From the time a child is born, nearly everything it has, everything it knows, comes from its parents. As the child grows older, more outside influences can change the course of their life, but in the end, the root of that person was created by their parents.

Junior Archer Bauer can attest to this fact. One of his most beloved hobbies came directly from his parents: photography.

“My mom has done [photography] since forever,” Archer said. “I picked up [the hobby] from her, and then I took a digital media class during my freshman year. That really taught me how to actually take photos and use software like Photoshop.”

Since taking that class, Archer’s love of photography has only expanded. He takes photographs throughout Grand Rapids and on trips that he takes with his friends and family.

Photography has grown to be a major part of Archer’s life. There are many reasons that he loves this art form so much, but one of the most important for him involves personal abilities.

“I am not particularly precise,” Archer said, “especially when it comes to painting and drawing—forms that use the hands. But with photography, I can use a tripod or other ways to somewhat alleviate that while still taking pictures that look appealing. [Photography] also gives me the chance to change [the photos while editing].”

Archer’s prowess with these skills has increased significantly since he took his first photography class. Although he knows he still has things to learn about the medium, he looks forward to using it in the future for bigger projects and in his day-to-day life.

The area in which he has improved the most is photoshop. Throughout his photography journey, the use of this tool has taught him the art of subtlety.

“I believe I have learned how to edit photos better,” Archer said. “I used to go for drastic changes to my photos, like bringing the blue tint up too much, making it the focal point of the image. Now I’ve learned that making minor tweaks will have the same effect, if not a better one.”

Archer has used these skills to photograph many different subjects, but his definite favorite is animals. He visits zoos in the area to photograph exotic animals and also spends time finding and capturing local wildlife around his own house.

One might imagine that next year when Archer takes AP Studio Art, his portfolio will be based on these creatures, but he actually plans to focus on humans instead. He wants to step out of his comfort zone and improve in an area that he is not as skilled in. He believes that this quality of art—pushing boundaries—is something that everyone can benefit from.

“Art helps you get out of your comfort zone and get outside more than you might [otherwise],” Archer said. “You might spend more time appreciating nature, which is always beneficial.”

Archer loves photography because it erases his personal limitations and forces him to try new things, allowing him to grow as a person. However, neither of these is Archer’s favorite thing about his hobby.

The most important benefit for Archer is much more sentimental.

“[Photography] helps you remember things,” Archer said. “I don’t just take photographs of animals. If I’m with my family and friends, I take pictures there too. Those pictures are always fun to have. My photographs help me remember trips I’ve taken with my family and things I’ve seen. I think it’s awesome to document those moments.”

Overall, photography has been an incredible experience and hobby for Archer to have. He is excited to pursue it in the future, possibly by taking trips to national parks and even other continents to photograph wildlife and maybe—after his experiences in AP Studio Art next year—people.

He hopes other people follow in his footsteps, as he did in his mother’s, and experience the same incredible benefits that he has.

“I think photography is a great way to remember and cement those important events in life,” Archer said, “and it also provides an invaluable outlet for creativity.”