LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA — SOWELA Technical Community College Digital Arts and Communication students traveled to Big Bend National Park in Texas this June to develop their photography skills through an immersive astrophotography experience. Known for having some of the darkest skies in the United States, the national park provided students with rare opportunities to photograph stars, constellations and the Milky Way while applying classroom techniques in a real-world setting.
Students practiced long-exposure photography, composition and lighting techniques while capturing images of the park’s landscapes and internationally recognized dark skies. The desert terrain, mountain landscapes and exceptionally dark skies offered photographic opportunities unlike those available in Southwest Louisiana.
“Sometimes a classroom is more than four walls—it’s outside, surrounded by nature, where some of the best learning takes place,” said SOWELA Digital Arts Instructor Erik Jessen. “Experiences like this challenge students to adapt to new environments, solve problems creatively and develop the technical skills they will use in professional photography and media careers.”
Students returned with a portfolio of landscape and astrophotography images that showcase both their technical growth and creative perspectives.
This is the first time SOWELA Digital Arts students took the trip. While students regularly participate in design competitions, industry events and professional development opportunities, faculty sought to create a hands-on learning experience that would challenge students to apply their skills in an entirely new environment.
A total of six Digital Arts students participated in the trip, including Ani Manuel, Megan Miller, Lily Hebert, Jerrald Deshotel and Jacob Jewell. To be eligible, students must have earned an “A” in Photography and demonstrated strong work ethic, leadership and commitment to the program.
“This trip expanded my photography skills and opened a whole new avenue for me in photography,” said SOWELA student Jacob Jewell. “My ultimate career goal is to become a meteorologist, and the photography skills I gained through astrophotography will help me in the field, documenting conditions during post-storm surveys.”
The experience reflects SOWELA’s commitment to providing students with hands-on learning opportunities that prepare them for creative careers through real-world application of classroom instruction.
SOWELA’s Digital Arts program prepares students for employment and advancement within digital media. Two concentrations are available: Graphic Design and Media Production. Career pathways include advertising, printing, video, photography, website design, recording and more.
For more information, visit www.sowela.edu/digital-arts or contact the One Stop Enrollment Office at (337) 421-6550 or onestop@sowela.edu. Registration for Fall 2026 is open with classes starting Monday, August 10. Scholarships and financial aid are available for those who qualify.