Youth Photography Program

 

Come experience national parks through the lens of youth

Join the National Park Service at the 2022 Experiencing National Parks Through the Lens of Youth photo exhibit on display at the White House Visitor Center. August 27th through September 10th, 2022, at 11:00 AM, President’s Park invites the public to visit the opening of the photo exhibit.

In July, President’s Park hosted their Summer Youth Photography Program where 19 high school students went through a competitive selection process to have an opportunity to participate. A local photography teacher, Nilda Keres, from Gaithersburg High School, taught students basic photography/editing skills, and students had the opportunity to practice those learned skills while exploring national parks. Youth also heard from professional photographers who shared insight on the business aspect of photography and how to capture a picture to tell a story.

In the National Capital Region, youth visited the National Mall & Memorial Parks, Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens, President’s Park/The White House, Mary McLeod Bethune House, Great Falls, Harpers Ferry, Clara Barton NHS, Glen Echo, the C&O Canal, Theodore Roosevelt Island, and Rock Creek Park. Students also had the chance to check out the Hirshhorn museum and the One with Eternity Yayoi Kusama exhibit displayed there.

This program was designed to help students in 9^th through 11^th grade explore the theories and practices of photography while boosting their awareness of the cultural and natural resources protected by the National Park Service. As student volunteers, they help to tell the stories of national parks through their lens.

 

President's Park Youth Photography Program students visit the Lincoln Memorial.

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How to apply

The 2022 application has closed. Students who are still interested in the program can apply early next year, 2023.

 

President's Park Youth Photography Program at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens.

NPS

What to expect

We will loan all necessary camera equipment to participants. Students will receive Student Service-Learning Hours (SSL hours). Photos taken by participants may be used by the National Park Service for park publications and other media purposes.

President’s Park will follow the current guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for COVID prevention throughout the program. Students and staff may be required to wear masks within the building and during instructional lessons. Proof of vaccination may also be required. Students will have access to masks, hand sanitizers, and disinfecting wipes.

Students are expected to have their own transportation to and from the White House Visitor Center daily.

 

 

Testimonials

“The President’s Park Program has not only deepened my knowledge of photography and sharpened my skills, but helped me understand the job of the Natural Park Service and the beauty of our parks.”
Alex, 2021 Photography Program student

“This program has allowed me to take images that represent each individual park and turn it into something nice. The images I created from each park came out to be my best work thanks to the best teachers and my peers who helped me through my photography journey.”
La’Tia, 2021 Photography Program student

“During this program, I have had once in a lifetime opportunities going to national parks, speaking with park rangers, professional photographers, and having inspiring teachers by my side willing to help and support me at anytime.”
Cecilia, 2021 Photography Program student