Community

We believe photography is a force for building connection and understanding, especially now, when our shared humanity feels both fragile and necessary. Our mission is to cultivate a community of lens-based artists who use their practice to bear witness, spark dialogue, and shape how we see the world. We actively partner with other photographic organizations. We welcome dialogue and conversation with all.

Classes

Our classes bring together photographers at every stage of practice to learn from one another and deepen their craft. Our instructors are recognized not only for their own work, but for their commitment to rigorous, supportive teaching. Classes are priced to honor instructors as skilled workers while remaining as accessible as possible, with plans to expand dynamic, sliding-scale pricing as we grow. Fall 2026 classes will be held at Filter Photo (1821 W Hubbard St, Suite 207. Chicago, IL 60622).

Dialogue

We are committed to expanding what documentary photography can mean and do. Through free public discussions, readings, exhibitions, and community events, we create space to interrogate photography's role in a rapidly changing world, one where the medium faces both the pressure of overabundance and the challenge of AI. We believe photography remains an indispensable tool for engaging with the social, political, cultural, and natural forces that define our lives. If there's a topic or question you think belongs in this conversation, reach out. We'd love to explore it together or connect you with a partner organization working in that space.