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Beyond the Lens: Teen Photography Mentorship

With Annie Leibovitz and local photographers inspired by our latest exhibition

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!

We invite you to register for this unforgettable mentorship experience and the opportunity to learn how to capture the character of a person in an authentic and unique way.

Free, registration required. Submit your registration form now!

All experience levels are welcome, and no special equipment is required.

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

Note: Those registered for the program are required to attend the  kick off event with Annie Leibovitz from 8 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, September 16 at Crystal Bridges.

September 15: Registration deadline

September 16: Kick off event with Annie Leibovitz

September 30:
First meeting with mentor

October 14:
Touch base with mentor

November 3:
Photograph and artist statement submission deadline

November 18-26:
Showcase in the Studio

January 28:
Final exhibit reception

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.