Photographer and educator Todd Vorenkamp has created a delightful and educational photography book for young readers, titled “A Is for Aperture: the ABC’s of Photography.”
Beautifully illustrated by Jordana Shapiro,a creative director and graphic designer with a passion for photography education,the book presents fundamental photographic concepts in a child-pleasant ABC format.
While designed with children in mind, “A Is for Aperture” is sure to charm seasoned photographers as well. Shapiro’s vibrant illustrations and Vorenkamp’s concise descriptions delve into a variety of photographic terms, common camera gear, and diverse photographic genres.
The book is a treasure trove of photographic knowledge,introducing readers to essential terms like aperture and bokeh alongside historical insights into renowned photographers and camera manufacturers.
Each letter of the alphabet unlocks a world of finding. Readers will encounter lens apertures depicted alongside iconic names like Ansel Adams and Diane Arbus.
Vorenkamp, who is deeply passionate about sharing his love of photography, sees the book as a way to inspire young minds and connect with photographers of all levels.He believes “A Is for Aperture” fills a gap in the market, providing engaging and accessible learning content for budding photographers.
The author hopes the book will not only introduce photographic concepts but also spark curiosity and encourage readers to delve deeper into the world of photography.
“A Is for Aperture: The ABC’s of Photography” is available in paperback and Kindle editions.
What age group is “A Is for Aperture: The ABC’s of Photography” suitable for?
Q&A with todd Vorenkamp on His New Book “A is for Aperture: The ABC’s of Photography”
editor: Todd,your book “A Is for Aperture: The ABC’s of Photography” has been described as both delightful and educational for young readers. What inspired you to create a photography book aimed at children?
Todd Vorenkamp: I’ve always been passionate about photography and education. I noticed a gap in accessible photographic content for younger audiences. I wanted to create something that could help cultivate that same passion in children. photography is such a rich field, and I felt it was essential to introduce these concepts early.
Editor: The book is beautifully illustrated by Jordana Shapiro. how did you collaborate with her to bring your vision to life?
Todd Vorenkamp: Jordana and I shared a common goal of making photography accessible and engaging. Her vibrant illustrations really complement the ABC format. Each letter not only introduces a photographic concept but also engages the imagination.We worked closely to ensure the images and text would resonate with both kids and adults alike.
Editor: You cover fundamental terms from aperture to bokeh. How do these concepts benefit young readers in understanding photography?
Todd Vorenkamp: Each term unlocks a basic principle of photography that can be visualized and understood easily. For instance, by explaining ‘aperture,’ kids can grasp how it affects light and depth of field, which are crucial in capturing stunning images. The ancient insights on photographers like Ansel Adams and Diane Arbus also provide context, showing young aspiring photographers the legacy and impact of the craft.
Editor: What do you hope children and even seasoned photographers will take away from “A Is for Aperture”?
Todd Vorenkamp: My hope is that the book sparks curiosity. For children, I want them to feel inspired to pick up a camera and explore their surroundings. For seasoned photographers, the book serves as a reminder of the joy and simplicity in the fundamentals of photography. It’s an engaging resource that I believe everyone can learn from,irrespective of their skill level.
Editor: In your opinion, why is it essential to engage children and encourage them to explore photography?
Todd Vorenkamp: Photography is more than just technical skills; it’s about storytelling and seeing the world through different perspectives. Engaging children in photography nurtures creativity and critical thinking. As they learn to observe and capture moments, they develop an gratitude for art and the world around them which is so vital today.
Editor: Your book is available in both paperback and Kindle editions. How do you see technology influencing the learning process in photography?
Todd Vorenkamp: Technology has made photography more accessible than ever. with smartphones and digital cameras, children can experiment and learn in real-time. Though, it’s vital to balance that with fundamental knowledge. “A Is for Aperture” aims to bridge that gap—providing a grounding in concepts while allowing them to explore through modern tools.
Editor: As we conclude, what practical advice would you give to parents wanting to inspire their children in photography?
Todd Vorenkamp: I’d recommend encouraging them to experiment with their devices. Allow them the freedom to explore different subjects and settings. Pair that with reading “A Is for Aperture” to reinforce what they learn. Most importantly, make it a fun and shared experience. That joy will be the catalyst for their growth as photographers.
Editor: Thank you, Todd, for sharing your insights on “A Is for Aperture.” It sounds like a fantastic resource for both young photographers and seasoned creators.
Todd Vorenkamp: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to see how this book will inspire the next generation of photographers.