A: Well, I've always been interested in taking pictures. I've enjoyed taking classes in photography, and I'm building a darkroom in my home. I agreed to be the spokesperson because I think it's great to be promoting photography in high school.

Q: What type of pictures do you like to take?

A: My favorites are black and white pictures, because they are timeless classics. I like to take pictures of lots of things: people--such as my nephews, my dogs, and just interesting objects that I see. For instance, I might take a picture of flowers by the side of the road, an old sign or a fence.

Q: Are your photos published on the Web?

A: No, I don't have a scanner, so I haven't tried to put them online yet.

Q: Do you have any advice for teens who want to enter the contest about what makes a good photo?

A: When taking pictures of a person, you should know something about the person and try to let that show in the photo. Also, I recommend learning about the technical side so that you can manipulate the outcome. It's more fun if you can control things like lighting and make special effects in the darkroom.

Q: Do you have any advice to young people who'd like to go into acting? How did you get your start?

A: I never took an acting class, so I don't know if taking classes would be helpful or not. I know it's important to get a good agent. I got started in New York, where I did a few small things and then auditioned for Les Miserables and got the part. From that experience I learned that I really enjoy the art of storytelling.

Q: Besides acting and taking pictures, what else do you like to do?

A: Besides taking pictures, I like shopping, and I like to drive.