Photography Now!
Capturing the world through the eyes of Kingston's youth.
Who It Serves
Kingston Youth
Ages 13-18
Season
Fall Season, 8 Weeks starting Oct 7th
Location
Ulster County Restorative Justice & Empowerment Center
Cost
FREE for all participants
About the Program
Photography Now! is an immersive 8-week program designed to teach children the art of visual storytelling. Students learn technical camera skills, composition, lighting, and editing while exploring their community through a new lens.
Location, Schedule & What's Included
Location
Ulster County Restorative Justice and Empowerment Center
733 Broadway, Kingston, NY 12401
View on Google MapsProgram Day & Time
What's Included
- Free Program Participation
- Professional Cannon DSLR Cameras (provided for use during class)
- Light Refreshments
- Personal Hard Drive or USB Storage Device for Photos
- Certificate of Completion
- Student Gallery Exhibition
- Instruction in Lighting, Composition, Portraits, Nature and Editing
All materials, equipment and instruction are FREE for every participating child.
More Than Just Pictures
We created Photography Now! because we believe every child has a unique perspective worth sharing. In a world dominated by screens, this program encourages youth to slow down, observe their surroundings, and find beauty in the everyday.
Throughout the program, students build confidence as they master professional equipment. They learn that their voice matters and that they have the power to document their own history.
The program culminates in a community gallery exhibition where students showcase their work to family, friends, and local leaders, fostering a deep sense of pride and accomplishment.
Instructor Spotlight
Onaje Benjamin
Lead Photography Instructor
Onaje is a renowned local photographer and visual artist with over 15 years of experience capturing the spirit of the Hudson Valley. His work focuses on community, identity, and the beauty of everyday moments. He is passionate about empowering youth to tell their own stories through the lens.
"Photography isn't just about taking pictures; it's about learning to see the world and your place in it with clarity and confidence."
What Kids Learn
Technical Skills
Self Expression
Community Connection
Digital Editing
Observation
Visual Literacy
Program Highlights
Hands-On Field Trips
Students don't just sit in a classroom. We take weekly walking tours through Kingston, visit local parks, and explore historic sites to practice real-world photography.
Community Exhibit
After completing Photography Now, youth participants curate and present their own photo exhibit, transforming their images into a public storytelling experience. The exhibit celebrates their creative voices, builds confidence, and invites families and the community to see the world through their lens.
Family Stories
"This program changed how my son sees the world. He used to just walk past things, now he stops to notice the light and details."
Sarah M.
Participant
"I never thought I could take photos like this. Seeing my work in the gallery was the best day ever!"
Jaden, Age 12
Participant
"MyKingstonKids provides top-tier equipment and instruction that is usually only available to college students."
Local Art Teacher
Participant
Program Gallery
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