Would you like to be more involved with your community, making a difference with your photography? It is very possible, as Ken Spence explains in the current issue of Better Photography.

Writes Ken, "As serious photographers, we have developed skills that others don’t have. Sure, most people have a phone and can take a photo with it, but how many people have the ability to take the photo that captures that important moment with precision and care, no matter what the setting or lighting conditions?

"As photographers who read magazines like Better Photography, we use these skills for pleasure, profit or both. But in addition to pleasure and profit, the focus of this article is on the two key questions raised in the quote above: What if your skill with your camera could provide the most precious gift to another person? What if you could make a difference to someone?

"When it comes to a photographer making a difference in their community, I immediately think of Peter Dombrovskis’ 1983 image, ‘Morning Mist, Rock Island Bend’ that is widely credited as ‘the photo that saved the Franklin River’ (try typing that into Google to see for yourself).

"That is a very high bar for us mere mortals to set for ourselves, so what I want to explore are examples of slightly lower hanging fruit where photographers have engaged with the community to make a difference. I am also interested in exploring what the photographers themselves have learnt and gained from these experiences.

"For my part, I am involved in two aspects of community engagement photography and it has been a privilege to capture the exciting work in
classrooms at schools throughout Melbourne and then for these images to inform supporters and funders as to the nature of this service. As well as enhancing my ‘on the run’ photojournalist skills, I have gained new insights into the education sector. So, how did I become involved?"

Ken explains his approach and how you too can become involved, using your photography. Read more in Better Photography magazine - subscribe at www.betterphotographyeducation.com.