The Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica will introduce a new art and science of photography program for its youth members.
The introduction of the National Photography Program is being made possible through sponsorship with Sony Electronics.
The program not only teaches youth the art and science of photography, but also includes the ImageMakers National Photography Contest, which has a rich, 50-plus-year history in Boys & Girls Clubs, and the photography category of Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA)’s Digital Arts Festivals.
Sony is also providing photography equipment so youth at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica have access to high-quality tools to use during the Program.
The package includes several Sony point-and-shoot cameras, Sony interchangeable lens cameras and Sony VAIO computers, as well as a stipend to help offset printing and other photography-related costs.
The Program seeks to engage youth to explore and build their skills in photography, digital arts and self-expression.
“We are pleased to offer a photography program at our Club and know our Club members will benefit greatly from the education and opportunities made possible through the National Photography Program and partnership with Sony Electronics,” said Aaron Young, CEO & President. “We are grateful to Sony Electronics for their support in providing access to programs and tools in the area of photography to engage all young people in the arts.”
Through a national partnership with BGCA, Sony is sponsoring two festivals to honor talented youth: ImageMakers National Photography Contest and the photography category of BGCA’s Digital Arts Festivals, where youth manipulate photos using digital technology.
The ImageMakers National Photography Contest invites youth age 6-18 to capture photographs in four different categories: culture and tradition, surroundings, portraits and photo with essay or poem.
Club youth complete projects that compete in regional BGCA art shows.
Regional winners then go on to compete for national recognition and additional education opportunities.