You’ll need
- Scrap paper
- Pens or pencils
Use the art and music of nature to inspire creativity and celebrate what nature means to you.
Before you begin
- Find a safe place to do this activity. Try to find somewhere with interesting views, ideally outdoors.
Lights, camera, action
- Everyone should get into pairs. Make sure everyone knows the area for the activity, and that it is safe. In each pair there will be a ‘camera’ and a ‘photographer’. The camera must keep their eyes closed and there must be no verbal communication.
- The photographer should walk around the area with their camera and find interesting sights and views. They should position the camera and then double tap on their shoulder for them to open their eyes. After three seconds the photographer should tap the camera once more to close their eyes.
- Once the photographer has taken three photographs, the players should swap roles.
- After everyone has taken three photographs, bring the group back together and distribute drawing materials. Ask everyone to ‘develop’ their favourite photograph by drawing what they could see.
Reflection
This activity was about learning to take care and valuing the outdoors by capturing photographs of the area looking its best. Why did you like the photograph that you drew at the end? Why did you choose to photograph certain things? When you were the camera, did you trust your photographer at first?
Safety
All activities must be safely managed. You must complete a thorough risk assessment and take appropriate steps to reduce risk. Use the safety checklist to help you plan and risk assess your activity. Always get approval for the activity, and have suitable supervision and an InTouch process.
- Outdoor activities
You must have permission to use the location. Always check the weather forecast, and inform parents and carers of any change in venue.
- Active games
The game area should be free of hazards. Explain the rules of the game clearly and have a clear way to communicate that the game must stop when needed. Take a look at our guidance on running active games safely.
Encourage the participants to think creatively and use different angles, lenses and camera modes. Move the camera back and forth for zoom, lay them on the ground for an interesting angle and slowly spin them around for a panorama.
Use an area that meets all your access needs.
All Scout activities should be inclusive and accessible.