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Beyond the Lens: Teen Photography Mentorship

With Annie Leibovitz and local photographers inspired by our latest exhibition

Crystal Bridges will close early at 4 PM on Friday, May 3, to prepare for the VIP Premiere of The Portal: An Art Experience by Jewel. Lunch will be served in the Great Hall on Friday. The Coffee Bar and select galleries will close at 3 PM.

Don’t miss your shot to learn from the best!

This teen program will give you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to learn about photography from world-renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz at the opening of her exhibition Annie Leibovitz at Work and be mentored by experts in the industry while creating a masterpiece of your own to be displayed in the Studio at Crystal Bridges.

Whether you’re just dipping your toes into the world of photography or preparing an art portfolio, this program is designed to help teens (aged 13-19) of all backgrounds level up their portrait photography skills. You’ll learn everything from practical photo-taking techniques to how to exhibit your work, and your final portrait will be showcased in the Studio, online, and in print!

Exhibition Content Advisory: Your student will have the opportunity to see some of Annie Lebovitz’s most iconic photographs spanning her career. Please note that some of the photographs contain nudity. While we will not focus on these photos, it’s important to know they can be seen throughout the exhibition.

Important Dates


November 18, 2023 – January 28, 2024:
Showcase in the Studio

January 28:
Final exhibit reception

Student Gallery

About Annie Leibovitz

Women sits on stool in doorway with larger light behind her and camera on tripod in front of her.
Annie Leibovitz, Self Portrait, Brooklyn, New York, 2017. Photo courtesy of the artist ©Annie Leibovitz.

With more than five decades of experience photographing some of the most influential names in entertainment, politics, business, and athletics, Leibovitz has established herself as a keen watcher of society. In 1973, at the age of 23, Leibovitz became Rolling Stone magazine’s chief photographer. Through her long-standing work with Vanity Fair and Vogue, Leibovitz further honed her signature blend of grit and grace that has come to define much of her practice. In 1991 she became the first female artist to have a solo show at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC.