The ford theater Photojournalism Residency
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 Theater.
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 16–24 through two engaging residencies: The Ford Lab Photojournalism Residency and The Ford Concert Photography Residency
The Ford Lab photojournalism residency: Through Our Lens
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 four 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 June and ends October. Exact dates for orientation and project outline is TBD but further information can be found via application.
Commitment
Residency Expectations:
Attend Onboarding and Training workshops
Participate in check-in’s with assigned mentors and industry professionals
Work independently and photograph behind-the-scenes rehearsals of assigned artists.
Develop a photo essay with an accompanying written narrative for the assigned artist.
Estimated total time commitment: 40 hours
Compensation
All participants will be compensated with a stipend of $1,000 at the end and completion of the program.
Pre-requisites
Must be an alumni of LFP (Las Fotos Project) or a participant of BIC (Black Image Center)
This opportunity is open exclusively to emerging photographers who are 19 years of age or older on/or before the application submission date
Have no more than two years of paid professional experience in photography
Applicants must have fewer than five published pieces in a publication or exhibition.
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)
All participants must reside in/near Los Angeles, CA
Past Cohort
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Caitlin Jane Calica
The Ford Lab Photojournalism Residency - 2025
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Ruth Guttierez
The Ford Lab Photojournalism - 2025
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Catherine Rodriguez
The Ford Lab Photojournalism - 2025
Previous Work
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Caitlin Jane Calica
The Ford Lab Photojournalism Residency - 2025
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Ruth Guttierez
The Ford Lab Photojournalism - 2025
APPLICATION
What you need
Submit a letter of interest for the opportunity (Minimum 250 words, max. 500)
Submit a one-page vision board/pitch demonstrating how you would approach this project for one of the following artists:
If I Awaken in Los Angeles: Get Lit – Words Ignite; Spoken word, music, dance, and video form a multimedia love letter to our diverse and beloved City of Angels.
When to Apply
April 10 - Application opens
May 15 - Application closes
Where to Apply
Applications can be found HERE
Who can Apply
This application is only open to alumni of LFP and participants of the Black Image Center.