Photographs provide a more concrete way of recording recollections than sketching portraits in sand or dictating memoirs to an empty jam jar. Preserve precious memories with today's Groupon: for $30, you get a 90-minute introduction to point-and-shoot photography class with Kim Hurt at Tilt Shift Studios (a $75 value). Classes run one Saturday per month in both Abilene and Brownwood. Upcoming class dates include January 29 or February 12 in Abilene, and February 19 in Brownwood. All classes begin at 10 a.m.

Kim Hurt, an energetic third-generation photographer, covers the basics of snap-shot prowess in her fun and informative intro class. Fledgling photographers can bring cameras of all sorts to this beginners' session, including digital and even iPhone varieties, to learn how to capture lasting memories of beloved family members reading copies of Beloved. Future paparazzi can also upgrade (paying any difference in price) to one of Hurt’s more advanced classes, including tutorials in Photoshop, lighting and flash, and SLR. Photos of moon men, however, require a radio telescope. Classes can be scheduled online or by phone.