The ford theater
Residency details
Las Fotos Project x The Ford
In 2021, a visionary partnership was born from a simple lunch conversation between Cynthia Fuentes, Director of The Ford, and Helen, Executive Director of Las Fotos Project. Together, they launched a groundbreaking collaboration—the first of its kind between a major performing arts institution and a community-based nonprofit—empowering young photographers to capture the spirit of live performance at the historic Ford Theatres.
Now entering its sixth official season in 2026, this partnership has become a cornerstone opportunity for Las Fotos Project youth, beginning as a short-term residency for CEO students and growing into a robust and dynamic program for both high school and young adult participants ages 13–24 through two engaging residencies: The Ford Lab Photojournalism Residency and The Ford Concert Photography Residency
The Ford Lab photojournalism residency
The Ford Lab Photojournalism Residency:
The Ford, Las Fotos Project (LFP), and Black Image Center (BIC) is a collaboration residency that brings emerging photographers (ages 18-24) to document the artistic process of select performing artists. The Ford Lab Photojournalism Residency offers three photographers the opportunity to capture artists as they prepare for their debut performances at The Ford. With guidance from industry professionals, participants create compelling photo essays that reveal the story behind the work, provide audiences with a behind-the-scenes view, and help promote upcoming shows. This collaboration is part of The Ford’s Community Residencies program, which expands youth-centered career development opportunities in the arts through partnerships with local organizations.
Residency Period
This residency begins X and ends X.
Commitment
Residency Expectations:
X
X
X
X
Estimated total time commitment: XXXX hours
Compensation
All participants will be compensated with a stipend of $XXX at the end and completion of the program.
Pre-requisites
Must be between the ages of 18 to 24.
Must be available for 90% of commitments
Have an established website or body of work
Must be able to work independently as a photographer, editor and writer. (Participants will have mentorship support and educational opportunities and check-ins with FORD representatives but will take on projects independently)
The Ford Concert photography residency
The Ford Concert Photography Residency
The Ford Concert Photography Residency in partnership with Las Fotos Project is a residency open to Las Fotos Project current CEO students and alumni (ages 13-18). The residency opens the opportunity to participants to photograph live shows hosted at The FORD theater. Participants gain hands-on experience as official house photographers, capturing the magic of live events at The Ford with the support of mentors who work closely with seasoned photographers and creative professionals to hone their craft. Participants can use the approved material they create over the season for their portfolio.
Residency Period
This residency begins X and ends X.
Commitment
Residency Expectations:
Photograph and edit two live FORD shows at The Ford Theater
Attend two trainings and onboarding workshops before the season begins
Attend and participate in a culmination celebration with a panel to talk about your experience in the program
Collective hours of commitment: XXX hours
Compensation
All participants will be compensated with a stipend of $XXX at the end and completion of the program. Mentors who commit to supporting during the season will also receive a stipend of $XXX split in half to be received at the start and end of the season.
Pre-requisites
Must be between the ages of 13-18
Must be available for 90% of all commitments (workshops and shows)
Must have a proficient understanding of manual camera settings
Must have completed at least one semester of CEO at Las Fotos Project
Must be comfortable or open to working in high-energy/fast-paced environment
PAST COHORT
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Presley Meña
The Ford Theater Concert Photography Resident - 2025
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Aaliyah Calderon
The Ford Theater Concert Photography Resident - 2025
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Miranda Aquino
The Ford Theater Concert Photography Resident - 2025
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Ale Rivas Vargas
The Ford Theater Concert Photography Resident - 2025
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Delilah Mendez
The Ford Theater Concert Photography Resident - 2025
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Ruth Gutierrez
The Ford Lab Photojournalism Resident - 2025
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Caitlin Calica Jane
The Ford Lab Photojournalism Resident - 2025
PREVIOUS WORK
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Miranda Aquino 2025
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Miranda Aquino 2025
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Aaliyah Calderon 2025
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Aaliyah Calderon 2025
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Delilah Mendoza 2025
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Delilah Mendez 2025
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Preseley Meña 2025
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Presley Meña 2025
APPLICATION
Pre-requisites
The Ford Lab Photojournalism Residency
Proficiency in shooting in manual mode
Completion of at least one semester of CEO
Comfortable working in a loud, fast-paced environment
The Ford Concert Photography Residency
Availability for 90% of games and all required commitments (programs, workshops, etc.)
Proficiency in shooting in manual mode
Completion of at least one semester of CEO
Comfortable working in a loud, fast-paced environment
What you need
Link to Portfolio
Artist bio
Letter of recommendation (not from LFP staff; mentors are allowed)
5–7 strong concert/movement/event images (PDF format)
Statement of intent: Why you’re interested in this specific opportunity
Current commitments and availability for the upcoming season
Self-evaluation of your manual photography skills
Professional headshot
When to Apply
Application for The Ford Lab Photojournalism Residency
X - Application posted
X - Application closed
Application for The Ford Theater Concert Photography Residency
X - Application opens
X - Application Closes
Where to Apply
Applications be accessed through the LFP Studio Student Portal.
Who can Apply
This application is only opened to current students and alumni of Las Fotos Project.