Building Community for Kids Through Photography

Janet Pliszka
One of the standout moments from this summer’s photo camps has been the incredible sense of COMMUNITY that blossomed among our young photographers.

Just like any hobby, being surrounded by others who share the same passion can be a game-changer. This was so evident as I watched these kids connect, collaborate, and create together during our time together.

Learn how supportive environments can boost creativity, confidence, and collaboration in young photographers.  And discover ways you can build community for your child with photography.
The Power of Learning Together: It was amazing to see how much the campers learned from one another! Whether it was sharing ideas, giving feedback, or simply observing different techniques, this small but mighty community helped each camper broaden their horizons. They saw new perspectives, tried out fresh techniques, and grew as photographers—all because they had each other.

Creativity on Fire: What really thrilled me was how the community sparked creativity within itself. Seeing someone try something new would light a fire in others. "Hey, that’s cool… what can I do with that?" they'd ask, and soon, their own unique spin was born. The inspiration was contagious, and the results were phenomenal! At one point we were exploring slower shutter speeds with light painting, and they were having soooo much fun coming up with different ways to photograph the light. It went from simple lines and circles, to angel wings, happy faces and words.

Support When It’s Needed: In this community, there was also a beautiful support system. As the kids navigated creative blocks or challenges, they leaned on each other. Whether it was helping find a certain setting or collaborating on a shared vision, these kids were there for one another. It was heartwarming to watch.

Confidence Through Connection: And, of course, with this support and community came a boost in confidence. When kids feel seen and supported by their peers, it empowers them to take risks, explore new ideas, and believe in their abilities. Right from the very beginning of camp they knew they were in a safe space to try new things and embrace "mistakes" along the way. This confidence is something they can carry with them far beyond the camp.

5 ways to build a Photography Community for your Child:

  1. Join Local Photography Clubs or Workshops: Explore youth photography clubs, camps, or workshops nearby. These spaces offer structured environments where your child can connect with like-minded peers. And it doesn’t have to be youth-only—interacting with photographers of all ages can be just as enriching!
  2. Dive into Online Photography Forums and Social Media Groups: Online platforms are a treasure trove for connecting with other young photographers. Sites like Flickr, Instagram, or dedicated forums are perfect for sharing work, getting feedback, and making friends around the globe. We’re excited to announce that one of KPA’s missions is to host a vibrant community hub where kids can share their work and connect with other young photographers worldwide! Register as a KPA user to access the community.  
  3. Start a Photography Group at School: Encourage your child to start or join a photography club at their school. It’s a fantastic way to meet other students with the same interests, organize group projects, and even plan photo outings. Joining the yearbook club and volunteering for photography duties is another great option!
  4. Organize Photography Meetups: Why not set up some local meetups or photowalks? Whether it’s exploring a farmer’s market, heading to an amusement park, or going on a field trip to anywhere of interest, these informal gatherings are perfect for young photographers to share tips, learn from each other, and have a blast as a community!
  5. Encourage Participation in Photography Contests and Exhibitions: Contests and exhibitions are excellent platforms for your child to showcase their talent and meet other enthusiasts. These events are more than just competitions—they’re opportunities to connect, learn, and grow within a larger community of photographers.

5 creative and unexpected methods to foster a strong sense of belonging and connection:

  1. Collaborate with Local Businesses: Partner with local businesses like cafes, bookstores, or boutiques to display your child’s photography. This not only showcases their work but also connects them with a broader community, including other artists and customers who might share their interest in photography. The photo gala at the end of summer camp is one of my favourite moments.. and having these types of displays within a business would create the same pride.
  2. Create a Photo Exchange Program: Start a photo exchange program where your child and other young photographers can swap prints or digital images. This could be done locally or even internationally, offering a fun way to connect with others and gain inspiration from different perspectives and cultures. It's a pen pal program with a twist—kids exchange photos instead of letters! They can send images that capture their daily lives, special moments, or creative projects. This fosters connection and provides a unique insight into another child’s world, sparking new ideas and friendships.
  3. Host a “Photography Storytime” Event: Organize a storytime event where kids share the stories behind their favorite photos. This can be done in person or online and is a great way for kids to bond over their work, share experiences, and learn about the storytelling aspect of photography.
  4. Incorporate Photography into a Volunteer Project: Encourage your child to use their photography skills for a cause. Whether it’s documenting a local charity event, creating a photo book for a community project, or teaching photography at a youth center, this can connect them with like-minded individuals and give their work a meaningful purpose within a community that means something to them.
  5. Start a Neighbourhood or Family Blog: Encourage your child to start a photography blog featuring contributions from family members, friends, or neighbors. Each post can highlight different photographers, themes, or events, turning it into a collaborative space that brings people together as a community over a shared love for photography.


Let’s keep the creative energy flowing and help our kids find their tribe in the world of photography. Together, we can build a vibrant community where they can learn, grow, and shine!