September 1, 2025
Summer 2025 Programming
Basic Class
We welcomed 12 new students into our basic class program this summer, representing 7 different Chicago high schools. In this course, students learn the fundamentals of photography, preparing them for our Advanced Class. The class was led by veteran FreshLens instructional leader, Sharlene Chapman along with former FreshLens student Vanessa Luna.
This summer, the FreshLens Basic class experienced an exciting first — an overnight camping trip at Glenhagen Farm. Our goal was to give students the chance to step away from the city, sleep under the stars, and develop new skills such as astrophotography, macro photography, and light painting. Students photographed in a wide-open meadow, explored the forest, and even waded into the creek, carefully balancing cameras in hand.
The trip was a big success, and our students loved the experience. Here are a few of their reflections:
• My favorite part was just being in nature.
• My favorite part of the camping trip was building the tents and sleeping in them.
• I was surrounded by friends and somehow made a couple too. I learned new skills and got lots of volleyball practice.
• I liked going on the hikes and taking pictures as a group.
• I'll remember being around the campfire in the group and sharing stories.
• Photographing sunset and taking photos of the stars was my favorite experience.
Please support our students by attending their end-of-session showcase during the Ravenswood ArtWalk at 4001 N Ravenswood Ave on Saturday, September 13, from 12:00-2:30 p.m. Their work is up for viewing and purchasing here.
CoGen
For the third summer, FreshLens received a grant from Innovation 80 to offer a CoGenerational (CoGen) photography program. Six advanced students were each paired with six advanced adult photographers, and together each pair designed and photographed a unique project.
This class is built on the idea that students and adults alike bring valuable perspectives to the creative process, learning from one another as collaborators.
In addition to exhibiting their work at the Ravenswood ArtWalk on Saturday, September 13, from 12:00-2:30, the class also created a book showcasing the projects they developed over the summer. The program was led by FreshLens Instructional leader, Sharlene Chapman, along with former FreshLens student and current instructor, Vanessa Luna. View and purchase their collaborations here.
FreshLens Alumni Dinner: Sharing Wisdom Across Generations
This July, 30 FreshLens alumni gathered for a special dinner that was equal parts reunion and mentorship. While the evening gave old friends the chance to reconnect, its deeper purpose was to create a space where rising FreshLens students could openly share their hopes and fears about taking their next steps after the program.
The younger students spoke about their uncertainties about pursuing further education, exploring creative careers, or simply navigating life’s transitions. The older alums, now further along in their own journeys, offered encouragement and practical advice drawn from their own experiences.
The event highlighted what makes the FreshLens community unique: a strong network where support doesn’t end with the last class or final project. By the end of the evening, students left not only with fuller stomachs, but also with fuller confidence, knowing they had mentors who understood their path and believed in their potential.
Hawthorne Race Course
For the first time this summer, we offered a photography program for all students whose families live at the race track in Cicero. Our class was led by first time FreshLens instructor, but old friend of the program, Kambua Chema and former FreshLens Student, Alex Nevarez. Students enjoyed a field trip on the water taxi followed by lunch in Chinatown.
One Summer Chicago in Englewood
One Summer Chicago is a city program that provides summer jobs and enrichment activities for young people ages 16–24. This year, in partnership with our community partner, A Knock at Midnight, FreshLens offered a unique photography program that collaborated with a One Summer culinary program. Instruction focused on food photography and portraiture, giving students valuable hands-on experience in both areas.
A highlight of the summer was a visit to Stephen Hamilton Studios, where students observed a professional photoshoot for a national food campaign. We also had a full day workshop from Stephen Hamilton’s assistant, Mitchell Petersen. Students also participated in a portrait workshop with Kambua Chema, further building their technical and creative skills. Nick Sinnott also shared his expertise about showing motion with food.
To showcase everything they learned, students combined their photography with the culinary team’s creations to produce an impressive cookbook — a true reflection of their hard work and talent.
This summer’s program was artfully led by former FreshLens students, Vanessa Luna and Peter Tovar, who returned as mentors and instructors.
