Linn-Mar Photography Students Partner with Marion Fire Department for Community Collaboration Project

There is no better way to tap into the talents of our Linn-Mar students than through collaborative partnerships with Linn-Mar’s friends and neighbors in the Marion community. Every semester students are working alongside members of the Marion community through job shadows, guest presentations, project collaborations and other initiatives.

This spring students in Linn-Mar High School’s Digital Photography class recently stepped out of the classroom and into a unique, real-world learning experience through a creative collaboration with the Marion Fire Department. The project gave students the opportunity to apply their technical skills in a professional setting while also developing essential soft skills that are critical in the world of photography and beyond.

Over the course of the project, students captured nearly 50 portraits of firefighters and staff, using digital SLR cameras and lighting equipment. Students documented individual firefighters, crews, trucks, and the department’s honor guard, preserving moments that reflect the dedication and teamwork essential in emergency response.

 

“We were introduced to this project a few months ago, and we’re very excited about it. And it was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Avery Dolphin, a junior in the class. For Natalie Newton, another student in the class, the experience was entirely new. “I’ve never done anything like this. It was a new experience, and it was really nerve wracking at first because I’m not used to telling people how to pose for pictures. Once you get into it, it’s a really good experience.”

The experience went far beyond camera settings and lighting angles. “This project was about more than just taking pictures,” said Chris Thilges, LMHS Visual Arts teacher. “It was about learning how to communicate effectively, build rapport, and make people feel comfortable in front of the camera – skills that are just as important as knowing how to use the equipment.”

Students were responsible for setting up shots, directing subjects, and managing time efficiently. They practiced listening, giving clear instructions, and connecting with their subjects to bring out authentic expressions and personalities. As Avery explained, “We had like a big conversation about how you should talk to them, get to know them, have a nice conversation with them.”

“This hands-on experience provided students with a real-world application of their photography skills, allowing them to engage with professionals in a meaningful way,” said Thilges, who has taught at Linn-Mar for ten years in multiple disciplines. “The project was designed to highlight the importance of visual storytelling, as students observed and recorded the strength, camaraderie, and discipline that define the firefighting community.”

The collaboration also gave students a glimpse into the importance of community partnerships and how creative work can serve a larger purpose. The portraits will be used by the Marion Fire Department for internal and public-facing materials, giving students the satisfaction of seeing their work make a real impact.