Who we are
The world doesn't just need another photographer.
It needs 8 billion of them!
Our goal is to enhance wellbeing, mindfulness, mental health, and environmental consciousness through the art of photography.
We start by inspiring as many young talented photographers as we can.
As technology, like AI, becomes a big part of our lives, it's really important for our kids to learn the benefits of real photography and use it as a medium of open and creative expression, stress relief, and a way to connect with nature.
'The Art of Seeing' Academy is a registered charity (CC62617) and was established by Ana Lyubich, a founder of the Excio Photo Community, in partnership with IMAgEN8, an Auckland-based charity whose purpose is to foster sustainable connections with New Zealand's natural environment through education and photography. We are very grateful for all the help from fellow members and passionate photographers - Tushar, Zhanna, Ann, Joy, and Russ.
Why do we focus on young learners? There aren't many places for learning photography, especially for kids and young adults.
It doesn't matter if they want to be doctors, lawyers, or anything else when they grow up. Knowing how to express themselves visually will help them cultivate a deep appreciation and fascination with photography, recognising that each photograph contributes uniquely to their understanding of the world and themselves.
A lot of classes out there are for grown-ups and often try to sell you expensive cameras and lenses. We don't think that's right. Photography is a skill that can help you in everything you do, so it's best to start learning young.
Photography is great for:
- Seeing the world in a new way. It opens your eyes to things you might not have noticed before, making you more aware and curious.
- Helping with tough times. When you're feeling things that are hard to put into words, taking photos can express how you feel and what you see around you.
- Finding inspiration everywhere and boosting creativity.
- Connecting with nature. Getting kids off their screens and outside is so good for them. It helps reduce stress, calm their minds, and has many other benefits.
'The Art of Seeing' Academy is based in Wellington, New Zealand, and we're here to show that photography is more than just a hobby. It's a way to make life richer and more interesting.
Who are our workshops for?
We run sessions for young photographers aged 8 to 18. To make sure everyone feels at home and can make friends easily, we often group participants by age.
Our workshops mostly take place outdoors, embracing the beauty of nature. This setting is chosen deliberately to foster a deep connection with the environment and promote overall wellbeing.
Camera requirements
Bringing a DSLR camera is highly recommended for participants, if available (they can be borrowed from family or friends for the day).
While we emphasise that remarkable photographs can often be captured on the simplest devices, the reality for beginners, especially children learning the craft, is a bit nuanced. The journey of learning photography is filled with trial and error, and using basic point-and-shoot cameras might not always yield the results they hope for, leading to potential discouragement. This is something we aim to avoid at all costs.
The advantage of using a DSLR, or any other professional-grade camera, lies in its ability to bring the young photographer's vision to life in a more controlled and precise manner. When children see the image they envisioned captured exactly as they wanted, the joy in their eyes is unforgettable. This moment of achievement is crucial - it not only lights up their world but also serves as a significant boost to their self-confidence. Such experiences are foundational in nurturing a lasting passion for photography. They learn about the importance of settings, framing, and the impact of light, which are harder to manipulate on simpler cameras. This hands-on practice with more advanced equipment provides invaluable learning opportunities, teaching them the intricacies of photography that go beyond just pointing and shooting. It's about understanding the tool in their hands and using it to explore their creativity fully.
Workshop fees
'The Art of Seeing' Academy operates as a not-for-profit organisation, seeking support from local entities, the government, and private sponsors to continue our mission. While we're fortunate to offer some of our workshops for free, thanks to generous support, our needs extend beyond just funding. We aim to ensure that every child, regardless of their background or access to photography equipment, has the opportunity to learn and grow with us. Your contributions and workshop fees are pivotal in this endeavour. They help us cover the costs of new equipment, organisational expenses, and staff, ensuring we can continue to offer these enriching experiences to more children.
One of our goals is to make photography an inclusive art form that requires no barriers in terms of skill level or equipment. Your support helps us move closer to this vision, enabling more children to discover the joy of capturing the world through their lenses.
Proudly supported
Some of our workshops are available for free so there is no charge to participate, thanks to the generous support from Hutt City Council and Upper Hutt City Council.
If you would like to sponsor a child or help us with donations, please use this form.