Crystal Bridges offers teen photo mentorship with artist Annie Leibovitz

Annie Leibovitz, Self Portrait, Brooklyn, New York, 2017. (Courtesy Annie Leibovitz)

A group of teens will soon get the chance to learn from world-renowned artist Annie Leibovitz during a photography mentorship program at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.

Teens ages 13-19 can register for the free program regardless of their experience level, and no special equipment is required.

The “Beyond the Lens” program is designed to help teens with their portrait photography skills, including everything from practical photo-taking techniques to how to exhibit their work.

The program kicks off on Saturday, Sept. 16 with a lecture from Leibovitz, whose work will be on display at the museum through January in a show that includes a new set of works made specifically for the exhibition.

Participants in the teen program will also receive mentorship from industry experts while working to create a project of their own to be displayed at the museum in November.

Registration is available online through 5 p.m. Sept. 15.


Program dates

Sept. 15 – Registration deadline
Sept. 16 – Kick off event with Annie Leibovitz
Sept. 30 – First meeting with mentor
Oct. 14 – Touch base with mentor
Nov. 3 – Photograph and artist statement submission deadline
Nov. 18-26 – Project showcase in the studio
Jan. 28 – Final exhibit reception