First Tech Fund Foto Program

First Tech Fund’s FOTO program is a 7 week-long photography program that provides NYC high school students with an introductory overview into how to use a camera to build foundational skills and learn about different types of photography, an overview of career pathways that involve photography, and an introduction to how critiquing in a group format works, and more. In addition to a photography-focused curriculum, students are paired with a mentor who has specific skills in art and photography to build their direct understanding of the field directly. Each student receives a DSLR.

We know that often one of the hardest parts of breaking into a new space is the cost -- and this provides real barriers for low-income students who simply cannot afford a camera, an SD card, and the other tools that are necessary for them to fully take part in the field. Even though we didn't raise enough money for the program in 2021, we ran it anyway because we knew how important it was for these students to express themselves after a difficult year.

In the future, First Tech Fund hopes to continue to grow the program to empower our talented, yet overlooked students by providing them students the curriculum, their first piece of technology in the form of a camera, and the mentorship they'll need to stay inspired -- helping to create more NYC storytellers and content creators.

Will you help us inspire the next generation of photographers?

- Norhan, Stacy, Josue, Hana, Hayley, Ryan, and Sara

Thank you for your support and consideration!