Photographs by Belmont High School students and Emmy Award-winning cinematographer John Simmons will be on display in the upper and lower level theater lobbies at the ArcLight Cinemas in Hollywood through Nov. 7.

John Simmons (photo courtesy of ASC)

The exhibit blends archival images from Simmons’ collection with selections from his current portfolio. The photographs are paired with images by students showcasing different periods of childhood.

“Sometimes it takes a cinematographer to help teenagers find their focus,” said Elizabeth Bush, who runs Belmont High School’s photo program for inner city students. “John makes yearly visits to my photography classes and we are so thankful for his kind and inspiring presence. He initially arrives as this abstract figure from the world of Hollywood yet he leaves my students with a substantial gift. After his visit, students feel renewed inspiration to lock into the moments that hold greater importance in their lives.”

Berenyze Sanchez, one of the students featured in the exhibit, said the project taught students about different ways to look at subjects.

“I hope that people who see the exhibit get a hold of how other people live, not just the famous people of Los Angeles,” Sanchez said.

Student Nicolle Reyes, who also participated in the photo program, hopes moviegoers enjoy the images.

“I think people will get to know other stories of kids who have different lives than them,” Reyes said. “But we’re all the same at heart. Our souls are the same.”

The ArcLight Cinemas are located at 6360 W. Sunset Blvd. For information, visit the American Society of Cinematographers at www.theasc.com.