater ease in capturing family photos, documenting local Homemaker activities, and sharing these photos in newsletters and on social media to promote community events. Notably, 40% of participants entered their newly captured images into local Homemaker competitions for the first time. This was a substantial increase in participation and showcased a growing pride in the quality of their work.

Beyond individual accomplishments, the workshops had a broader impact on community engagement. Many participants used their photos to help promote Homemaker craft fairs, educational workshops, and fundraising events, enhancing the visibility of these initiatives. Additionally, the Homemaker photography competitions saw a surge in submissions, with higher quality and a wider variety of entries. These changes not only improved the competitions but also fostered a stronger sense of community among participants, encouraging continued involvement in future creative and educational opportunities.

The long-term impact of the program is evident in how participants continue to integrate photography into both personal and Homemaker projects, using their skills to preserve memories, share stories, and contribute to the visual documentation of community activities. These outcomes have highlighted the importance of continued skill development opportunities for Homemakers, showing that even introductory-level workshops can yield significant personal and community benefits.