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 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: 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 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 June and ends November. Exact dates for orientation and project outline is TBD.

Commitment

Residency Expectations:

Attend Onboarding and Training workshops
Participate in check-in’s with assigned mentors and industry professionals
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: XXXX hours

Compensation

All participants will be compensated with a stipend at the end and completion of the program.

Pre-requisites

Must be between the ages of 19 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)
All participants must reside in/near Los Angeles, CA

Past Cohort

Caitlin Jane Calica

The Ford Lab Photojournalism Residency - 2025
Ruth Guttierez

The Ford Lab Photojournalism - 2025

Previous Work

Caitlin Jane Calica

The Ford Lab Photojournalism Residency - 2025
Ruth Guttierez

The Ford Lab Photojournalism - 2025

APPLICATION

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

April 10 - Application opens
May 18 - Application closes

Where to Apply

Applications for The Ford Lab Photojournalism Residency can be found HERE

Who can Apply