Our curriculum focuses on therapeutic photography, photojournalism, and career readiness, empowering students to take the reins and apply their creativity in ways that are both personal and practical.
Each semester, students work with a professional DSLR camera kit and participate in classes that are entirely free—removing barriers to access and ensuring every voice has the chance to be heard.
PHOTOGRAPHY
EDUCATION
Our curriculum focuses on therapeutic photography, photojournalism, and career readiness, empowering students to take the reins and apply their creativity in ways that are both personal and practical.
Each semester, students work with a professional DSLR camera kit and participate in classes that are entirely free—removing barriers to access and ensuring every voice has the chance to be heard.
Esta Soy Yo
Esta Soy Yo is our flagship fine art and self-exploration course, utilizing therapeutic photography and project-based learning to help teens discover their voice. Emerging artists build self-confidence and self-efficacy while learning photography basics, exploring themes of identity, home, and relationships, and working with mentors to realize a personal semester-long project.
Digital
Promotoras
Our Photojournalism course, Digital Promotoras, positions emerging storytellers as youth leaders using photography to raise awareness about pressing social issues. Through documentary photography, visual storytelling, and digital campaigns, storytellers learn photography basics, collaborate on solutions, share community resources, and develop advocacy strategies that spark dialogue and drive change.
CEO
The CEO (Creative Entrepreneurship Opportunities) course is part of our Creative Career Pathways initiative. CEO teaches emerging photographers how to turn technical skills into career opportunities in the creative industry. Through weekly classroom instruction and paid, hands-on training, photographers gain entrepreneurial skills, explore digital media careers, and build the confidence and tools needed to thrive as creative professionals.
Enrollment
FAQ
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We accept student applications via AfterSchoolHQ.com/LasFotosProject. Applications typically open in November/December and June/July. Be sure to sign up for our interest form to get notified when new courses are available.
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Students must be between 13-18 years old. If you will be turning 13 by the start of the semester or recently turned 18, you’re welcomed to apply.
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Not at all! Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience, our programs are designed to support all skill levels.
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Nope! We provide cameras for students to use during class. If you have your own camera, you’re welcome to use it!
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Nope! We welcome students from across the Greater Los Angeles area. The only requirement is that you can attend class in person each week, as students are responsible for arranging their own transportation.
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Classes take place once a week, either after-school or on the weekends at our space in Boyle Heights, CA.
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Students commit to a minimum of 4 hours per week over a 15-week semester. Attendance in all classes is required. This includes:
Attending class
Weekly check-ins with your mentor
Taking photos
Uploading your work to Google Drive
Las fotos Project
MENTORS
Las Fotos Project mentors are adults connected to the visual arts—ranging from avid hobbyists to practicing professionals, with backgrounds spanning education, photojournalism, fine arts, editorial, and beyond. What they share is a passion for connecting with emerging creatives and a commitment to building community through photography.
Mentors volunteer three hours per week for 15 weeks, collaborating with middle, high school, and young adult students in a supportive classroom setting. They are caring individuals who learn alongside youth, take creative risks, and participate in professional development opportunities that strengthen their own practice as artists and educators. At LFP, mentoring is a two-way exchange: mentors inspire the next generation while learning from their mentee and growing as part of a collaborative network of peers.
Mentor FAQs
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We ask that you have reliable transportation to attend weekly in-person class sessions at the Las Fotos Project space. In addition, you’ll need reliable internet and a device to connect to our Discord channel weekly. We also use phone and email as needed for communication.
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Mentors are required to attend one in-person class per week (2.5 hours) and maintain consistent communication with your mentee(s) outside of class (about 1 additional hour weekly).
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Not necessarily! While most of our mentors are current or former professionals in the visual arts or an adjacent field, we welcome anyone who is passionate about supporting youth and committed to the creative process.
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You will mentor 1–2 students during the semester.
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Mentors must be 18 years or older and must be able to complete a Live Scan background check.
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Before the semester begins, mentors are required to attend two orientation sessions, held on separate days. Attendance at both sessions is mandatory. These sessions include:
An introduction to Las Fotos Project
Training on mentorship best practices
An overview of our educational methodology
Guidance on supporting teen mental health and working with young people
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During the second week of the program, both mentors and students submit their preferences to the Teaching Artist. Pairings are made based on alignment of interests and availability.
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That’s totally okay! The Las Fotos Project staff, your Teaching Artist, and your fellow mentors are here to support you every step of the way.
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Live Scan is a fingerprint-based background check required for working with youth. While Las Fotos Project covers the full cost, mentors are responsible for paying out-of-pocket at the time of their appointment. We’ll provide instructions on where to go and how to submit your receipt. Once we receive your proof of payment, we’ll process your reimbursement promptly.
Have more questions?
Email us at info@lasfotosproject.org