To some, photography is just a simple hobby to pass the time. To senior Erin Fencl, it’s a passion to capture the essence of people and objects. Fencl started photography two years ago, and it’s been in her heart ever since. You’ll never see Fencl without her Canon T7i strapped across her shoulder. She’s always prepared to take the perfect shot.

Fencl has taken both of the available photography classes at Mount Vernon in order to learn and improve her skills. Currently, Photo 2 is on her schedule and at the top of her priority list. Fencl decided to do photography in her free time while taking Photo 1. “I do photography outside of class for the fun of it,” Fencl said.

Photography is the art of capturing an image of a mood or emotion. Fencl’s favorite aspect of the hobby is illustrating a person’s expression. Whether that be someone else or herself. “I love taking pictures of people. Getting raw emotion is the best thing,” said Fencl. Making sure to get the right shot isn’t as simple as it seems. The settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO must be correct or else the photo will be all white, all black, or blurry.

Fencl’s work ethic in class leads to her becoming a better photographer. Art teacher Bonnie Ahrens says Fencl is very determined during her class. “She works through each project giving her full effort and attention. She also is helpful to other students during critiques,” said Ahrens. Fencl has also attended a job shadow at Cast of Thousands in Marion to see how a professional photographer works on a day to day basis. She will be going to Kirkwood in the fall to pursue a major in photography.

Fencl had the opportunity to take pictures at a wedding over spring break. She took on the responsibility, which led to boosting confidence in herself and her photo-taking ability. “I felt really important. People were relying on me and supporting me throughout the whole thing,” said Fencl. Her favorite part of the wedding was the ceremony. Seeing Angie Clark walk down the aisle created breathtaking affection that led to the perfect shot. Fencl’s favored pictures to shoot were little kids enjoying themselves. She thought their families would appreciate the candids.

Fencl has already won an award for her work. She submitted a photo in the digital photography category at the annual WaMac Art Contest and achieved the first place prize. “I was actually very surprised when I saw them flip to the next slide and I saw my photo,” she said. The whole situation made her very happy since it was only her second year doing photography. Mrs. Ahrens, also had strong feelings about Fencl winning. “I was relieved. The judging at WaMac can be very arbitrary so I didn’t know what to expect,” Ahrens said. Her photo is a self-portrait she took in her bedroom after creativity struck from after learning about gel lights in class. Fencl has also handed in a personal portfolio for All-State.

Hard work and practice really do enhance your work. Fencl has experienced that first hand. Students look at her work and believe she’s a natural, when in reality, it’s two years of practice, practice, practice.

Fencl is open for senior pictures and wedding photos. Contact her at [email protected] to schedule a session.

Gallery • 7 Photos

Erin Fencl

Dreamland