Welcome to FreshLens Chicago

A tuition-free photography program for under-resourced Chicago Students

Our Mission →

Applications are open for Fall 2026 Basic Program!

“Thank you for giving us this great opportunity

and the resources to show our creativity.”

Apply Now

NEWS & EVENTS

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2026 Spring Showcase
Friday, June 5, 5 pm to 7 pm

Please join us for the Opening Reception of the 2026 Spring Showcase featuring the latest graduates from the Basic Program! Consider supporting our students by purchasing their artwork either for yourself, a friend, or donate a framed print to one of our community partners!

View & Purchase Artwork

Cheers to 10 Years!
Event Recap

Thanks to the incredible support of our FreshLens community, our Cheers to 10 Years celebration raised $67,000 toward our $75,000 goal!

But we're not finished yet! We’re still working toward reaching our $75,000 fundraising goal, and there’s still time to help us get there.

We are so grateful to everyone who attended, donated, bid on auction items, participated in the paddle raise, and helped make our 10th anniversary celebration such a memorable evening. Your generosity helps us continue providing tuition-free photography education, creative opportunities, and mentorship to Chicago youth.

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