Celebrating My Photo Professor, and Other Good People
Generally the crews were generous with their expertise, but I needed more support. That glimpse into the tv production world inspired me to take some vocational courses at the local college. There, I learned from a body of students who lacked prestigious art school pretension – and a cadre of professors who shared everything they knew. I had found my helpers, and continued to take courses there for years after the PA gigs ended.
Franklin Avery is a master of studio lighting and one of the most beloved professors of the Laney College photo department. Unfortunately, budget cuts led him to retire earlier than he planned, and yesterday was his last day as a teacher. He personally invited a bunch of past and present students to celebrate and say farewell. Though I wasn’t a student for nearly 10 years, we had kept in touch, and I was honored to be in attendance.
I am so grateful to Franklin and the many other helpers I have met over the years. They embody the spirit of community colleges: accessible, encouraging, and generous with their knowledge. This can be in stark contrast to the industry’s often guarded approach, and proof that creativity can thrive when it’s nurtured and shared.