Using digital cameras, students learn the art and science of photography!
Grades 5–8
Bring your digital camera! Learn the art and science of photography and discover what makes a good photograph while working in a digital lab. Display your work at the final exhibition!
Photography is a wonderful creative way to work digitally and independently. We will use the camera to find new ways of seeing and reflecting personal experience.
The focus of Young Photographers is on camera techniques, the use of computer software for enhancing images and refining editing techniques to share your personal vision.
Both experienced and inexperienced photographers are welcome.
The program instructor will help students build a digital portfolio and provide supportive feedback. Students will present a exhibition of their work at the end of the course.
This program will allow students to meet other creative youth and share their work, all while improving their photography and digital communication skills.
Typical Day
9:30 – 10:00am
Beginning of Day Check-In & Warm Up
Each day begins with an introduction to a fun new photography technique. We use this group time to ask questions and talk about what we have learned.
10:30am – 12:00pm
New Lesson/Project
Students will practice new skills with daily projects. This is when instructors will demonstrate new techniques such as manual functions of their digital camera, editing on Adobe Photoshop, and high quality printing. We will introduce many types of photography such as landscape, portrait and action photography. We will also look at great images by photographers past and present for inspiration.
12:00 – 12:45pm
Lunch
45 minute lunch break with their Teaching Assistants, usually eaten outside to enjoy the beautiful green space at Purchase College. This is a great time to re-charge for the afternoon by relaxing, playing games, and hanging out with new friends!
12:45 – 2:00 pm
Outdoor Photo Walk or Field Trip
We jump back in for a fun afternoon with a class photo walk and/or field trip. This is when we bring our cameras, (don’t forget extra batteries!) and explore different parts of campus. Field trips have included going to the pool to take actions shots of the diving camp, meeting with the Acting Intensive to take headshots, and visiting the world renowned Neuberger Museum. Try out the new skills you have learned!
2:00 – 3:00 pm
Individual Editing/Printing Time
After a full day of taking pictures, the students have time to edit and print their images, working on their selection of images for the final showcase. The instructors will answer questions and review students’ current projects one-on-one, introducing students to positive artistic feedback and suggestions for next steps.
3:00 – 3:30pm
End of Day Check-In
Artistic endeavors finish for the day and everyone engages in responsible studio clean up. We will check in as a group to address any questions or thoughts before heading home for the rest of the day. Ending the day as a group reinforces friendship and artistic community.
Program Details
YTH 9241 / Young Photographers
Session II: July 10 – 21
Monday – Friday, 9:30am – 3:30pm (10 sessions)
$1,200 for the first registration
$1,080 for the second registration in the family, Purchase College employees and alumni, and early registrations (paid in full May 5, 2023)
For a well-rounded summer, combine Young Photographers with Young Artists, Young Filmmakers, and/or Young Writers to maximize your creative experience.
Special Instructions
- Parent/caregiver check-in and out their student at designated location in Visual Arts Building.
- Students must bring lunch, refrigerators available.
- Please be sure that students come they come with plenty of water, a hat and sunscreen since we will be spending lots of time outside enjoying the summer weather.
- The Visual Arts Building is air conditioned; students may want to bring a sweatshirt
Student Exhibit
Student share their work with families and friends! During the program students vote on a theme for their final show. Together the staff and students will mount an exhibition of pieces made during our time together. Students will then bring their work home.