Photography has the power to tell a story, and local photographer S. M. Lieu wants to help families learn how it does so in a hands-on family photography workshop at the Los Altos History Museum set for 9:30-11:30 a.m. April 5.
Open to youth and family units of any kind, the workshop provides an opportunity to learn how to create photographic memories that can be treasured for generations.
“Photos and memories are gifts to the future,” Lieu said. “People love looking
back at photos of themselves and their ancestors. My goal is to get participants
excited about their stories and memories, and to teach them to capture these moments in a meaningful way.”
A longtime Los Altos resident, Lieu grew up in a family of photographers and rediscovered her passion for photography in retirement. Her work has been featured at the Los Altos Library, displayed in downtown Los Altos and published in the Los Altos Town Crier and elsewhere, including Los Altos History Museum’s marketing content.
The workshop will start with a short talk by Lieu, who will share insights on family photography, illustrated with some of her photographs. Participants will then explore the museum grounds to take their own family photos, using the scenic setting as a backdrop. To conclude, participants will share their images for a group show-and-tell session, discussing their creative choices and the stories behind their photos.
“It’s very helpful to see how others approach photography – it sparks creativity and new ideas,” Lieu said. “I want this workshop to be a fun, interactive experience where families can be inspired to create their own memories.”
No special skills or equipment are needed – any camera, including a smartphone, will work.
The workshop is presented in conjunction with the museum’s new exhibition, “She Sang Me a Good Luck Song: The California Indian Photographs of Dugan Aguilar,” on display through June 8, 2025.
“Dugan Aguilar documented his people and culture through photography,” Lieu said. “Participants may want to include elements of their own cultural heritage in their photos through clothing or meaningful family objects.”
The workshop fee is $30 per family; $15 per family for museum members. Space is limited. Registration is required at losaltoshistory.org/photoworkshop.
