Another photo presents a leafless tree in winter, its branches reaching high into the sky, as if seeking freedom and opportunities. The young photographer shoots upward, but the sky is empty. This image, along with nine other "picks," will be sold in postcard size for 15 yuan (US$2.10)

Other pictures take an unflinching look at shabby furnishings, wistful siblings hugging toys for sale, and simply happy play with friends in the street.

"I want to show everyone my family," says 15-year-old He Chuanqi.

Other students feel the same. Most used half the shots on their 36-roll film to take pictures of their families.

The project is also important to the volunteers as it brings together expats and Chinese.

"It was great finally getting to know a small but nevertheless real part of Shanghai rather than just hanging out in a separate world of our own," says Daniel Allegri,22,an American assistant in the photography class.

(Shanghai Daily March 23, 2008)