MyKingstonKids’ “Photography Now!”

The free Photography Now! program of MyKingstonKids is one of Ulster County’s most exciting artistic learning opportunities for youth ages 13-18. On Saturday, April 3, from 3-5 p.m., students who completed the fourth eight-week session taught by photographer Star Nigro will showcase their talents with an online photography reception and youth photo talk live on the MyKK’s Facebook page. It’s also time to register for the fifth session of Photography Now! classes, which begin on April 14.

The spring online youth photo exhibit features works for sale by these talented young photographers, who receive all purchase proceeds directly.

Students featured in the exhibit completed an eight-week program for beginner and advanced photographers, and the sessions were taught via Zoom. The young photographers worked with cell phones and cameras to learn creative photography techniques, styles and interesting history, while focusing on the artistic and technical applications of photography. In addition to Nigro, students learned from professional guest speakers and all participants who finished the course received a Certificate of Completion.

“It took me out of my comfort zone, and I didn’t think I’d enjoy photography as much as I do now after taking Photography Now!,” says Lily, a recent student.

The free program is hosted by the Ulster County Restorative Justice and Community Empowerment Center at 733 Broadway in Midtown Kingston. The fifth Photography Now! series of weekly sessions begins on Wednesday, April 14 at 3 p.m. Registrants will receive a private Zoom link to participate.

Students who want to register for MyKK’s next free Photography Now! sessions can register and learn more here. If you have questions about the program, please contact MyKK Executive Director Winston Queen at (845) 802-3748 or wqueen0360@gmail.com or Kim Mapes at (845) 802-7966 at the Ulster County Restorative Justice and Community Empowerment Center.

Please attend the online exhibit and support these students by purchasing their photography on April 3 from 3-5 p.m. at the MyKingstonKids Facebook page.