“FreshLens Chicago was more than just a photography program for me; it was a lifeline, a launchpad, and a community that believed in me when I needed it most. It gave me the tools, confidence, and opportunities to discover my passion, build my career, and find my purpose in education. Because of FreshLens, I went from being an uncertain high school student during a pandemic to becoming a mentor, teacher, and advocate for others. FreshLens didn’t just change my life — it gave me the chance to help change the lives of others. ”

“Through my experience with FreshLens, I gained more than photography skills. I learned to step outside my comfort zone with more confidence, seek new opportunities, and express my personal growth in creative and meaningful ways. FreshLens gave me the chance to see what it was like to contribute to a community full of amazing people and opportunities that opened my insight into other perspectives. FreshLens saw me grow from when I was a teenager trying to figure out life to going into adulthood. One of the most significant aspects of this experience was the encouragement I received from the instructors, particularly during a challenging period in my life. Their support allowed me to explore one of my favorite memories, turning the experience into not just a way to expand my creativity, but also to bring a sense of purpose to my life and photography. ”

“FreshLens positively impacted my development and continues to be a system of support to this day. I developed a strong passion for photography my junior year of high school and sought out opportunities to learn more. This program immediately caught my attention because it was free and a great learning experience. Throughout my time in FreshLens, I was grateful to learn about how to use a camera, but more importantly, I was really impacted by the two facilitators of the program. Their contributions and efforts really showed through their teachings and through FreshLens as an organization. Their example inspires me to give back and create positive change in my own community, just as FreshLens continues to do across Chicago. Even now, I remain connected with FreshLens and feel grateful for their ongoing support.”

“FreshLens Chicago truly changed my life for the better. From the moment I joined their classes, I learned the fundamentals of using a camera with confidence. This foundation allowed me to advance into their higher-level courses, where my passion for photography grew even stronger. Over the years, FreshLens opened doors to incredible opportunities, from assisting on commercial sets to working on portrait sessions, which solidified my decision to pursue photography more seriously. These experiences not only inspired me to study photography in college, but also motivated me to become more deeply involved with the program itself. Beyond technical skills, FreshLens equipped me with the tools to turn a lifelong passion into professional, marketable skills. They gave me the resources to not only launch a career, but also begin building a business. Because of this, I’ve been able to give back to the very organization that invested in my future.
FreshLens has done more than open career doors for me. It has given me a lasting sense of purpose and direction, something I know I would not have found without them.”

“Be the master of your universe — this is more than just a phrase at FreshLens; it’s a guiding philosophy that shapes how students engage not only with photography, but with life itself. As a student, I found that FreshLens is far more than a photography program, it’s a foundation for self-discovery, personal growth, and future success. Through taking the Basic Course, I was immersed in real-world experiences that gave me both technical skills and creative confidence. FreshLens helped me explore photography as a form of self-expression that allowed me to discover my unique visual and written voice, and build essential communication and leadership skills which I continue to carry as I pursued my Creative Writing major. With hands-on projects, public exhibitions, and access to career and alumni panels, I began to see new paths for my future, even paths I had never considered before. As a first-generation, low-income student, FreshLens offered more than just education, it gave me resources, mentorship, and a community that believes in my potential. From helping me prepare for scholarships, and job interviews to boosting my confidence in pursuing new career fields, the program equipped me with tools that extend far beyond the classroom. The instructors are deeply committed. They create a space where questions are welcome, where confusion is met with support, and where growth is nurtured with patience and care. Most importantly, FreshLens removes financial barriers, ensuring that every student like myself, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive.”

“FreshLens opened doors that I otherwise would not have had access to. This program provided the resources that I needed to get a fuller understanding of photography. With the camera I earned after the Basic course, the access to editing programs, printers, lenses, and so on, I could develop my artistic voice without financial constraints. They gave me the agency I needed to build confidence and responsibility. From the day I walked through their doors in 2018, the FreshLens team assured me that they would always be supportive in any way they could. When I was applying to art school, they helped me with my portfolio and personal statements. Without this support, I wouldn’t have gone to and graduated from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 2024. In 2018, I was shown what incredible things could be possible with a camera, and I am eager to continue my journey with the persisting support of FreshLens. To have a community like this is special, and I am eternally grateful. ”