People do many things to express themselves. Some people write, while others sing. And some people may want to physically paint or dance to release their emotions. But how many people can truly capture something with their camera and have it speak a thousand words? The art of photography is something admirable and in the great city of Houston, there is a center that can assist you in perfecting and learning more about this craft.
The Houston Center for Photography (HCP) strives to keep education at the center of everything it does. Through community-based programs, workshops, lectures, portfolio reviews, and artist talks, HCP continues to encourage the artistic growth of the community by educating people about photographic techniques and professional practices. Facilities at the HCP's Learning Center include the John Cleary Library, the Critique Room, and the Digital Darkroom.
The Learning Center opened in 2006 and now offers over 300 workshops to the general public each year. Workshops are held on-site in the critique room and digital darkroom as well as off-site in the field or at the facility of one of HCP’ partner organizations. HCP’s Learning Center also offers a Certificate of Completion based on the workflow and creative process in photography. Students learn how to capture, edit, process and present their photographs while learning how to enhance their photographic skills, creative processes, and presentation.
Courtesy of Houston Center for Photography
HCP’s Access and Community Education (A.C.E.) programs build community and support the organization’s mission of educating and inspiring the public with the art and practice of photography. These programs, which include Picture This!, Girls' Own Stories, and Collaborations view the camera as a tool for empowerment. HCP wants to give everyone a chance to learn about photography. In spring 2014, HCP purchased an out-of-service ambulance and turned it into a Mobile Photography Education Unit called the Flash Drive. The Flash Drive allows HCP’s A.C.E. programs to reach new audiences by offering programs at various locations, including schools and community centers.
HCP also offers programs suited for younger individuals. The center’s teen photography classes introduce students to the use of the camera and composition tips to create a great photograph. Students will go through different courses and as they advance, they are introduced to lighting techniques, photograph editing, color management and printing.
Courtesy of Houston Center for Photography
Some other things that HCP offers include Summer Camps, Master Classes, and Family Day. Family Days are apart of A.C.E. and encourages people to come together regardless of age and embrace the fine art environment. The art of photography is constantly changing, and HCP’s mission is to help people understand and appreciate the craft.
For more information about the Houston Center for Photography, visit hcponline.org.
