LOS ALTOS, CA (Mar 18, 2025) – Photography has the power to tell a story, and local photographer S. M. Lieu wants to help families learn how in a hands-on “Family Photography Workshop” at Los Altos History Museum on Saturday, April 5, from 9:30-11:30am.
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 from March 20 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, or $15 per family for Museum members. Space is limited, and registration is required at losaltoshistory.org/photoworkshop.
Los Altos History Museum began in 1977 with the opening of the historic J. Gilbert Smith House, built in 1905 on 14+ acres of apricot orchards planted by Mr. Smith. In 2001, Los Altos History Museum opened the modern building next door, which houses the Museum’s collections, permanent and changing exhibits, store and administrative offices. The Museum and its grounds are available for rent during evenings and weekends. Its collections are owned by the City of Los Altos and are managed by an independent nonprofit organization, whose staff and volunteers are responsible for all programs and operations.
The Museum is open Thursday through Sunday, from noon-4pm. Admission is free. Tours of the J. Gilbert Smith House are available during open hours. The outdoor agricultural exhibit, gardens and picnic area are accessible beyond Museum hours. For more information, visit: losaltoshistory.org, email hello@losaltoshistory.org, or phone 650.948.9427 x14.
Media Contact: Marketing@losaltoshistory.org
Los Altos History Museum: Diane Holcomb, 650.948.9427 x14, dholcomb@losaltoshistory.org
