Yesterday, we saw the detail of painting and cleaning painting brushes in Pskov, Russia. Today, we head back into Eastern Europe and head into the mountains of the Czech Republic to the location of our Family Camp at the Hotel Medlov.
As part of the Family Camp, we taught English Classes to the families who came to the camp. There were three levels of English classes – beginning, intermediate, and advanced.

Today's picture features Jim Liljegren, Vice-President of Church Planting for Encouragement International, getting to know his new advanced English class.
I was taking pictures of each of the classes on the first day of the camp, and as I was taking these group shots, Jim was conducting his “getting to know you” class interviews.
As I positioned myself to take a few candid photographs of the students, I saw this photo emerge as I scanned the class. I was originally looking at taking a picture of Vova (the boy behind Jim) when Jim leaned into the frame and had a grin on his face. I quickly snapped this photograph.
The natural light sweeping across Jim's face catches the detail of his face, smile, and eyes. Jim is a copious notetaker, and the bonus to this picture is the act of his pen prepared for action. Vova (the young boy) plays witness to Jim's response to the action taking place off camera. The smile and the look towards Jim provides focus on Jim, and to the apparent joy of the current discussion topic.
I have photographed Jim many times on these types of trips, and I can say this photograph is a rare one. I usually catch him in a bad pose or an awkward facial look; however, this one conveys the work and love that Jim has for the people whom he ministers to and with. I have been waiting several trips to get this type of shot!
If you want to learn more about Jim's ministry, check out his organization – Encouragement International. Tomorrow, we will stay here at the camp and look at a father and son sharing a special moment.
[This post is part of my Top 25 Summer Trip Pics series.]
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