Youth Programs at Contact Photo
Inspiring the Next Generation of Photographers
Contact Photo provides high school students with hands-on photography education, creative mentorship, and access to professional equipment. Through our programs, students learn how to use photography as a tool for storytelling, self-expression, and community engagement.
Contact Photo Youth League Fall 2026 & Spring 2027
Applications are now open for Fall 2026 Semester!
The Contact Photo Youth League is a semester-long photography program for high school students interested in learning the fundamentals of photography, developing their creative voice, and building a portfolio of work.
Students will learn:
Camera operation and exposure
Composition and visual storytelling
Digital photography and editing
Critique and portfolio development
Photography history and contemporary practices
No prior photography experience is required. Cameras and materials are provided. Click Here to Download a Flyer
Who Can Apply?
Open to NYC high school students who are:
Interested in photography and creative expression
Able to attend weekly weekend classes
Willing to participate in critiques and group discussions
Students will submit:
Basic information
A portfolio of up to 10 photographs
(camera or smartphone photos accepted)Most recent transcript
Program Details
📍 Location: Contact Photo, 51 Porter Ave, Brooklyn
📅 Schedule: Students will participate in one of two weekend photography classes:
Saturday Photography Class
Saturdays, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
September 12, 2026 – December 19, 2026
Sunday Photography Class
Sundays, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
September 13, 2026 – December 20, 2026
⏱ Program Length: Two separate semesters are offered during the 2026–2027 school year:
Fall 2026 Semester: September – December 2026
Spring 2027 Semester: January – May 2027
Students may apply for one semester or continue into the following semester based on availability and participation.
💰 Program Fee: A small semester lab fee is required
🎓 Financial Support: Need-based fee waivers are available
Accepted students must submit parent/guardian forms before participating.
Photography Workshops for Schools
Contact Photo also offers customized photography programs for schools and youth organizations.
Programs can include:
Introduction to Photography
Film Photography & Darkroom
Documentary Photography
Portfolio Development
Programs can be adapted to meet the needs of each school.
Contact us at Hello@ContactPhoto.org
These programs are made possible by the generous support of the National Endowment for the Arts and KEH Camera.
