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What happened to Zana Briski and the kids in Calcutta is nothing less than a giant love story. By expressing their connection with each other through art, they were able to share their experience with the world. Zana created Kids with Cameras to inspire like-minded artists and photographers to share their passions and talents with marginalized children around the globe. Our workshops are intuitive and individualized, based on the particular vision of the artist. Our goals are artistic excellence, positive transformation and ongoing support for the children.
Kids with Cameras has chosen each workshop leader based on their exceptional talent, commitment and connection to a particular community. We partner with local community organizations, NGOs, or faith-based groups who help coordinate the most eager and dedicated children and provide a meeting space. Our photography workshops focus on a small group of children ages 8-14. The initial workshop runs for a minimum of 2-4 months, meeting at least once a week depending on the children's schedules.
Each child is given a camera and taught the basics of photography and camera mechanics. Assignments that focus on specific subjects or photography elements provide a structure to discipline the children while encouraging them to be free to explore and discover how they see the world. Field trips are integrated as often as possible. For many, these field trips offer them the rare opportunity to venture outside their neighborhoods and limited experiences. Through editing and critiques, the children learn to think critically and to articulate their thoughts and feelings. The discussions provide a platform that acknowledges and respects each and every opinion, thereby building a sense of self-worth and respect for others.
The incipient workshop began in Calcutta, India with children from the red-light district. In 2004, Israeli and Palistinian children used photography to better understand each other's lives in Jerusalem's Old City. Haitian child domestic servants learned to make visible their unique struggles and perspectives in 2005. 2006 saw the launch of our Cairo project, which allowed children living and working in the garbage collecting community the chance to find the beauty in their lives and in themselves.
Proceeds from the sale of any artwork always goes back to the children for their education and well-being.
Please note that opportunities are not currently available for photographers or other artists at Kids with Cameras.
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