OCT. 14-NOV. 5

Photographer Debra Iverson loves “to photograph children, because they are so natural, free, and open with their spirit.” The Washington native says she’s always liked photography—she was her family’s unofficial photo taker—but could never afford the equipment to really do the job the way she wanted to. Instead, she went into business. About 20 years ago, Iverson bought her first “real” camera. “It took about six or so visits to different photo retailers, because the salesperson kept asking me what I wanted to photograph, and I had no way of expressing it,” she recalls. “I knew I just wanted to see life through the lens.” Of course—and you probably have to be a parent to know this—life is seen most vividly in children. Our Children: Treat Them Well, on view at Adams Morgan’s BlackPearl Gallery through Nov. 5, displays a collection of Iverson’s black-and-white photos of kids—living and laughing. A mother hugs her son in “Unconditional Love.” A “Little African Dancer” (pictured) gets down on the sand. A father and son spend quality time together in “Hoops before Dinner.” The photographs are rich, beautiful, and vibrant, just like the children they celebrate. On view noon to 8 p.m. Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, through Nov. 5, at the BlackPearl Gallery, 1800 Belmont Arts, 1800 Belmont Road NW. PRICE TK. (202) 387-6306. (Natalie Davis)